When you import your product to Canada, there is more you’ll need to know than properly filling out CBSA paperwork. You’ll need to be aware of the origin of your product, if there are any quota or license requirements for it, or if the product is even allowed into the country. Here is a list of some common blind spots you’ll want to cover before importing your product to Canada:

Sanctions

Not any good can be shipped into Canada. The CBSA has various sanctions in place against a number of countries. These sanctions prohibit trade and other economic activity with a foreign market and also restrict financial transactions. The Government of Canada has a list of sanctions available on their website.

Participating Government Departments / Other Government Department Controls or License Requirements

If your product is allowed into Canada, you must be aware of quota, license, and labelling requirements for it. This means checking with various departments in the government, such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, or Health Canada to name a few. You can find a list of Other Government Departments and Agencies here.

Post-Release Requirements

Even after your goods are released, there is still work to do, such as internal audits, identifying any overages, shortages or damages and ensuring the proper parties are advised.

Understanding the True Origin of a Product

The origin of a good is the country in which the good is manufactured, produced or grown. While your product may be shipped from the U.S., it does not mean that the goods are of U.S. origin. You must know as much about your product as possible and understand its true origin, or you may pay more duties than you need to on your product.

Duty Relief Opportunities

Knowing when your product qualifies for preferential tariff treatment from Free Trade Agreements is key! Ensuring correct classification and proper valuation is applied to your product will make certain that you do not overpay in duties and taxes.  Your customs broker can help you identify all applicable duty relief opportunities available to you, ensuring that you are getting the best value for your product.