A new reference document for HS codes and classifications for critical medical supplies has been released. As such, we’ll be doing a quick overview of the document! 

We will also briefly touch on Canada’s Interim Order Respecting the Importation and Sale of Medical Devices for Use in Relation to COVID-19. As the name suggests, it provides medical device manufacturers and importers with certain exemptions in order to increase the availability of these goods.

We’ve been covering a few different topics relating to the pandemic so far. If you’re interested, here is some recommended reading.

You may have already seen that we have been covering a few hot topics relating to COVID-19 as the situation develops. Here are a few other pieces we’ve put out on the topic:

COVID-19 & Importing Topics: 

6 Imported Goods Actually Doing Really Well During the Pandemic

COVID-19: Important Information Regarding The Importation Of Medical Supplies

Canadian Imports and Navigating COVID-19: Q&A With Founder & President Adam Lewis

In partnership with WHO, WCO developed a quick reference document for HS classification codes for medical devices — with the goal of helping importers and customs professionals streamline the process of moving medical devices.

The medical supplies covered in the document

The medical goods referenced in this document focuses mostly on medical supplies directly needed to treat COVID-19. You’ll note that there are 8 different categories listed.

importing medical supplies

  • Test kits and other goods used for diagnostics: test kits, swabs, vials, etc.
  • Protective garments: masks, gloves, face shields, hair nets, etc. 
  • Disinfectants and sterilization products: alcohol solution, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, etc. 
  • Oxygen therapy equipment: medical ventilators, continuous air pressure units, etc.
  • Other medical devices: CT scanners, ultrasound equipment, intubation kits, etc.
  • Other medical consumables: urine bags, lubricant jelly, paper bed sheets, etc. 
  • Vehicles: wheelchairs, etc. 
  • Other: medical/surgical furniture, medical gas cylinders, etc.

 

WHO and WCO have stated that this document has been made to help importers navigate the customs system and move goods more quickly, however they do recommend contacting the country’s customs authority (in Canada’s case, CBSA) to ensure the correct documentation is prepared.

Read the reference document here: HS Classification Reference for COVID-19 Medical Supplies 

Secondly, the Interim Order Respecting the Importation and Sale of Medical Devices for Use in Relation to COVID-19

Health Canada has enacted an order in which they lay out a framework to allow expedited authorization for the sale and import of medical supplies, devices, and goods. “…To deal with the current significant risk of COVID-19 to the health and safety of Canadians.”

Authorization for import or sale under this order is only valid for the time the order is in effect. However, depending on Canada’s need for supplies, the authorization may be subject to a renewal.

The order provides a process for expedited authorization for 3 types of goods/devices:

  • COVID-19 medical devices that have not been licensed in Canada
  • COVID-19-related uses for existing licensed devices
  • COVID-19 medical devices that leverage the authorization of a device from a trusted foreign regulator

 

 

Clearit has been partnering closely with our clients to ensure that they can continue to move goods into Canada throughout the crisis. 

This is certainly a difficult time for many businesses, so importing with increased caution is necessary. If you have any questions on the importing process for medical devices or otherwise, you can start a conversation with us here!