Importing goods into Canada has never been easier; easier being a relative term. The import process is broken into six steps: (1) preparing to import, (2) classifying the goods, (3) duties and taxes, (4) shipping, examining, and reporting, (5) getting good released, and (6) steps to take once the goods are released. These steps are complicated, each composed of a series of tasks that you must accomplish.
To get your goods imported, it is helpful to rely on import experts, such as ARGO Customs. ARGO Customs provides importing advice to companies and individuals looking to bring their goods into Canada. ARGO Customs import brokers are staffed at all major points of entry to assist companies importing commercial goods into Canada.
Getting a Business Number for Importing
To import your goods, you must obtain a business number (BN). The BN is the primary identifier that allows your company to operate in Canada and it only takes minutes to obtain them. Next, you identify the goods you want to import. The type of products you try to bring in will determine which tariff they are classified.
With this information, you can begin preparing your release and accounting documentation. You will need to submit this to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). At this point, you can retain the assistance of a customs broker, like ARGO Customs.
Declaring Goods
Always remember that all incoming travelers into Canada must declare all goods, including food, animals, plants, etc. Declaration of all goods is important since brining foreign goods into Canada could possibly affect natural habitats of animals, plats, and more. Even seemingly harmless products like fruit can cause potentially severe damage if infiltrated by insects. Any individual can use the AIRS system to learn more about certain food items, but ARGO Custom can complete this in matter of seconds.
Customs brokers can assist your business in obtaining releases for your goods, paying applicable tariffs and duties, maintaining records, transacting with the CBSA, and responding to their inquiries, and submitting the necessary documents and data. ARGO Customs can provide this assistance and help your company identify specific traffic categories, including applicable tariff rates.
Additionally, ARGO Customs can identify other hindrances to importing commercial goods into Canada. For instance, you need to determine the country of origin and ensure that the products you are trying to import are permitted in Canada. Moreover, certain goods are importable but subject to restrictions, regulations, or special permits.
ARGO Customs Can Help
Armed with this information, you can classify your goods and pay the applicable duties. Once the tariffs are paid, you need to ship your goods and report them. You can ship your goods via postal service, rail, marine, by air, highway, and courier. ARGO Customs can help you identify reliable modes of transport. Finally, you report your goods and obtain releases. There are two ways to release your goods, either with a full accounting of paid duties or release before payment. ARGO Customs brokers can assist you in both methods.
You also need to retain your import records for at least six years. ARGO Customs can help you track your paperwork and import your goods. Contact their team today to set up a business account.