Importing From Canada: What is the Process?

Importing from Canada is similar to other the process involved in importing goods from another country, except for one important aspect. Canada falls under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Before the importation process can be examined, it is vital to understand what NAFTA is.

NAFTA is a trade agreement between Canada, Mexico, and the United States that officially went into force on January 1, 1994. In an effort to encourage trade between the three North American countries, the agreement outlines clear rules for commercial activity. NAFTA allows the tariffs on products originating in one of the three participating countries to be waived when such goods were imported into another of the three countries. This means that in order to have the tariff waived, a NAFTA certificate of origin will need to be obtained.

In addition to the NAFTA certificate, you will need to go through the normal importation process. First, the good must arrive within the limits of the port of entry. After arrival, either you as the importer, or your hired customs broker must file a customs entry. There are several documents that are generally required. They include: a bill of landing, airway bill, or carrier’s certificate; a commercial invoice that shows the value and description; entry manifest form or entry/immediate delivery form; and a packing list.

After the completion of customs entry, the goods imported will be examined to determine the value, whether the good need to have special markings or labels, if the products were correctly invoiced, and that all other federal requirements were met. After the examination, the final assessment for duties owed is made.

This process can be complicated and difficult to understand. The customs brokers at Eduardo A Arecco CHB  understand the laws surrounding importation and can help you navigate the process. Contact us today for a free quote.