International Trade - PF Collins International Trade Solutions https://pfcollins.com Trusted. Preferred. Experienced. Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:32:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://pfcollins.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/cropped-PF-Collins-Logo-Icon-Only-No-White-Inside-HiRes-2023-2-32x32.png International Trade - PF Collins International Trade Solutions https://pfcollins.com 32 32 Steel Goods Imports Subject to Surtax Order https://pfcollins.com/steel-import-surtax-july-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=steel-import-surtax-july-2025 Thu, 03 Jul 2025 12:15:29 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=7877 Certain Steel Goods Importation Subject to Surtax Order Information c/o Government of Canada, Canada Border...

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Certain Steel Goods Importation Subject to Surtax Order

Information c/o Government of Canada, Canada Border Services Agency

Effective June 27, 2025, Certain Steel Goods will be subject to Surtax of 50% under a quarterly Quota basis. Global Affairs Canada (GAC) issues Import Permits on a per shipment basis up to 15 days prior to the expected date of arrival in Canada. The permit is valid up to 5 days prior and 14 days after the date of arrival in Canada.

GAC will be monitoring the quantities for quota utilization. Importers are responsible for consulting GAC’s online reports to track quota availability. CBSA will automatically apply the Surtax to all shipments without a shipment-specific permit, regardless of whether a permit is pending or unavailable at time of clearance. There is no limit to the quantities of steel that may enter Canada under General Import Permits (GIP), but such imports will be subject to the 50% Surtax.

It is important to note that valid permits only relate to this order and do not relieve any other customs duties, anti-dumping, countervailing duties, surtaxes, or taxes. Surtaxes and/or SIMA are stackable. End use tariff items under Chapter 99 will not remove the 50% Surtax.

Importers must provide the Import Permit or GIP along with Country of Melt and Pour (COM) information to obtain release of the goods into Canada.

Goods in transit up to June 27th are exempt and must provide proof by way of Bills of Lading.

Attached is a list of applicable tariffs and countries exempt from this order.

What This Means For You, The Importer

  • Check your Steel Products
    • If your goods fall under the tariff codes listed in Schedule 1, they are subject to quota restrictions and the 50% surtax applies beyond those quotas.
       
  • Apply for Import Permits Early
    • Shipment-specific permits can be requested up to 15 days before your steel arrives in Canada. Without a valid permit, the 50% surtax will be charged automatically at the time of clearance.
       
  • Track Quota Usage
    • Global Affairs Canada monitors available quotas in real-time. It’s your responsibility to check quota levels before shipping to Canada to avoid unexpected costs.
       
  • Prepare Documentation
    • To release your goods, you must present:
      • A valid Import Permit, or General Import Permit (GIP) if applicable
      • Country of Melt and Pour (COM) information
      • Proof of goods in transit before June 27th (e.g., Bills of Lading) if claiming exemption
         
  • Factor in Stackable Duties
    • A valid Import Permit only covers this surtax. Other duties, including anti-dumping, countervailing duties, SIMA measures, or additional surtaxes, may still apply.
       
  • Plan for Costs
    • If your shipment exceeds available quota or arrives without the required permit, a 50% surtax applies, significantly increasing landed costs.

Importation Quotas

Schedule 1 contains a complete list of goods subject to the surtax, specifically the steel products and their tariff classifications (HS codes) that are subject to the surtax or fall under the quota system. The value for duty is determined in accordance with sections 47 to 55 of the Customs Act.

