Have you ever wondered what process your package goes through before you receive it? Many Canadians are also curious about how their items are cleared from Customs.

Don't worry; this blog will help you understand how your package can smoothly clear Canadian customs.

Key Takeaways

• Customs clearance is a process that involves verifying documentation and ensuring that all applicable duties and taxes have been paid before goods are released. If necessary, some packages may be physically inspected.
  
  
• Once a package is cleared by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), it means that it has been inspected and approved for entry into Canada.
  
  
• Prevent customs delays by knowing prohibited items, providing accurate product declarations, and using a reliable shipping service.

What Does "Clear The Goods from Customs" Mean

When a package arrives in Canada from a different country, it must be checked and cleared by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). This ensures all items follow customs rules by checking for banned items, their value, and payment of duties and taxes.

On that note, clearing goods from customs means your package has been deemed safe and legal to enter Canada.

Where Do Customs Clearance from The US to Canada Happen

Packages shipped from the US to Canada go through customs clearance at the Canadian port of entry. This process usually occurs at the customs office near the port where the packages arrive.

Although the US customs check the packages leaving the country, they must still go through Canadian customs when they arrive. The exact process applies to packages shipped from Canada to the US.

Remember, customs clearance is a standard procedure in all countries worldwide.

Documents Required To Clear Goods from Customs

CBSA is strict on inspecting packages that arrive in Canada. One crucial requirement they check is the item's documents. Complete and accurate documentation is essential to smoothly clearing your package from customs.

Otherwise, missing or incorrect paperwork can cause significant delays and additional fees.

To avoid such issues, ensure that you prepare the following key documents:

• Product Declaration. It's the most crucial document you need to provide, as it includes your product's description, value, and country of origin, which CBSA officers will check.
  
  
• Commercial invoice. This document details the value and description of the goods being shipped. It's mainly applicable to packages purchased online.
  
  
• Packing list. This paper outlines the package's contents, including quantity, weight, and dimensions, helping CBSA authorities verify compliance with customs regulations.
  
  
• Air waybill or shipping label. This vital document tracks shipment, containing sender and recipient details, shipping method, and proof of shipment.
  
  
• Customs paperwork. The CBSA may require you to submit additional paperwork that could back up and verify your product declaration. For instance, they may request an official receipt for your shipping item.

In short, always provide the CBSA with all the package details and any extra information if needed.

How Does The Customs Clearance Process Work

As mentioned earlier, customs must clear every international shipment before you can receive your item. Here’s how the customs process works:

1. Customs Officer Verify the Item's Documents

As discussed earlier, your package documents must be accurate and complete because customs authorities rely on them when inspecting your package. If they suspect any inaccuracies in your documentation, your package may be held for further investigation.

2. Physical Package Inspection

After checking the paperwork, the CBSA can open your packages as part of their inspection process. This ensures that the contents of your package match the product declaration and that no prohibited goods are included.

However, customs officers rarely inspect packages physically unless further investigation is needed.

3. Payment of Duties and Taxes

Once the goods have passed inspection, the next step is to verify your applicable customs duty and tax payment. These fees are based on your product's declaration.

You may pay your customs duties and taxes via the following:

• Online. For those eligible for Release Prior to Payment (RPP), you can pay your duties online through CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM).
  
• At the Port. If you don’t qualify for RPP, you can still settle your customs fees in person at the port when your package arrives.
  
• Customs Brokers. Hiring a customs broker can help you simplify your customs process. They'll manage your customs clearance and fees on your behalf.
  
• Shipping Carrier or Package Forwarder. You may consider using a shipping solution that handles your shipment, customs clearance, and payment. This can help streamline your entire shipping experience.

4. Release of Goods

Once all file checks are complete and the customs fees are paid, the goods will be released as long as there are no issues. After that, you can wait for your package to arrive at your pickup location or doorstep, depending on your chosen receiving method.

How to Avoid Delays in Customs Clearance

As noted earlier, customs delays can disrupt your cross-border shipments. Here are some ways to avoid unnecessary setbacks:

1. Familiarize with The Prohibited And Restricted Goods

Make sure to be aware of restricted and prohibited items in both the country of origin and destination countries to avoid customs issues. Shipping these items is a frequent issue that can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines.

For example, you'll face customs troubles if you want to ship a Prime Energy Drink from the US to Canada. While these drinks are allowed in the US, they're prohibited in Canada. So, shipping them would not be possible.

2. Accurately Declare Your Products

As mentioned earlier, inaccurate declarations can seriously affect your shipping process. So, it’s essential to be precise when completing customs paperwork.

For example, if you're shipping a smartphone, specify its brand and model (e.g., iPhone 14 Pro Max). Declare its total value and country of origin (e.g., the US), and include relevant details such as colour and storage capacity.

Remember that any declared value, contents, or origin mistakes can lead to longer inspections or penalties.

3. Use A Trustworthy Shipping Partner

A smooth shipping experience starts with choosing a reputable, reliable shipping partner. They’ll help ensure your packages are safely delivered and cleared by customs. Take the time to research the best shipping solution for your needs.

Here are the shipping options you can choose from:

• Direct Shipping. This is the simplest method. You order directly from a retailer, and they ship the package straight to your Canadian address.
  
  
• Package Forwarding. Your package is sent to a forwarding service facility in one country, which then ships to your Canadian address. This option often provides faster delivery, lower costs, and access to a broader range of international stores.

Remember that if you use a shipping partner that handles your shipment and customs clearance, you may not need to hire a customs broker unless you want to.

Ensure Cleared Customs with Shippsy

Shippsy is your top choice for an affordable but reliable cross-border package forwarding service. We provide Canadians access to stores worldwide, even those that don’t ship to Canada. As long as they ship to the US, we’ll ensure you receive your order!

Additionally, when we receive your packages at our US facility, we ensure we handle all customs documentation and clearance until you receive them successfully.

Final Thoughts

Getting your goods cleared from customs in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. Knowing the customs clearance process and working with a dependable shipping partner like Shippsy can ensure your shipment reaches its final destination smoothly.

So, whether you're shipping for personal or business reasons, knowing the key steps in customs clearance will save you time, money, and hassle.

Jay Alagon

Jay Alagon serves as the business manager at Shippsy, where he aims to provide Canadians with access to all US retailers without worrying about high shipping costs, long delivery times, and complicated paperwork associated with cross-border shopping. Outside of work, he enjoys practicing martial arts and woodworking.

Read all posts written by  Jayson Alagon