Summit Customs Brokers

"What does a broker do anyway?" is one of the most commonly asked questions that we get. Well, here is a brief look at at typical shipment to show what we do.

1. Documents received notifying us that a shipment is arriving or has arrived.

We make sure that the documents are in order. This includes getting the required permits, making sure the  licenses, certificates and any other special documents are there. If all the documents are not there we will either contact the supplier or client to obtain the documents. In some cases we can generate the documents ourselves.
2. Ocean shipments (before release)

If your goods are arriving by ship there are generally several more steps that we do before the shipment is released. This can include submitting the original Bill of Lading to the steamship agent and ensuring that all the fees have been paid. We have to confirm with the warehouse that the goods are available for customs release before applying to have the goods released.
3. Set up release with customs

Depending on where and when the goods are coming into Canada we will prepare the required documents or information for customs and submit it to them. Generally this is done by entering the details of the shipment and sending the information to customs electronically. In some cases we have to prepare a package with the documents and either courier or deliver it to customs ourselves.
4. Ocean Shipments (after release)

If necessary we will make the arrangements to have the shipment picked up at the warehouse and delivered to you. This includes faxing the warehouse and the cartage company. At this time we also check to make sure that the steamship and the warehouse don't have any reasons why the shipment can't be picked up. They may not have the Bill of Lading or there may be fees that have not been paid.
5. Account for Duties and Taxes

Once the shipment has been released the duties and taxes have to be accounted for within a prescribed time limit. This involves classifying each commodity in the shipment and determining the country of origin for that commodity. This information is transmitted electronically to customs.

6. Invoice sent to client

We generally prepare the invoice and other supporting documents within a day of the shipment having been released.
7. Other things we do
  • Retain all documents pertaining to shipments for 6 years.
     
  • Maintain the correct bonds and licenses for each office that we operate.
     
  • Pay the Receiver General the duties and taxes for each shipment.
     
  • Operate "non-revenue" offices at various locations to provide better service and to reduce your costs.
     
  • Keep current with changes made by customs and other government departments.
     
  • Maintain databases with current information on exchange rates, duty and tax rates and requirements of other government departments.