SCHEDULE 1
Importation Quotas (Subsections 2(1) and (3) and paragraph 3(d))
Product CategoryApplicable Tariff ClassificationsQuota for each 3-Month Quarterly Period (tonnes)Maximum Share of Total Quota per Country
Flat7208.10.00; 7208.25.00; 7208.26.00; 7208.27.00; 7208.36.00; 7208.37.00; 7208.38.00; 7208.39.00; 7208.40.00; 7208.51.00; 7208.52.00; 7208.53.00; 7208.54.00; 7208.90.00; 7209.15.00; 7209.16.00; 7209.17.00; 7209.18.00; 7209.25.00; 7209.26.00; 7209.27.00; 7209.28.00; 7209.90.00; 7210.11.00; 7210.12.00; 7210.49.00; 7210.50.00; 7210.61.00; 7210.69.00; 7210.70.00; 7210.90.00; 7211.14.00; 7211.19.00; 7211.23.00; 7211.29.00; 7211.90.00; 7212.10.00; 7212.30.00; 7212.40.00; 7212.50.00; 7225.19.00; 7225.30.00; 7225.40.00; 7225.50.00; 7225.91.00; 7225.92.00; 7225.99.00; 7226.91.00; 7226.92.00; 7226.99.00186,85636%
Long7213.10.00; 7213.20.00; 7213.91.00; 7213.99.00; 7214.10.00; 7214.20.00; 7214.91.00; 7214.99.00; 7216.10.00; 7216.21.00; 7216.22.00; 7216.31.00; 7216.32.00; 7216.33.00; 7216.40.00; 7216.50.00; 7216.99.00; 7217.10.00; 7217.20.00; 7217.30.00; 7217.90.00; 7224.10.00; 7227.10.00; 7227.20.00; 7227.90.00; 7228.30.00; 7228.40.00; 7228.50.00; 7228.60.00; 7228.70.00; 7228.80.00; 7229.20.00; 7229.90.00; 7301.10.00; 7301.20.00178,51228%
Pipe and Tube7304.19.00; 7304.22.00; 7304.23.00; 7304.24.00; 7304.29.00; 7304.39.00; 7304.59.00; 7304.90.00; 7305.11.00; 7305.12.00; 7305.19.00; 7305.20.00; 7305.31.00; 7305.39.00; 7305.90.00; 7306.19.00; 7306.29.00; 7306.30.00; 7306.50.00; 7306.61.00; 7306.69.00; 7306.90.00117,40647%
Semi-finished7206.10.00; 7206.90.00; 7207.11.00; 7207.12.00; 7207.19.00; 7207.20.00; 7224.90.00152,38372%
Stainless7218.10.00; 7218.91.00; 7218.99.00; 7222.30.00; 7222.40.00; 7304.49.005,56891%

Exemptions

Steel goods originating in a country not listed in Schedule 2 to the Order Imposing a Surtax on the Importation of Certain Steel Goods are subject to surtax, even when exported from a country listed in Schedule 2.

SCHEDULE 2
Exempted Countries (Paragraph 3(b))
AustraliaEstoniaKoreaPoland
AustriaFinlandLatviaPortugal
BelgiumFranceLiechtensteinRomania
Brunei DarussalamGermanyLithuaniaSingapore
BulgariaGreeceLuxembourgSlovakia
CanadaHondurasMalaysiaSlovenia
ChileHungaryMaltaSpain
ColombiaIcelandMexicoSweden
Costa RicaIrelandNetherlandsSwitzerland
CroatiaIsraelNew ZealandUkraine
CyprusItalyNorwayUnited Kingdom
CzechiaJapanPanamaUnited States
DenmarkJordanPeruVietnam

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid unnecessary costs and delays by watching for these common pitfalls:

  • Assuming GIP Exempts Surtax
    • General Import Permits (GIP) allow unlimited importation, but all GIP shipments still face the 50% surtax. Only shipment-specific permits prevent the surtax, provided they are obtained in advance and within quota limits.
       
  • Shipping Without Checking Quota Levels
    • Quota fills quickly. If the quota is exhausted when your goods arrive, even if a permit is pending, the 50% surtax applies. Always consult Global Affairs Canada’s Quota Monitoring System before shipping.
       
  • Missing Permit Deadlines
    • Import Permits are valid from 5 days before to 14 days after the expected arrival date. Applying late or incorrect timing can void the permit, triggering the surtax.
       
  • Inadequate Documentation
    • Failure to provide the required Country of Melt and Pour (COM) documentation or proof of goods in transit prior to June 27th will result in delays or the application of surtax.
       
  • Overlooking Additional Duties
    • Even with a valid permit, you may still face anti-dumping duties, countervailing duties, SIMA measures, or other surtaxes. These apply separately and are stackable.

Let Us Handle the Details

Navigating quotas, permits, and surtaxes can be time-consuming and costly if mishandled.
Our experienced Customs Consultants can manage the process for you so you can focus on your business, while we handle the paperwork, permits, and compliance.

