Latest CARM Update from CBSA

IMPORTANT: CARM Client Notice

Information c/o: Canada Border Services Agency

Effective October 21st, the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system will become the official system for importers and other trade partners. This system will be the only system to account for goods and pay duties and taxes owed to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). If you import to Canada regularly, or you are a one-time importer, you must register for CARM and obtain an RPP (Release Prior to Payment) Bond. If you have already registered, you should have a seamless transition with limited to no interruptions. If you have not yet registered, please do so immediately. Registration is required prior to the CBSA CARM Cutover Period, please see below.

Cutover Period

CBSA has announced a Cutover Period from October 4th (4pm EST) to October 21st (3am EST). A cutover period is intended for CBSA to migrate systems and functionality in preparation for CARM implementation day. During this period, some CBSA legacy systems, such as the Customs Commercial System (CCS) and Customs Automated Data Exchanges (CADEX), will be retired.

The CARM Client Portal (CCP) will not be available during the cutover period. This means every Canadian importer must be registered prior to October 4th. Failure to do so will result in significant delays in the release of your goods.

Payment Information

As of October 21st, all duties and tax payments will need to be paid directly to CBSA. More information can be found here CBSA/payments.

CARM Registration

1. Register in the CARM Client Portal
   All importers must register their business in the CCS and delegate authority to their customs brokers to allow them to continue to transact business with CBSA on their behalf.
   
2. Obtain Financial Security
   All importers must post their own financial security with CBSA to maintain the same RPP as previously done by a customs broker on your behalf. Importers have the option between an annual surety bond or a cash security deposit. Due the sheer volume of bonds, it is wise to obtain your annual surety bond today.
   
3. Make Payment Arrangements
   CBSA is expecting payment directly from the Importer and holds the importer fully responsible. Importers requiring the services of their Customs Brokers for payment will need to make arrangements by contacting them prior to October 4th. Failure to remit payment on time could result in goods being held at the border until received.