Importing electronics into Canada comes with its fair share of challenges and opportunities. Whether you bring in smart home gadgets, laptops, or industrial tools, there’s more to the process than just clicking “buy.” Knowing what you’re getting into is essential, from HS codes to import permits and tariffs to compliance with Canadian safety standards.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help importers, especially small businesses, understand how to import electronics efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.

Are you importing for sale or personal use?

Let’s start with a simple question: Are you importing electronics for Sale or use?

  • Personal use: Less paperwork, but still subject to duties and taxes
  • Business or Resale: You must register a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and may also need to open an importer account with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

If you’re unsure how your goods are classified, check out our post on What Are Incoterms and How Can They Save You Money in Canada?

Know Your HS Codes

Every electronic product you import needs an accurate Harmonized System (HS) code. This code determines:

  • The duty rate
  • Whether additional regulations apply
  • If special documentation is required

For example:

  • Mobile phones (HS 8517.12): Often duty-free but subject to taxes
  • LED TVs (HS 8528.72): May have a 5% duty depending on the country of origin
  • Computer parts: Vary by item; misclassification is a standard error

Incorrect HS codes can lead to delays or overpayment. As we saw in Cleared for Success: Total Sport Solutions, getting classification right can save thousands.

What Duties and Taxes Will You Pay?

Most electronics entering Canada are subject to:

  • GST: 5%
  • PST/HST: Varies by province
  • Duties: Depends on origin and HS code

Thanks to trade agreements like CUSMA, many U.S.-made electronics are duty-free. But be careful—the origin must be proven with the proper documentation.

If you want to save, explore how Canada Duty Drawbacks might help you recover duties on goods you re-export.

Safety and Compliance Regulations

Canada has strict safety standards for electronics. Depending on the product, your imports may require:

  • CSA Certification or proof of compliance with the Canadian Electrical Code
  • For items with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular connectivity, you’ll need wireless device compliance certification from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)
  • Health Canada approval for anything with potential health risks

If your products don’t meet Canadian safety requirements, they can be detained at the border or destroyed.

Like food imports, electronics can be heavily affected by complex regulations and compliance requirements.

Importing From High-Tariff Countries? Plan Ahead

With ongoing global trade tensions, it’s more important than ever to understand how retaliatory tariffs impact strategy and the potential for extra costs when sourcing from countries like China.

You can also keep up with broader trends in global trade tensions impacting Canadian importers, especially if you’re sourcing from overseas factories.

Best Practices for Importing Electronics

Here are a few quick, actionable tips:

  • Work with a customs broker to avoid paperwork errors
  • Use the correct HS codes and check duty rates in advance
  • Make sure your supplier provides proper certification for compliance
  • Be prepared for potential shipping delays due to increased customs inspections on electronic goods 
  • Take advantage of trade agreements and duty relief programs

When to Talk to a Customs Broker

Importing electronics might seem straightforward—until your shipment gets flagged or your duties return higher than expected.

Clearit Canada can help you:

  • Classify your goods correctly
  • File import declarations
  • Ensure your compliance documents are in order
  • Minimize the impact of unexpected tariffs

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re importing drones, laptops, or electric scooters, getting it right the first time can save money and protect your business reputation. From classification to compliance, electronics come with layers of rules that are easy to miss without the right help.

Need help importing electronics into Canada? Contact Clearit today for a hassle-free experience. Your bottom line will thank you.