Further Resources

We’re Here to Help

PF Collins offerings a full suite of services to make importing and exporting easier and more efficient. If you have questions regarding the new Steel Surtax Order or importing/exporting in general our Customs Brokerage & Consulting Team would be happy to help!

Contact Us

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]]> Newfoundland & Labrador Seafood Takes Flight https://pfcollins.com/newfoundland-labrador-seafood-takes-flight/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=newfoundland-labrador-seafood-takes-flight Fri, 20 Jun 2025 18:30:14 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=7850 New Air Cargo Strategy Opens Doors to Europe and Beyond Thousands of pounds of premium,...

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New Air Cargo Strategy Opens Doors to Europe and Beyond

Thousands of pounds of premium, live Newfoundland and Labrador lobster took off from Gander International Airport this week aboard a FarCargo Boeing 757-233, destined for Madrid, Spain. The flight marks a major milestone in a bold new strategy to diversify seafood markets amid global trade headwinds.

Premium, live, cold-water lobster (the kind that’s earned a global reputation as the world’s best) were carefully prepped and packed by the Gander team before takeoff. Within hours, that same catch will be featured on menus in Spain, demonstrating how air cargo can bridge oceans and deliver premium Newfoundland and Labrador seafood to international buyers in record time.

This shipment is part of an initiative to expand markets globally and in response to the current global geopolitical climate. It is the result of more than two years of planning and collaboration between public and private partners — a model for what’s possible when different sectors work together toward a common goal.

Led by PF Collins International Trade Solutions, Whitecap International Seafood Exporters, Eastern Fish Markets Ltd., Happy Adventure Sea Products (1991) Ltd., the Gander International Airport Authority (GIAA), Allied Aviation Services Company, Hardy Fish Co Ltd., and other seafood industry leaders, the new seafood air cargo and market diversification project is setting a foundation for sustainable global reach. Closely aligned with the long-term vision of establishing Gander as a seafood export hub, the initiative provides vital and immediate support in process development, logistics coordination, international marketing, and strategic sales planning.

Darrell Roche, President and CEO at Whitecap, noted that the project was 2 years in the making, and the success of the inaugural flight was a proud day for everyone at Whitecap and its many partners.

“The success of this project is a result of dedication and perseverance by numerous companies and funding agencies who trusted us and believed in this project. Without the support of those funding agencies, none of this would have happened.”

Roche emphasized the role of close collaboration and geography in the success of the project.

“Together with PF Collins International Trade Solutions, Robert Hardy of Hardy Fish Co Ltd., the Gander International Airport Authority, and Allied Aviation Services Company, we have been able to leverage close geographic proximity to the supply and Gander International Airport and build new infrastructure that delivered these premium products to global markets in record time.”

He also noted that partners such as Eastern Fish Markets and Happy Adventure Sea Products are world-class seafood processors that work with elite harvesters who are catching the highest quality lobsters in the world.

“We have demonstrated to our European customers that they will receive the highest quality product from us. Without Bob Hardy’s persistence, experience and encouragement, we would not have stayed with this project. His support was instrumental,” Roche said.

Whitecap would also like to recognize their partner and customers in Spain that have been instrumental in guiding the project.

While the project’s start was considered a success, Roche emphasized that the real work starts now.

Thousands of pounds of lobster on board a Boeing 757

“With our partners, Whitecap will quickly expand the species we can ship live and fresh and the destinations that we will service as a collective group. Timing could not be better given the recent large increase in Atlantic cod quotas, so this species will be a big part of our future shipments.”

Mark Wheaton, General Manager of Eastern Fish Markets, underscored the launch’s importance in shaping the province’s identity in the global seafood industry.

“It’s a milestone for the Newfoundland and Labrador Lobster fishery – the beginning of finally selling Newfoundland and Labrador Lobster as ‘Newfoundland and Labrador Lobster’ and not having our lobster branded as someone else’s once we sell it. To the harvesters that continue to support Eastern Fish Markets with Grade A quality lobster, my hat is off to every single one. Without this product, this could not have been possible.”

Eastern Fish Markets specialize in premium Newfoundland & Labrador wild lobster sourced from first-class harvesters who ensure superior quality.

“Our team of harvesters source these animals from the cold, clean waters of the North Atlantic, which are considered to be one of the healthiest ocean habitats in the world. We are committed to community values, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability, emphasizing careful handling of live harvest to maintain quality.”

