Preparation for Canada Import Regulations
Importing goods into Canada requires compliance with the country's import regulations. Canada import regulations set out rules and procedures necessary to ensure a smooth and lawful import process.
In accordance with import regulations, it is important for applicants to confirm that their imports comply with applicable laws and regulations. This includes ensuring the goods do not fall under categories with restrictions, such as certain armaments or munitions. To this end, applicants may also need to ask for authorization balance checks or other information.
Canada is a huge importing country. Principle trading partners beyond the USA include the European Union, China, UK, Vietnam, and Mexico.
To begin the importation process, an applicant must first obtain access to the necessary permits and authorizations.
This Guide reviews important things to consider when importing to Canada
Before importing commercial goods to Canada, the business or individual, needs a Business Number (BN). Issuance is via the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The registration for an import/ export account is rather simple and free of charge. The process is fairly quick and easy.
Businesses not in Canada may wish to become a non-resident importer. Read more about valuation and non-resident importers.
Gather information concerning the goods you intend to import. Import details include their country of manufacture, material composition, and use cases. This information will help determine the tariff classification or HS Code.
Determining the correct tariff classification number is an important step. The HS classification is one of the three main data points to determine the rate of duty.
Canada is among the many countries using the Harmonize System(HS). The first six digits are a common identifier across all countries. The following four are unique to Canada. The remaining numbers establish the duty rate. They are also useful for Statistics Canada.
Certain goods cannot import to Canada. This includes the obvious such as child pornography and hate propaganda. Less obvious items such not new mattresses and some resold automobiles.
Many goods are subject to permits and certificates from government agencies other than customs. The CBSA for administers import requirements on behalf other regulatory authorities.
Certain agricultural products may have quotas or limits on the amount that can import. It is essential to be aware of these allocation rules in order to avoid any complications during the import process.
For most shipments, the value for import to Canada is the transaction value. In other words, the amount paid for the goods is the value you should declare. Note that the "dutiable value" includes the cost of shipping and insurance. This is the CIF value. Read more about CIF and verify the correct value declaration.
Identify the country where your goods originate. This does not simply mean the country from which the product was ships from. Understanding the difference between where goods ship from and country of origin. The country of It may also include where individual parts of the product are from, as well as where the place of final assembly.
Upon completion of the import application, the applicant will receive a date confirmation from the relevant bureau or agency. Keep track of all correspondence and fees.
Goods originating from a country sharing a free trade agreement with Canada, may import duty fee. Read more about Canada's free trade agreements. The goods must qualify as "originating" under the wording of the specific trade agreements.
Meeting the requirements of the relevant trade agreement are necessary to benefit from a preferential duties. Imports must include a proof of origin.
Most duty rates in Canada fall into two main categories: Preferential rates and most favour nation (MFN).
Preferential tariffs apply to goods that quality via a free trade agreement. Most often, these 0% duty.
Most Favour Nation rates apply to goods from all countries except North Korea. They are the default rate for all goods that do not otherwise qualify for preferential treatment.
The Canadian Customs Tariff Schedule has two columns on the right hand side. Each column displays the preferential or MFN rates.
Duty calculation is via the HS classification, value and country of origin.
1. Determine the correct tariff classification number
2. Confirm the country of origin and applicable tariff treatment
3. Multiply the value for duty by the duty rate
A complete list of countries eligible for the above tariff treatments are at the beginning of the Canadian Customs Tariff. General tariff information and guidelines is available at CBSA memorandum D11, General Tariff Information.
Duty is often the least expensive part of total import fees. Other charges include sales tax (GST, PST, HST), brokerage fees, and carrier disbursement fees. Read more about the totality of Canadian Import Fees.
Examples of goods subject to excise tax include alcohol, tobacco, certain fuels and vehicles. Read more about non-tariff barriers.
The main modes of shipping to Canada include postal, air freight, surface (truck and sea freight) and courier. Contact Fill in form below. Ask to be in contact with our team for assistance.
Read more about ocean shipping to Canada.
Importers can deal directly with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to import goods. Alternatively, importers can authorize aLicense Customs Broke to act on their behalf. Read more about Canadian customs brokers. Whether or not you use a customs broker, the importer has the ultimately responsible. This includes the correct documentation, payment of duties and taxes, correct classification, origin and valuation. Use of a broker does not absolve the importer of compliance with Canada import regulations.
The most important document is a properly completed Canada Customs Invoice or its equivalent. The importer or customs broker submits Form B3 at time of import. This is the customs submission form.
The paperwork necessary for imports to Canada includes:
There are two options for getting release of your goods. With both options, you may prepare the release and accounting documents or use a customs broker. The CBS Aassigns a 14-digit transaction number to track the clearance process.
Furthermore, applicants should familiarize themselves with any additional guidelines or requirements of the GAC or other relevant authorities. This could include provisions regarding labeling, packaging, or safety standards. Staying up-to-date on these regulations ensures that the importation is without violations.
CBSA has great online resources with the most up to date forms and regulations.
Navigating Canada's import regulations requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the procedures. Importers must ensure that they have the necessary permits and authorizations.