Introduction to CARM

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is set to introduce the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) project, a multi-phased initiative designed to modernize and streamline the process of importing goods into Canada. CARM aims to facilitate a more efficient, paperless customs clearance process, enhancing the overall trade compliance through the implementation of an online portal and represents a significant shift towards a more efficient customs process.

It is essential for all commercial importers to register and familiarize themselves with the new system to ensure a smooth transition and to avoid disruptions to their importing activities.

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CARM Highlights

Online Portal Access

CARM will introduce an online portal, allowing importers and their representatives to manage their accounts, apply for permits and licenses, and make payments online. This portal aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency in customs processing.

Real-Time Information

The system will offer real-time access to importation data and financial transactions, enhancing transparency and providing importers with up-to-date information on their shipments and accounts.

Self-Service Options

Importers will have greater control over their customs activities, with options to classify goods, calculate duties and taxes, and submit corrections or adjustments through the CARM Client Portal.

Timeline for CARM Implementation

Starting October 21, 2024, the CARM system will be the official system of record for all importers to Canada, as the CBSA introduce CARM Release 2. To ensure uninterrupted access and to avoid any inconvenience during the CARM blackout period (October 4th, 2024, to October 21st, 2024), we urge all importers to complete their registration promptly. During the blackout, accounting privileges, account access, and new registrations for the CARM client portal will be temporarily suspended. Act now to secure your access and maintain smooth operations

What does this mean for you?

Every importer must be registered on the CARM portal and have posted their own financial security with CBSA. The financial security should be in the form of a bond, which Clearit can facilitate obtaining. Note that there is a grace period of 180 days from October 21st, 2024 (April 19th, 2025) to put the bond in place. Failing to register on the CARM portal by October 21, 2024 will result in delays importing. If you do not have your financial security in place prior to the expiry of the 180 days grace period you will face delays importing.

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Becoming CARM compliant in 3 easy steps

Pleas note: the CBSA’s CARM portal will be unavailable from October 4th 2024 - October 21, 2024 during their “Blackout period”

Step 01

Register for CARM today (before October 4th)

Click here to visit the CARM website and register For detailed step-by step instructions on how to register for CARM, download the CBSA guidebook here

Step 02

Delegate Access to Clearit

In order for your Customs Broker to continue servicing your import needs, you will need to grant access once they have made the request. Detailed instruction on how to delegate access can be found here

Step 03

Obtain a bond

With CARM, Importers will no longer be able to use their customs brokers’ security and will need to have their own in place with CBSA.

Up until October 21st, 2024, paper based bonds will be the only option available. While they have been around for many years, they are cumbersome to put in place and can take several weeks to activate with CBSA. After October 21st, and during the 180 day grace period, Clearit will be able to obtain and maintain your bond electronically through our API.

In Short

In short, as long as you have registered for CARM before October 21, 2024, you will have 180 days to visit clearit and obtain your own Customs bond. After October 21st, you will have 180 days to use Clearit’s own bond for a nominal fee (personal importers only).

CHARM Frequently Asked Questions

A. Importers, both resident and non-resident, who do not register for CARM will not be able to import into Canada as they do today. Clearit will not be able to act on their behalf, and all duties/taxes must be received by CBSA/CRA prior to the release of their cargo.

A. Importers, both resident and non-resident, who do not register for CARM will not be able to import into Canada as they do today. Clearit will not be able to act on their behalf, and all duties/taxes must be received by CBSA/CRA prior to the release of their cargo.

A. Importers, both resident and non-resident, who do not register for CARM will not be able to import into Canada as they do today. Clearit will not be able to act on their behalf, and all duties/taxes must be received by CBSA/CRA prior to the release of their cargo.

A. Importers, both resident and non-resident, who do not register for CARM will not be able to import into Canada as they do today. Clearit will not be able to act on their behalf, and all duties/taxes must be received by CBSA/CRA prior to the release of their cargo.

A. Importers, both resident and non-resident, who do not register for CARM will not be able to import into Canada as they do today. Clearit will not be able to act on their behalf, and all duties/taxes must be received by CBSA/CRA prior to the release of their cargo.