Raymond Collins, President of PF Collins, stressed the importance of speed and precision in maintaining that quality.

“When global trade shifts overnight, the only solution is to move faster. This project gives our seafood exporters a direct runway to premium international markets. PF Collins is proud to support the logistics planning, aircraft bookings, and freight forwarding documentation that help get our province’s top-tier seafood into the hands of global buyers quickly and efficiently.”

Roche added that this project is a powerful example of how public and private sectors can work together to achieve a common goal. The project partners acknowledge the valuable advice and support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Atlantic Fisheries Fund, the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, and the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture.

“Every participating partner played an essential role in turning this vision into reality, and the project stands as a model for future collaborations focused on sustainability, innovation, and economic growth,” he said.

While the inaugural flight was focused on lobster destined for the Spanish market, the broader strategy includes expansion into France, the United Kingdom, and eventually, high-value Asian markets like South Korea and Japan. This plan not only provides short-term protection for Newfoundland and Labrador’s seafood industry but also creates the opportunity for the province to establish long-lasting, resilient trade corridors for the years ahead. The consortium looks forward to delivering premium-quality, fresh North Atlantic cod from Newfoundland and Labrador to many customers across Europe this fall.

As the Gander seafood hub continues to evolve, the success of this pilot project marks the beginning of a new chapter – one where Newfoundland and Labrador seafood is no longer just ocean-harvested, but also runway-ready.

Arriving in Madrid, Spain

Check out an additional CBC Article covering the flight here!

We’re Here to Help!

PF Collins offers full Customs Brokerage & Consulting services for importing/exporting and can answer any questions or provide additional support regarding Canada’s Customs Tariffs. If you would like to speak with a member of our team, please visit the link below.

Contact Us

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]]> Canada-USA Trade Relations & Tariffs Update https://pfcollins.com/canada-us-trade-relations-february-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=canada-us-trade-relations-february-2025 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:50:56 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=7689 Canada-USA Trade Relations Information c/o Government of Canada, Department of Finance On February 2, 2025...

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Canada-USA Trade Relations

Information c/o Government of Canada, Department of Finance

On February 2, 2025 the United States administration imposed new tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) effective February 4, 2025.  The new tariffs are as follows:

  • 25% tariff on all imports from Mexico and Canada
  • 10% tariff on Canadian energy products
  • 10% additional tariff on all imports from China

Subsequent to these new US tariffs, the Canadian government has responded with a 25% Tariff on $30 Billion of goods imported from the U.S. effective February 4, 2025. The list includes products such as orange juice, peanut butter, wine, spirits, beer, coffee, appliances, apparel, footwear, motorcycles, cosmetics, and pulp and paper.

The initial list of U.S. origin goods subject to 25% duty can be found here.

There will be an additional 25% tariff applied to imported U.S. goods worth $125 billion. A full list of these goods will be made available for a 21-day public comment period prior to implementation.

We understand these changes are going to have a wide impact on many industries and supply chains affecting our customers. We recommend researching your supply chains and understanding the impact it may have on your business. Due to the ongoing changes to trade legislation, we suggest checking Global Affairs Canada regularly.

While this is a fast moving and fluid situation,  we have been working diligently to stay informed with the latest to assist you.  As more details become available we will provide timely updates.

Further Resources

You may also contact the Department of Finance if you have any questions:

Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs
The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
e: minister-ministre@fin.gc.ca

General Enquiries
Communications and Public Affairs Branch
e: financepublic-financepublique@fin.gc.ca

Support for Canadian Businesses

As a first line of defence, Canada’s robust system of economic support programs is available to help businesses and workers directly impacted by U.S. tariffs. This includes financing and advisory supports for businesses through financial Crown corporations and supports for workers.

