What is CARM?
CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) is an online platform used by the Canada Border Services Agency to manage:
- Import duties and taxes
- Importer accounts
- Customs broker delegations
- Financial security requirements
CBSA Compliance
CARM Guide for Canadian Importers
The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system is mandatory for all businesses importing goods into Canada. This guide explains what CARM is, who must register, and how Ezcustoms manages CARM compliance for every Eztrans shipment.
CARM changes how importers interact with CBSA by providing a centralized online system for managing import accounts, paying duties, and monitoring trade compliance. Registration is mandatory — without it, your customs broker may be unable to clear your shipments. Eztrans clients have CARM compliance handled by our affiliate Ezcustoms Inc.
CARM Explained
What importers need to know
CARM Client Portal
Through the CARM Client Portal (CCP), importers can:
- Register their importer account
- View import transactions
- Delegate authority to customs brokers
- Manage financial security requirements
- Pay duties and taxes electronically
Who Must Register?
Any business importing goods into Canada must register. This includes:
- Importers of record
- Customs brokers
- Trade consultants
- Financial security providers
Delegating Authority to Your Broker
In the CARM portal, importers must grant authorization to their customs broker to:
- Submit customs entries
- Manage import declarations
- Interact with CBSA on behalf of the importer
Financial Security
Release Prior to Payment (RPP)
Under CARM, importers must post their own financial security to have goods released before duties and taxes are paid.
Financial security bond
A surety bond issued by an approved financial provider — typically 50% of the importer's highest monthly accounts receivable, with a minimum of $5,000. Most importers with regular shipment volumes use this option.
Cash deposit
A 100% cash deposit held by CBSA in lieu of a bond. This option ties up working capital and is typically used by importers who cannot obtain a surety bond.
Ezcustoms & Eztrans
CARM compliance handled for you
Ezcustoms Inc. is a licensed CBSA customs broker and the in-house brokerage affiliate of Eztrans Logistics. Every Eztrans shipment includes integrated customs services.
Ezcustoms manages CARM portal delegation, HS tariff classification, customs entry filing, and duty payment coordination on behalf of Eztrans clients. If your business is not yet registered in the CARM portal or needs to delegate authority to a licensed broker, our team can guide you through the process.
FAQ
CARM — Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers for Canadian importers evaluating freight forwarding, China–Canada shipping, and integrated logistics options.
Is CARM mandatory for importers?
Yes. All businesses importing goods into Canada must register in the CARM Client Portal to manage their import accounts and authorize customs brokers to act on their behalf.
Do I still need a customs broker under CARM?
Yes. Importers continue to work with licensed customs brokers to prepare customs entries and manage import documentation. Under CARM, you must also explicitly delegate authority to your broker through the portal.
What happens if I do not register in the CARM portal?
If an importer does not register and authorize their customs broker in the CARM portal, customs clearance can be delayed or refused at the border.
Does CARM change how duties are paid?
Yes. Importers can now view and pay duties and taxes directly through the CARM Client Portal, and must post their own financial security to participate in the Release Prior to Payment (RPP) program.
Need help with CARM or import customs clearance?
Contact Eztrans to discuss CARM registration, broker delegation, or customs brokerage for your Canada-bound shipments. Our Ezcustoms team handles compliance so you can focus on your business.