What is Customs Brokerage and Why Do You Need It?

A customs broker is a licensed professional who prepares and submits documentation required for importing/exporting goods, calculates and pays duties and taxes, ensures regulatory compliance, and represents importers/exporters before the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

While not legally required for all shipments, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended. Brokers ensure proper tariff classification, compliance with regulations, and can significantly speed up clearance while avoiding costly errors, penalties, and delays that could impact your business.

With proper documentation, most shipments clear within 24-48 hours. Pre-clearance capabilities can reduce this to same-day. Delays typically occur when documentation is incomplete, goods require inspection, or there are classification/valuation questions. We work to minimize all delay factors.

Essential documents include: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/airway bill, and certificates of origin if claiming preferential duty rates. Additional permits or certificates may be required depending on the product type (food, health products, controlled goods, etc.).

Yes! We optimize duty costs through proper tariff classification, utilization of trade agreements (CUSMA, CETA, etc.), duty deferral programs, and duty drawback claims for re-exported goods. Many importers overpay duties due to incorrect classification or unawareness of available relief programs.