Some of the supports that are already available include:

  • Trade Commissioner Service
    The Trade Commissioner Service helps Canadian businesses grow with confidence by connecting them with its funding and support programs, international opportunities, and its network of trade commissioners in over 160 cities worldwide.
  • Business Development Bank of Canada
    Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) provides financing solutions and advice to small and medium-sized businesses in all industries and at every stage of growth.
  • Export Development Canada
    Export Development Canada (EDC) helps Canadian companies of all sizes succeed in global markets with trade knowledge, financial solutions, insurance, equity and connections.
  • Farm Credit Canada
    Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is a dedicated lender for the agriculture and agri-food sectors and provides a range of financial products and services to support Canadian farmers and business related to farming.
  • Canada Small Business Financing Program
    The Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) makes it easier for small businesses to get loans from financial institutions by sharing the risk with lenders.
  • Employment and Social Development Canada
    The Work-Sharing Program helps employers and employees avoid layoffs, when there is a temporary decrease in the normal level of business activity that is beyond the control of the employer.

The government will closely monitor impacts across sectors and the economy, and will bring forward additional measures to support workers and businesses as needed.

The government is also taking steps to mitigate the impact of its tariff countermeasures on Canadian workers and businesses by establishing a remission process to consider requests for exceptional relief from the tariffs imposed as part of Canada’s immediate response, as well as any future tariff actions.

How Can Canadians Help?

Buying products made in Canada is a great way to support Canadian entrepreneurs, Canadian workers, and members of your local community.

When shopping, check products for “Made in Canada” or “Produced in Canada” labels, and consider buying them instead of other available products.

You can also choose to support your local businesses, producers, and farmers instead of larger shops.

We’re Here to Help

For more information, please contact us at
+1 800 763 2255, info@pfcollins.com, or

Contact Us

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]]> New Regulations for Steel Importations https://pfcollins.com/import-regulations-steel-importations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=import-regulations-steel-importations Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:39:11 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=7315 Trade Regulation Update: Steel Importations Information c/o: Global Affairs Canada & Canada Border Services Agency...

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Trade Regulation Update: Steel Importations

Information c/o: Global Affairs Canada & Canada Border Services Agency

Effective November 5th, 2024, steel importers must supply additional information in order to secure a release from Canada Customs for all steel importations covered under GIP80 & 81. Steel importers will be required to report the “country of melt and pour” to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

All steel importers must ensure the below documentation is supplied to their Customs Broker so they can report the necessary information on your behalf in order secure a release of goods. The importer should inform vendors to include all necessary information on the Canada Customs Invoice at time of shipping. CBSA and Global Affairs holds the Importer of Record responsible for correct information at the time of release. Failure to do so will result in penalties and fines.

To ensure a seamless transition, steel importers are encouraged to begin reporting the country of melt and pour before the official effective date (please see link below).

Necessary Documentation/Information:

  • Country of Melt and Pour (COM)  (through the Single Window Integrated Import Declaration (SW IID))
  • Exporter ID Number (15 digit CARM registered Exporter RM Account number)
  • Model ID Number (goods being imported)
  • Description of Goods in accordance with the SIMA regulations

What is Country of Melt and Pour (COM)?

Generally, COM is the original location where raw steel is first produced in a steel-making furnace in a liquid state and then poured into its first solid shape. The COM may be different from the country of origin and this information is usually available on a mill test certificate. The COM is not provided on Mill Certificates. Ensure your vendor includes the COM on the Customs documents at time of import.

What is the Single Window Integrated Import Declaration?

The CBSA’s SW IID is a release option available to Trade Chain Partners and enables importers and customs brokers to electronically submit their import declarations prior to the arrival of their goods at the Canadian border. This service simplifies the process and reduces the paper burden and cost of doing business. For now, COM information can only be provided by using the SW IID.

Related Links and Resources:

We’re Here to Help!

PF Collins offers full Customs Brokerage & Consulting services for importing/exporting and can guide you through the new reporting process and answer any questions or provide additional support regarding Canada’s Import Regulations. If you would like to speak with a member of our team, please visit the link below.

To learn more about the CBSA’s CARM Project implementation,
follow the link below or contact us with any questions.

CARM Contact Us

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]]> Latest CARM Update from CBSA https://pfcollins.com/carm-client-notice-sept-2024/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=carm-client-notice-sept-2024 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 19:09:45 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=7272 IMPORTANT: CARM Client Notice Information c/o: Canada Border Services Agency Effective October 21st, the CBSA...

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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.

We’re Here to Help!

The CARM Project will affect all importers in Canada & those importing into Canada. For more information, tools, and services that you’ll need to navigate this monumental change to how you import, please visit our dedicated CARM page below or contact us.

