Prerequisites Before Importing
Before importing your goods, your company must be ready to act as the official importer at the time the shipment arrives.
Failure to meet this requirement may result in customs clearance delays and unexpected costs.
4 Simple Steps to Register for the CARM Program
Before anything else, your company must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Learn more →
The person who registers the company on the CARM portal will automatically be designated as the Business Acount Manager in the portal.
Learn more →
The CARM portal is the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) digital platform for managing import activities.
Learn more →
To speed up customs processing, enrolling in the “Release Prior to Payment” (RPP) sub-program is essential. This program allows goods to be released before duties and taxes are paid, provided an approved financial security has been deposited with the CBSA.
Learn more →
Step 1
Ensure Your Company Information Is Up to Date with the CRA
Before anything else, your company must be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Identify your nine-digit Business Number (BN), which is the same as your GST number.
Make sure all information is current:
Legal name
Legal address
Names of official directors
This number will be used to register your company on the CARM portal.
Step 2
Determine Who Will Be the Business Account Manager
The person who registers the company on the CARM portal will automatically be designated as the Business Account Manager in the portal.
The Business Account Manager will have full access to all portal features (adding users, paying duties and taxes, managing financial security, etc.).
This is typically someone in a leadership position within the finance or accounting department.
It is recommended to designate more than one Business Account Manager in case one of them leaves your company.
Étape 3
Register Your Company on the CARM Portal
The CARM portal is the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) digital platform for managing import activities.
Registration is mandatory for all importers.
The portal allows you to:
View account statements
Manage representatives
Register for CBSA programs, etc.
Links:
User Guide – Register My Business with an Existing Importer or Exporter RM Account
(Contact the CARM support office to register your account if you do not have the necessary information: 1-800-461-9999)User Guide – Register My Business Without a CBSA Program Account
Step 4
Provide Financial Security for Release Prior to Payment (RPP) Privileges
To speed up customs processing, enrolling in the “Release Prior to Payment” (RPP) sub-program is essential.
This program allows goods to be released before duties and taxes are paid, provided an approved financial security has been deposited with the CBSA.
Payment options:
Cash deposit via your GCRA (CARM) portal
Customs bond
A customs bond can be easily obtained with Axxess’ personalized support, helping you choose, complete, and submit the appropriate security based on your importing needs.
Link: User Guide – Provide Financial Security for Release Prior to Payment (RPP) Privileges