Clearit.ca's Blog on Customs Brokerage and News Updates

You’ve done everything right: your documents are in order, your duties are paid, and your shipment has traveled far. But now, you’re facing delays at Canadian ports, and it feels like things are out of your hands. And guess what? You’re not alone. Port congestion happens when ports get overwhelmed by too much cargo coming in and going out, and it’s a massive headache for businesses, causing delays, disruptions, and extra costs. In 2023...

The import market is fiercely competitive, and to win, you have to play by the rules. In 2023 alone, Canada processed 19.9 million imported goods and 107.7 million courier shipments - by September. And because so many imported goods are processed, the Canadian government has mandated a whole series of regulations. Canadian customs regulations achieve several goals: they protect the country’s economic interests by applying duties and taxes to...

The import market is fiercely competitive, and to win, you have to play by the rules. In 2023 alone, Canada processed 19.9 million imported goods and 107.7 million courier shipments - by September. And because so many imported goods are processed, the Canadian government has mandated a whole series of regulations. Canadian customs regulations achieve several goals: they protect the country’s economic interests by applying duties and taxes to...

If you import clothing into Canada, you need to understand tariff classification. Tariff classification determines the duties and taxes on your imported goods. The Canadian government regulates its garment labeling requirements, with each piece of clothing needing a specific code based on its material, design, and use, so getting this right is a must. Proper classification ensures you pay the correct duties and helps move the customs clearance pr...

What is CARM?: Regulations & Compliance  The CBSA's new CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) project is changing how imports are handled across Canadian borders, making it crucial for businesses to stay ahead. This initiative, which goes into effect in May, 2024, introduces a mandatory Canadian Customs Import Bond for both resident and non-resident commercial importers, ensuring duties and taxes are efficiently mana...

Importing vehicles between the United States and Canada entails navigating a complex process fraught with regulations, documentation requirements, and financial considerations. Whether you're a Canadian importer or a U.S. exporter, the endeavor demands meticulous attention to detail and adherence to various guidelines. Transport Canada provides extensive resources covering transportation regulations, safety protocols, and security measures. W...

If you import manufactured foods into Canada, then you need a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) license. Starting Feb. 12, 2024, SFC licences will be automatically checked for imports of manufactured foods. Without a valid SFC licence, your shipment will be denied entry into Canada. If you’re working with a customs broker like Clearit, make sure to provide them with your SFC license number so that they can enter it on the import declaration....

Global Affairs Canada has updated the policies for importing restricted handguns into Canada to align with the amendments to the Firearms Act under Bill C-21. This Notice summarizes changes to the policy regarding the importation of restricted handguns, including eligible uses and import permit requirements. Any permit application for purposes other than those specified in this Notice will normally be denied. The new notice, called Not...

Canada has filed a notice of intent to challenge the United States International Trade Commission’s (USITC’s) decision to maintain duties on Canadian softwood lumber products, under Chapter 10 of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). In a statement, Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, said that the duties impacted the Canadian softwood industry. “And with the significant curr...

The Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a customs noticed stating that raw elephant ivory and raw rhinoceros horn are prohibited from being imported into Canada, unless the proper permits are obtained. These permits will be issued only for specimens destined for a museum or zoo, used in scientific research, or used in support of law enforcement activities. Permits are also required for the import of all items of ...