The basic steps in importing goods into Canada are:
- Research the goods you are thinking of importing. It is important
to make sure that the goods you are planning on importing are allowed entry
into Canada. There are various government departments that may have
regulations on the products you are thinking of importing. Certain
commodities require permits, licenses or other formal permission to allow
them entry into Canada. This stage would include calculating the actual
costs of importing -- freight, duties, taxes and other service fees.
- Set up an account. If you wish to avoid the trouble and paperwork
involved in importing you can set up an account with a broker.
(Set Up an Account) A broker is required
to have "Power of Attorney" to act on your behalf with customs.
- Order the shipment from your supplier. Generally you would make
arrangements for how the goods would be shipped to you at this time as well.
Let the supplier and freight company know who the customs broker is going to
be so they can let them know when and where they are coming into Canada.
- The goods are shipped. Once the goods are on their way to Canada
the freight company will inform the broker when and where they are coming
into Canada. The broker will make arrangements with Customs to release the
goods and to pay any duties and taxes that are owed.
- The goods are delivered. Once the goods have been cleared they
can be delivered to you. Depending on the credit arrangements made with the
broker you will either be required to remit funds prior to delivery or you
will receive an invoice in the mail.