1-800-763-2255 or CARM@pfcollins.com
Further information can be found through CBSA here.

CARM Contact Us

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]]> CARM Launch Rescheduled to October 2024 https://pfcollins.com/carm-release-rescheduled-october-2024/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=carm-release-rescheduled-october-2024 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 17:59:55 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=6488 CBSA Phasing in CARM: Launching Internally for CBSA in May and in October for Trade...

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CBSA Phasing in CARM: Launching Internally for CBSA
in May and in October for Trade Chain Partners

Information c/o: Canada Border Services Agency

According to an April 19, 2024 News Release published by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Government of Canada, the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) digital initiative which was initially scheduled to launch on May 13, 2024 will now be rescheduled to launch for importers in October 2024.

The release states that CARM will launch internally at the CBSA on May 13, as planned, to advance the Agency’s compliance and enforcement efforts, however, the CBSA will reschedule the launch for trade chain partners to October 2024. CBSA has stated that this will ensure that the Agency can support partners as they start using CARM. Therefore, until the fall, trade chain partners will continue to operate as they have.

You can read the full official news release from CBSA regarding these changes here.

As of right now, PF Collins does not have additional information regarding this rescheduling and we are still learning what the potential impacts may be. We intend to provide further updates as information becomes available.

We’re Here to Help!

The CARM Project will affect all importers in Canada & those importing into Canada. For more information, tools, and services that you’ll need to navigate this monumental change to how you import, please visit our dedicated CARM page below or contact us.

CARM Contact Us

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]]> Marine Agents Your Key to Smooth Sailing https://pfcollins.com/what-does-a-marine-agent-do/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-does-a-marine-agent-do Thu, 28 Mar 2024 13:51:36 +0000 https://pfcollins.com/?p=6106 Canada’s approximately 243,000 km coastline is the longest in the world, and our marine sectors...

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Canada’s approximately 243,000 km coastline is the longest in the world, and our marine sectors continue to contribute significantly to provincial, regional, and national economies. Commercial Marine Shipping has long been interconnected with Canada’s history, from its environmental and cultural impacts to its effects on the urban development of major cities and rural communities alike.

International trade between Canada and the rest of the world is heavily facilitated by marine shipping – despite competing modes of commercial transportation such as road, rail, and air – and is commonly the only means of moving essential goods to remote island locations in Canada’s northern areas above the tree line. Estimates suggest that the economic impact of marine shipping’s role in facilitating international marine trade is equal to about 1.8% of the Canadian GDP, or about $30 billion in 2016.

In the past, the captain of each vessel was the primary representative of the shipowner in each of the ports that the ship, its crew, and its products travelled to. Over time, with the rise of international commerce and leaps in technology, it became impractical for captains to continue with this responsibility thus giving rise to marine agencies and marine agents.

In this article, we look at the responsibilities of a Marine Agent and the benefits of hiring one for your international shipping.

What are Marine Agencies & Marine Agents?

A Marine Agency (also known as a Ships [Shipping] Agency, Maritime Agency, or Port Agency) is the term used to refer to the appointed company that handles the operational, procedural, and legal requirements for a commercial vessel’s port call in a local port. The agency’s professional Marine Agent is an expert of the local port and will act as the representative of the shipowner, charterer, or ship manager and carry out all essential duties and obligations required by the crew of the ship, alleviating these responsibilities from the ship’s captain. Their main objective is to provide comprehensive support and assistance to vessels during port calls in their area.

Marine Agents are your ‘boots on the ground’ logistics experts who take care of the nitty gritty details in each port you enter!

What are a Marine Agent’s Responsibilities?

As the connection between vessel operators and port authorities, Marine Agents have many responsibilities when they are appointed as a ship’s representative, including:

Documentation Handling

  • Managing and processing the necessary paperwork and documentation required for port entry, cargo handling, and regulatory compliance (e.g. vessel declaration, cargo manifests, etc.)

Customs & Immigration Clearance

  • Submitting & managing required documentation and information on crew and passengers to local immigration authorities (e.g. work visas, permits, TRVs, LMIAs, etc.)

