When exporting goods from Canada, most shipments valued over CAD $2,000 require an export declaration (B13A) filed through the CERS portal. However, not all goods are subject to this requirement. There are specific exemptions under which a declaration is not required, and instead, exporters may use No Declaration Required (NDR) codes.
At Argo Customs Brokers, we are authorized by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to file export declarations through CERS on your behalf. We can help you determine whether your goods require a B13A—and when they don’t.
When Is a B13A Export Declaration Not Required?
If your goods fall under one of the CBSA’s exemption categories, you may not need to file an export declaration. In these cases, you can notify your carrier using an NDR code to explain why a declaration is not required.
Please note: If you are exporting restricted goods to the United States, a declaration is not required—but the appropriate permit, certificate, or license must still be presented.
For full reference, these exemptions are outlined in Memorandum D20-1-1: Exporter Reporting.
List of NDR Codes (No Declaration Required)
| Code | Description |
| NDR1 | Non-restricted goods exported for consumption in the United States (excluding railcars and locomotives). |
| NDR2 | Non-restricted commercial goods valued under CAD $2,000. |
| NDR3 | Non-restricted personal and household effects (not for resale or commercial use). Excludes emigrant goods and permanently exported vehicles. |
| NDR4 | Goods temporarily exported using an A.T.A. Carnet. Carnet number required. |
| NDR5 | Goods temporarily imported with an E29B or Carnet, now re-exported. Number required. |
| NDR6 | Reusable commercial transport items (e.g., containers, skids, pallets, straps). |
| NDR7 | Goods exported by diplomats or embassy staff for personal/official use (excluding vehicles). |
| NDR8 | Personal gifts or donations of non-restricted goods (not vehicles or commercial items). |
| NDR9 | Military property of a foreign visiting force, temporarily imported. |
| NDR10 | Goods exported for repair or warranty work that will return to Canada. |
| NDR11 | Goods temporarily imported for minor repair/addition/processing under $2,000. |
| NDR12 | Goods used as ship’s stores by a Canadian carrier. |
| NDR13 | Non-restricted goods removed from bonded or sufferance warehouses for export. |
| NDR14 | Non-restricted goods that will return to Canada within 12 months (not for processing). |
| NDR15 | Goods exported in emergency or by DND under section 15 of the Export Regulations. |
| NDR16 | Other unique non-restricted exports (pre-authorization from CBSA required). |
Argo Customs Brokers Is at Your Service
Exporting goods from Canada and unsure if a B13 declaration is needed? Argo Customs Brokers is here to help. We’re authorized to submit declarations via CERS and ensure your shipments meet CBSA compliance—whether you’re shipping commercial cargo, gifts, or repairs.
Contact us today to avoid delays, penalties, and confusion at export.