Customs entry preparation
Your customs broker classifies the goods using the correct HS tariff code, calculates applicable duty rates (based on origin country and commodity), and prepares the customs entry (B3 or RNS entry for ocean; B3 for air).
Customs Clearance
How to Clear Customs for Import Shipments in Canada
Every commercial import into Canada must clear CBSA. This guide explains the five-step customs clearance process, required documentation, and the role of a customs broker.
Clearing customs in Canada involves five steps: your customs broker prepares and transmits a customs entry to CBSA, CBSA assesses the entry (and may examine the shipment), releases it, and duties and taxes are paid. Most shipments with complete documentation are released within hours. A licensed customs broker handles the process on your behalf.
The Process
Five steps to clear customs in Canada
Entry transmission to CBSA
The customs entry is transmitted electronically to CBSA via EDI (Electronic Data Interchange). For Release Prior to Payment (RPP) clients, goods can be released before duties are paid.
CBSA assessment
CBSA reviews the entry. The majority of shipments receive an automated release. Some are flagged for documentary review (K9) or physical examination (container stripped and inspected).
Release
Once CBSA releases the shipment, the carrier can deliver to your warehouse or drayage depot. A Release Notification System (RNS) message confirms release status.
Duty and tax payment
Duties, taxes (5% GST on import value), and any applicable excise taxes are due after release. Under CARM, importers with an RPP account can pay on a bi-monthly billing cycle.
Documentation
What documents does CBSA require?
Commercial invoice
Must include: seller and buyer name/address, accurate goods description, HS code (if known), quantity, unit price, currency, Incoterms, and country of origin.
Packing list
Itemizes cartons, weights (gross and net), and dimensions. Must match the commercial invoice quantities.
Bill of lading / airway bill
The carrier's document of title for the shipment. Required for customs entry — the broker needs the B/L or AWB number to file.
Certificates and permits (if applicable)
CFIA permits, health certificates, dangerous goods declarations, or other documents required for regulated commodity types.
Customs Brokerage
How Ezcustoms handles clearance for Eztrans clients
Ezcustoms Inc. is a licensed CBSA customs broker and the brokerage affiliate of Eztrans Logistics.
For every Eztrans shipment, Ezcustoms assigns the correct HS tariff code, calculates duties and taxes, prepares and transmits the customs entry, monitors CBSA release, and coordinates with our operations team for post-clearance delivery. Clients with CARM accounts and RPP status benefit from deferred duty payment on a bi-monthly billing cycle.
FAQ
Customs Clearance Canada — Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers for Canadian importers evaluating freight forwarding, China–Canada shipping, and integrated logistics options.
How long does customs clearance take in Canada?
Most commercial shipments are released within a few hours of the customs entry being filed — provided documentation is complete and the shipment is not selected for examination. Examinations can add 1–5 business days depending on the inspection type.
What documents are required for customs clearance in Canada?
Standard documents: commercial invoice (with accurate description, quantity, unit price, and country of origin), packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and the customs entry prepared by your broker. Additional documents may be required for regulated goods.
What triggers a CBSA examination?
CBSA uses risk-based targeting to select shipments for examination. Factors include importer compliance history, commodity type, country of origin, and random selection. Inaccurate or vague cargo descriptions increase examination risk.
How does a customs broker help with clearance?
A licensed customs broker classifies your goods with the correct HS code, calculates applicable duties and taxes, prepares and transmits the customs entry to CBSA, responds to CBSA queries, and coordinates release and delivery. Eztrans clients work with Ezcustoms for integrated brokerage.
Need help clearing customs in Canada?
Eztrans and Ezcustoms manage customs entry filing, duty calculation, and CBSA compliance for every shipment. Contact us to discuss your import.