The import/export number: your RM account
Before the CBSA will release commercial goods to you, it has to know which business is importing. That identity is a business number with an import/export program account, the RM account, attached to it: 123456789RM0001. Importers often call it their import/export number or importer number. This page covers what it is, how to get one, and the mistake that stops most first-time importers at the border.
- Format123456789RM0001
- RM accountissued by the CBSA
- BN9from the CRA or in CARM
- RM activationnear-instant in CARM
In short
What an RM account actually is
A business number (BN9) is the nine-digit identifier assigned to your business. On its own it does nothing at the border. Program accounts give it purpose, and each is a two-letter suffix on the same root: RT for GST/HST, RP for payroll, RM for import/export. Since May 13, 2024 the CBSA, not the CRA, issues and maintains the RM accounts.
Read the details
So 123456789RM0001 reads as one business, one import/export account. It is the legal prerequisite for any commercial import into Canada — every customs transaction, every release, and every Statement of Account in CARM is filed against it.
How to get one
Get a business number
Get a business number (BN9) if you don't already have one. Most new resident importers can get it inside the CARM Client Portal; [[/import/non-resident-importer|non-resident importers]] must get it from the CRA.
Add the RM import/export account
Add the import/export (RM) program account in the CARM Client Portal. The paper forms used for this in 2024, the BSF947 and BSF948, are [[/import/cbsa-forms|no longer in use]].
List every business name
List every legal and trading name that appears on your invoices and customs paperwork on the account.
Allow a few days
Expect same-day to a few business days for the BN9; RM activation in CARM is near-instant once the BN9 exists.
The mistake that stops most first-time importers
A GST/HST (RT) account is not enough — you specifically need the import/export (RM) program account. Businesses that have filed GST for years routinely discover this on the day of their first shipment.
RM business number FAQ
Is my import/export number the same as my RM number?
Yes. The import/export number, importer number or RM number all mean the same thing: your business number followed by RM and four digits, for example 123456789RM0001. The CBSA asks for it on every commercial import.
Is my GST/HST number enough to import?
No. GST/HST is an RT program account. Importing commercially requires an RM program account on the same Business Number, and having one does not give you the other.
How long does registration take?
Getting the BN9 takes anywhere from the same day to a few business days. Once the BN9 exists, adding the RM account inside the CARM Client Portal is near-instant.
Do I need an RM account to export as well?
Not always. Exporting to the United States, on its own, does not require CARM enrolment — CARM governs the import side. Pure US-only exporters with no controlled goods often need nothing beyond the Business Number. You will need a CERS account if you ship non-US goods worth CAD $2,000 or more, or if you hold export permits.
Can my customs broker register the account for me?
No. Your broker can transact on your behalf once you grant them delegated access in the CARM Client Portal, but only you, using your BN9, can register the business and designate the Business Account Manager.
Which business names belong on the account?
Every legal and trading name that appears on your invoices and customs paperwork should be listed on the account.
Keep going
The RM account is step one of the import setup. These cover the rest.
Keep reading
The next steps most people take from here.
RPP security
Since May 2025 you post your own security. Bond or cash, and how much.
Read →Importing
The whole path to importing commercial goods into Canada, in order.
Read →Import readiness
Check your import readiness: CARM, RPP security, classification, permits.
Read →Get a quote
Describe your shipments and we will connect you with a licensed customs broker.
Read →