If you are importing into Canada or shipping internationally, understanding customs regulations, duties, and logistics requirements is critical. Below are answers to common customs and logistics questions from importers, exporters, carriers, and freight clients across Canada. Ramsay Logistics provides licensed customs brokerage and freight forwarding services from Calgary and Vancouver, supporting shipments nationwide.
General Customs Questions
What does a customs broker do?
A licensed customs broker prepares and submits documentation required by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), calculates duties and taxes, ensures proper HS classification, and facilitates customs clearance for imported goods.
Do I need a customs broker to import into Canada?
While it is possible to self-clear goods, most importers use a customs broker to avoid delays, misclassification, penalties, or incorrect duty payments. As a licensed customs broker in Canada, Ramsay Logistics supports importers with CBSA compliance, CARM registration, and full customs clearance services. Contact our team to discuss your shipment requirements.
What is a CARM RPP bond and do I need one?
Under the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system, most commercial importers require a Release Prior to Payment (RPP) bond. This financial security allows duties and taxes to be posted electronically through CARM without delaying release. Learn more about CARM RPP bond requirements on our CARM Bond Blog.
What is an HS code?
An HS code (Harmonized System code) is an internationally standardized tariff classification number used to determine duty rates, trade measures, and regulatory requirements. Proper HS classification is critical to avoid penalties and overpayment of duties.
Importing Into Canada
What documents are required to import goods into Canada?
Common import documents include:
-
Commercial Invoice
-
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
-
Packing List
-
PARS documentation (for highway shipments)
-
Certificates of origin (if applicable under USMCA)
Additional permits may be required for regulated goods such as food, vehicles, chemicals, or controlled products.
How are duties and taxes calculated in Canada?
Duties are calculated based on:
-
HS classification
-
Country of origin
-
Applicable trade agreements
-
Valuation (transaction value)
In addition to customs duty, importers may pay GST, excise tax, anti-dumping duties (SIMA), or surtaxes depending on the product.
What happens if CBSA examines my shipment?
CBSA may refer shipments for random or targeted inspection. This may result in examination fees, warehouse handling charges, or delays. A customs broker coordinates with the exam warehouse and keeps the importer informed throughout the process. Learn more about the Ocean examination process in our Marine Container Examination Blog.
PARS & Border Clearance
What is a PARS number?
PARS (Pre-Arrival Review System) is a CBSA program that allows customs documentation to be reviewed before goods arrive at the Canadian border. This helps reduce delays at land crossings.
How do I track my PARS status?
PARS status can be confirmed through your customs broker once CBSA has processed the entry. You may also use our PARS Tracker tool to check release status.
How long does customs clearance take in Canada?
Clearance times vary depending on:
-
Accuracy of documentation
-
Commodity type
-
Regulatory requirements
-
Whether the shipment is referred for examination
Many shipments clear electronically within hours when documentation is complete and accurate.
Freight & Logistics Services
What does an international freight forwarder do?
An international freight forwarder coordinates the transportation of goods across borders by arranging air, ocean, rail, and trucking services. They manage carrier bookings, origin coordination, shipment tracking, and communication between overseas agents and Canadian importers.
While a customs broker focuses on regulatory compliance and duty calculation, a freight forwarder manages the physical movement of cargo. Ramsay Logistics integrates both services, aligning freight scheduling with customs clearance to reduce delays and storage costs.
What does DAP vs DDP mean in shipping terms?
DAP (Delivered At Place) means the seller delivers goods to the destination, but the buyer is responsible for import duties and taxes. DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) means the seller assumes responsibility for duties and import clearance as well as delivering the goods to your door.
What are storage, detention, and demurrage charges?
Storage charges apply when cargo remains at a warehouse beyond free time. Detention and demurrage charges apply when containers or chassis are not returned within allowed timeframes. These costs vary depending on carrier and terminal rules.
Should I get cargo insurance for my shipment?
While cargo insurance is not legally required for most shipments, it is strongly recommended for commercial imports and exports. Carrier liability is typically limited and may not cover the full value of goods in the event of loss, damage, or theft during transit.
Cargo insurance provides broader protection for ocean, air, rail, courier and truck shipments and can protect against risks such as handling damage, container loss, weather exposure, or general average claims in maritime transport.
For a detailed explanation of coverage limits, risk scenarios, and when insurance is most important, read our Cargo Insurance Guide.
As part of our freight forwarding services, Ramsay Logistics can also assist clients in arranging appropriate coverage for their shipments.
U.S. Imports, Tariffs & Trade Compliance
Do I need a customs broker for U.S. shipments?
For most commercial shipments crossing the Canada–U.S. border, a licensed customs broker is strongly recommended. While some Courier low-value shipments may clear without formal brokerage services, most commercial imports and exports require accurate tariff classification, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
Using a customs broker helps reduce the risk of:
-
Border delays
-
Incorrect duty payments
-
USMCA documentation errors
-
Penalties or post-entry corrections
Ramsay Logistics supports clients with both Canadian and U.S. customs coordination as part of our integrated freight and compliance services.
What are Section 232 tariffs?
Section 232 tariffs are U.S. trade measures applied to certain steel, aluminum, and derivative products based on national security determinations.
Do reciprocal tariffs apply to Canadian-origin goods?
Canadian-origin goods qualifying under USMCA are generally excluded from certain reciprocal tariffs unless specifically listed in updated executive orders or Federal Register notices.
What documents are required for USMCA?
To qualify for preferential duty treatment under USMCA, goods must meet origin rules and be supported by a valid certification of origin.
If you require a border broker for cross-border shipments, see our U.S.–Canada border brokerage page.
Working With Ramsay Logistics
Where are Ramsay Logistics offices located?
Ramsay Logistics provides customs brokerage and freight forwarding services from Calgary and Vancouver, supporting importers and exporters across Canada and North America.
How do I get started with Ramsay Logistics?
For assistance with customs clearance, CARM registration, freight forwarding, or tariff classification, contact Ramsay Logistics today. Our licensed customs brokers and logistics specialists are ready to support your business across Canada.