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Independent resource, not affiliated with the CBSA.

Your first import into Canada, made simple.Import, export and CARM compliance, one requirement at a time.

Answer a few quick questions and see exactly what applies to your business. Free, no account, no email.

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How it works

Every requirement up front, in plain language, before your goods reach the border.

  1. Answer a few questions

    Import or export, what you ship and how. Yes, no or not sure.

  2. Get your checklist

    Only what applies to you, each step linked to the official source.

  3. Do it yourself, or hand it off

    Every step can be done alone, or with a customs broker.

Your import checklistExample
  • Get a business number and an import accountRM account, from the CRA
  • Register on the CBSA's online portalCARM Client Portal
  • Post a security so goods are released before you payRPP security
  • Find the tariff code for each productHS classification
  • Declare what your goods are worthvalue for duty
  • Pay GST at the border, and claim it back if you are registeredGST/HST at import
  • Keep your paperwork for 6 yearsrecordkeeping

Yours depends on your answers.

Check if I'm compliantTalk to a customs broker

Your toolkit

Everything to move goods across the border

Compliance Checker

See if you're ready to import or export — CARM, security, classification, permits — and get a step-by-step plan with official links.

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Importing to Canada

The step-by-step path: business number, CARM, classification, duties, clearance.

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Exporting from Canada

What you need to ship abroad — starting with Canada to the USA.

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Duty & landed cost

Find the HS code and estimate landed cost with TariffCalc.

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What it takes to move goods across the border

Miss one of these and your shipment sits at the border.

Importing into Canada

Exporting from Canada

  • An export declaration in CERS before most shipments leave
  • Except goods going to the United States, the biggest exemption
  • A permit for controlled, prohibited or regulated goods, wherever they go

Not everything applies to everyone. The compliance check shows only what applies to you.

Do you need a customs broker?

Not necessarily. It depends on your goods and how much you ship.

Do it yourself if

  • Your shipments are steady, simple and repeat
  • You are registered in CARM and have posted your own security
  • You are comfortable filing your own accounting declarations

A broker is worth it if

  • You are not sure of the tariff code
  • Another government department regulates your goods
  • Your customs value involves related companies or royalties
  • Filing yourself would become a full-time job

Full disclosure: this site is paid when it connects you with a broker. Read the guides first, and ask for a quote once you know what you would be paying for.

Know what applies to you before you ship

A few questions, a checklist in plain language, and the official source for every step. Or skip straight to a broker.

Check if I'm compliantTalk to a customs broker