Port Services Coordination

  • Arrangement of essential port services such as pilotage and tug coordination, berthing, and mooring
  • Ensure the compliance of all safety regulations & security protocols, and comply with international standards and local regulations

Cargo Operations Management

  • Organizing and overseeing cargo operations to ensure smooth loading and unloading of cargo
  • Arranging dockside services like stevedores and linesman, and enforce proper protocols

Crew Requirements

  • Facilitating crew changes (meeting crew, arranging local transport and accommodations, etc.) and repatriation
  • Coordinating emergency assistance and medical care

Ships Stores/Provisions Services

  • Coordinating delivery of ships’ provisions such as fresh water and food, sourcing spare parts and supplies, delivery of bunker, and secure delivery of cash to Master
  • Supplying ship’s husbandry services
  • Managing and arranging ship needs, such as fuel, repairs, and maintenance
  • Arranging waste disposal, sludge removal, and handling of hazardous materials

Shipments and Ships’ Spares Handling

  • Expediting and arranging customs clearance for imported and exported goods
  • Organizing the supply, transport, storage, and handling of goods

A Marine Agent’s responsibilities are diverse and constantly changing depending on the type of vessel coming to port, the country they’re coming from, or the goods that they’re bringing. No two days are the same for a Marine Agent!

What Should You Look for in a Marine Agency/Agent?

Certifications & Licencing

Ensuring that the marine agency service provider you are hiring is fully-licenced and possesses the appropriate certifications that are necessary to meet industry standards should be a top priority when looking for a suitable marine agent. These certifications guarantee that your marine agent is qualified to handle the duties of your port call from arrival to departure.

Experience & Knowledge

As previously mentioned, Marine Agents are experts of the local port which they service. Marine Agents must be fully conversant with all appropriate local and national regulations and requirements relating to the port, area, or sector in which they operate. Marine Agents must also have a wide range of relevant contacts and good relationships with local suppliers to provide the level of service and support necessary to smoothly coordinate a vessel’s port call. Much of this compulsory knowledge is gained through years of experience in the industry and after the handling of thousands of port calls.

Communication & Availability

Marine Agencies and Agents begin relaying vital information between port authorities and ships (and vice versa) before a vessel has even left its home country. Constant & proficient communication is a skill that experienced Marine Agents have mastered to provide excellent customer service to a ship’s crew. A marine agency that values open communication, promptly addresses your questions and concerns, and keeps you informed throughout the entire port call is what you should look for. In addition, the availability of a marine agent in the event of an emergency or differing time zones should be 24/7; quick response times can minimize downtime and ease tensions if a problem were to arise.

Facilitating Smooth Sailing

Marine Agencies connect the logistics, correspondence, and compliance facets of commercial marine shipping and bridge the gap in communication between port authorities and ship operators. Marine Agents become essential intermediaries and representatives on the ground during a vessel’s port call and are a vital link in keeping the world’s oceans connected.

Although the job of a Marine Agent is dynamic, can change from day to day, and doesn’t allow for typical “9 to 5” working hours, those who enjoy breaking up the monotony thrive in a high-pressure environment position like a Marine Agent. Marine Agencies anticipate the needs of vessels and their crews entering a local port and tirelessly provide the services behind the scenes needed to ensure a smooth trip from start to finish. Their dedication and commitment ensure that vessels can navigate through ports all over the world with ease and confidence in record times!

Why Choose PF Collins as your Marine Agency?

We’re Experts in Our Industries

Choosing the right marine agency and marine agents is crucial for maintaining the performance, safety, and security of your vessel and its trips around the world. PF Collins has been providing services for all types of vessels operating in Canada for over 30 years. Our experience and established relationships with the local supply base ensure efficient and reliable port call management and vessel turnaround.

We are a “one-stop-shop” for importing and exporting. With Marine Agents, Customs Brokers, Import Raters, Compliance Specialists, Freight Forwarders, and Project Logistics Specialists, we bridge many gaps between an importer’s goods and their final destinations. Our teams work together to create an easy and efficient importation process from start to finish while saving you time and money, reducing risks and liabilities, accessing expertise and resources, and improving your customer satisfaction.

For more information about our Marine Agency, follow the button below. You can also fill out the form on our Contact Us page to get in touch with a member of our team!

Marine Agency Contact Us

The post Marine Agents Your Key to Smooth Sailing first appeared on PF Collins International Trade Solutions.

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