Freight forwarding FAQ

At a minimum, you will need a Commercial Invoice, a Packing List, Importer Information (Business Number), and the relevant HS Codes. Additionally, registering on the CARM Client Portal is mandatory for importing commercial goods into Canada. If you have not yet registered, COSHIP will guide you through the entire process, from CARM registration to final customs clearance.

CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) is the import customs clearance and duty management system operated by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). All businesses importing commercial goods into Canada are required to register for CARM to ensure a smooth customs clearance process. For first-time importers, COSHIP will provide full guidance on the registration procedures.

Customs inspections are conducted by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) either randomly or based on specific items or declaration details. They cannot be predicted in advance.

Customs inspections are conducted randomly by the CBSA. If your cargo is selected for inspection, it cannot proceed to the next step until the inspection is complete, and inspection fees along with other incidental costs will be incurred. However, if the inspection takes place within COSHIP's own warehouse, the individual inspection fee is waived.

Yes, Certain items such as food, pharmaceuticals, batteries, and chemical products may require special certification or be subject to import restrictions. We strongly recommend verifying these requirements in advance.

Importing commercial goods into Canada requires several steps, including importer registration, CARM registration, preparation of customs clearance documents, international shipping, bonded warehouse admission, customs clearance, and inland delivery. COSHIP provides comprehensive, one-stop support for this entire process.