Exporting to Canada expands your customer base and can increase your net profit by a significant amount. But dealing with U.S. regulations and taxes can seem complicated enough, and many American business owners wonder whether having to keep track of Canadian ones as well is really worth the headache. Fortunately, you don’t need to handle it all yourself: a customs broker who specializes in U.S.-Canada trade can help you navigate the import process and related documentation requirements.

canada nr1 program

Non-Resident Importer Program

Such a broker can also get you set up in Canada’s Non-Resident Importer (NRI) program, which allows you to obtain a Canadian Business Number (BN). The BN in turn lets you become the importer of record for customs purposes, and also enables you to register for the Goods and Services Tax (GST)/Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which may be a legal requirement in some circumstances.

Benefits of Becoming an NRI

Becoming an NRI simplifies the process of sending your products to Canada for your business. Even more importantly, it simplifies the process of receiving them for your Canadian customers. Your company will be able to manage shipping fees, customs clearance, import duties, and taxes. Because you control all the costs, you’ll be able to quote a price that’s directly comparable to what’s being offered in Canada. That means that your customers will be able to buy from you as easily as they buy from a Canadian supplier. All they’ll need to do is place an order, pay you, and receive the goods when they arrive. That’s how customers prefer it, and in fact many larger Canadian businesses refuse to deal with U.S. exporters who don’t operate this way.

Your benefits – aside from millions of new potential customers – include greater cost predictability, access to import paperwork, supply chain efficiency, and customer service. You don’t need to have any physical presence in Canada – no factory, no warehouse, not even an office with a mailing address. Contact us today to easily acquire NRI status and gain equal access to the Canadian market.