The World Customs Organization (WCO) created HS codes to streamline naming conventions and categorizations of commercial goods. In short, it’s a number code that identifies the product itself and the category it falls into.  HS codes are used by customs providers for a slew of reasons, mainly identifying the applicable fees, duties, and tariffs. As well as ensuring that the commercial goods are not banned or restricted from being imported i...

Early in the process of importing commercial goods into Canada, it is important to have an understanding of the information required by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Depending how far along you are in the import business, you may be familiar with Canada’s ACI eManifest program.  If you have not yet heard of the ACI eManifest program, we have previously covered the basics in a recent article: What is The ACI eManifest Program?  Her...

When running a successful importing business, it’s critical that you look for places in which you can streamline. Today, we’ll be looking at one of the programs put in place by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to help importers smooth out the importing process. Like with any kind of business ops, “streamlining” essentially means saving time and money, which can help your bottom line and push your business forward.  “Truly world-cl...

You’ve done your market research, sourced a product, built a business plan… now what? Most Canadian or non-resident importers will source their commercial goods overseas, as the cost of manufacturing is much lower. In turn, driving your profit margins!  This is a relatively tried and true formula, that has been employed by businesses -- small and large, alike -- to keep production/sourcing costs low and ensuring business viability. So, al...

Getting into the business of importing cosmetics can be extremely profitable, as the margins are quite generous. Like with any other type of product imports, there are certain specifications for imports that must be complied with.  As per a study by retail tech company, Vend HQ: “Beverage manufacturers, jewelry stores, and cosmetics had some of the highest profit margins, with 65.74%, 62.53%, and 58.14%, respectively.”  So, it’s cer...