Most Canadian shippers know about paying customs brokerage fees. But did you know that you can self-clear customs and potentially save money on these extra fees?

This guide will help you through the steps to clear your package at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and take control of your shipments.

Key Takeaways

• Canada Customs self-clearance allows you to manage your shipment's customs process, saving you from paying additional brokerage fees.
  
  
• Self-clearing your packages at Canada Customs involves understanding customs rules, accurately declaring your items, coordinating with your shipping partner, and preparing the necessary documents.
  
  
• Failing to clear your package through customs may result in it being held by CBSA and could lead to paying high penalty fees.
  

What Is Self-Clearing Customs in Canada

Canada's self-clearing customs allows you to handle the customs clearance process on your own instead of using a customs broker. While brokers are experts who manage the complexities of customs for you, their services come with a brokerage fee.

Choosing self-clearance can save you money, especially on smaller shipments. However, it requires effort and an understanding of customs rules.

What Happens If You Don't Clear Customs

Failing to clear customs can result in your package being held at the local customs office. This situation can lead to additional administrative fees, delivery delays, and possibly the return of your shipment to the sender.

Additionally, if you don't clear your items, you may miss the chance to reclaim them, as customs may hold or even dispose of unclaimed goods after a certain period. Aside from that, you could face larger fines or legal action for not following customs rules.

How to Clear Your Package Yourself at Canada Customs

Successfully clearing your package through Canadian customs involves several key steps. Each step requires attention to detail and compliance with the regulations in place. Here's how to get started:

1. Understand The Customs Regulations

The first step is to get familiar with customs rules to avoid issues. The CBSA website offers documents and tools you can download, including:

• User-friendly guides on what you can and cannot send into Canada.
  
  
• Detailed options for paying for your package's applicable duties and taxes.
  
  
• An online calculator to help you estimate your product's duty and taxes.
  

Once you're comfortable with your knowledge of these customs rules, you can start to try self-clearing your shipments.

2. Accurately Classify Your Items

Another crucial step is knowing your items' Harmonized System (HS) classification code. This code is used for international shipments to categorize the goods for customs purposes. Note that this is also sometimes called tariff classification.

The customs office scans these codes to quickly determine your product's description, value, and country of origin. In short, it provides all the information about the items and the applicable Canadian tax you must pay.

3. Contact Your Shipping Carrier

After declaring your items and understanding the duties and taxes, contact your shipping partner about the self-clearing process. Whether you're using a direct carrier or a package forwarder, they can guide you through what's needed and how to get started.

Remember that some couriers may have extra rules for self-clearing, so it's a good idea to check with them in advance.

4. Pay Applicable Duties And Taxes

You must pay taxes and duties applicable to your package before it is released from customs. As mentioned earlier, the amount depends on your item's HS classification. Following up on that, here are the available payment methods you can use:

It was previously clarified that it’s always best to contact your shipping provider first to confirm their procedures for self-clearance packages.

5. Prepare Necessary Documents

Gathering the correct shipping documents is essential for clearing customs. So, to smoothly self-clear your package, you'll typically need the following documents:

• Product Declaration. As previously stated, it has the product's complete details and is the first thing customs officers check.
  
  
• Commercial Invoice. The seller must provide the detailed value or receipt of your online purchase item.
  
  
• Proof of Payment. A copy of your customs duties and tax payment receipt is also needed. This will be your proof that you've already paid your customs fees.
  
  
• Government-issued ID. Suppose a CBSA officer asks for your identification. It's best to prepare a valid ID, like a driver's license or passport.
  
  
• Additional Paperwork. Depending on the type of items you are looking for, the CBSA may require additional documents, such as special permits.
  

Ensure you have all the documents readily available to expedite the self-clearing process.

6. Let The CBSA Inspects Your Item

Once your package arrives in Canada, the CBSA will inspect it. Be prepared for this step, as it is a standard procedure for sending items to the country.

Typically, inspections are quick for regular shipments, but CBSA may also request a physical examination, which involves opening the package. If this happens, ensure you are available to answer any questions the CBSA may have regarding your shipment.

7. Get Your Package

After successfully clearing customs and meeting all requirements, your package will be released for delivery. So, you can just wait for it to arrive at your doorstep or pick it up, depending on your receiving method.

How Shippsy Can Help

Shippsy is the most affordable package forwarding service for Canadians. We help you shop from online retailers worldwide without breaking the bank. Our handling fee starts at just CAD 7.99, so there's no need for self-clearance or paying high brokerage fees.

Additionally, our service includes your package's customs clearance, so you only need to prepare for any applicable customs duties. However, if you still prefer to handle the self-clearance process, our friendly customer support team is always ready to assist you.

Final Thoughts

Self-customs clearance is undoubtedly a practical choice for Canadians looking to save more. While it can reduce costs, learning the process may take more time and effort.

Fortunately, carefully choosing a budget-friendly yet reliable shipping solution, like Shippsy, can save you time and money.

Aman Chopra

Aman looks after the content marketing department at Stallion Express. He is passionate about helping businesses grow by providing informative and up-to-date trends in the eCommerce industry. Outside the office, you can find him on the soccer field cheering on Real Madrid.

Read all posts written by  Aman Chopra