Import Compliance
Most goods imported into Canada do not require a specific import license — but all commercial importers need a CRA import account, and some product categories require additional permits.
Most goods do not require a specific import license to enter Canada. However, all commercial importers must have a Business Number (BN) with an import/export account from the Canada Revenue Agency. Certain product categories — including controlled goods, agricultural products, and quota-controlled textiles — require additional permits from the relevant federal authority.
The General Rule
All businesses importing commercial goods into Canada need a Business Number (BN) with an RM (import/export) sub-account from the Canada Revenue Agency. This is not a license — it is a registration that allows CBSA to link your imports to your business.
Register at canada.ca/cra-registration or call CRA Business Enquiries at 1-800-959-5525.
Certain goods require a specific import permit from a federal authority before they can enter Canada. These are product-specific requirements, not general business licenses. Your customs broker can determine whether your goods fall into a controlled category.
Restricted Goods
These categories commonly require additional permits or CBSA authorization. Consult your customs broker to confirm whether your specific goods are affected.
| Product Category | Governing Authority |
|---|---|
| Firearms and weapons | Public Safety Canada |
| Agricultural products and food | Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) |
| Controlled drugs and substances | Health Canada |
| Textiles and apparel (quota) | Global Affairs Canada |
| Goods on EIPA control lists | Global Affairs Canada |
| CITES-listed species (wildlife) | Environment and Climate Change Canada |
Customs Brokerage
Ezcustoms Inc. is a licensed Canadian customs broker and the brokerage affiliate of Eztrans Logistics.
For every Eztrans shipment, Ezcustoms determines the correct HS code, calculates applicable duty rates, identifies whether permits are required for your specific goods, and files the CBSA customs entry. If your goods require a CFIA permit, Health Canada authorization, or other federal clearance, our team can advise on the process.
FAQ
Clear answers for Canadian importers evaluating freight forwarding, China–Canada shipping, and integrated logistics options.
Most goods do not require a specific import license. You do need a Business Number (BN) with an import/export account from the Canada Revenue Agency to import commercial shipments. Some product categories — including controlled goods, certain food products, and quota-controlled textiles — require additional permits.
Register for a Business Number (BN) through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). You can add an import/export account (RM) to an existing BN or register both at the same time at canada.ca/cra-registration.
Products that may require import permits include: firearms and weapons (Public Safety Canada), certain agricultural products and food items (CFIA), controlled drugs and substances (Health Canada), quota-controlled textiles and apparel, and goods on the Export and Import Permits Act (EIPA) control lists.
A licensed customs broker classifies your goods with the correct HS code, determines applicable duty rates, prepares and files the customs entry with CBSA, and advises on whether your specific goods require permits or additional documentation.
Contact Eztrans to discuss customs requirements, import account setup, and permit requirements for your specific goods.