International trade is full of opportunity — but it can also be full of paperwork, regulations, and uncertainty. At Maple Customs Brokers Inc., our goal is to make importing and exporting simple, transparent, and worry-free.

This guide is designed for businesses, e-commerce sellers, and individuals who want to understand the end-to-end customs process in Canada. Whether you’re bringing goods into the country or sending them abroad, we’ll help you navigate every step — from registration to release.

How to import to Canada

Importing goods into Canada involves more than just shipping products across the border — it requires compliance with Canadian law, accurate documentation, and careful classification of goods. Here’s a step-by-step outline of the process:

1. Register as an Importer

Before your first import, you’ll need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and an import/export account extension (e.g., 123456789RM0001). Maple Customs can help you apply for this quickly.

2. Classify Your Goods (HS Codes)

Every product imported into Canada must be assigned a 10-digit Harmonized System (HS) Code.
This determines:

• The rate of duty

• The applicable trade agreement benefits (e.g., CUSMA)

• Whether your product requires special permits

Our licensed brokers can help you identify the correct classification and ensure compliance with CBSA’s tariff schedule.

3. Calculate Duties & Taxes

Duties are calculated based on the HS code, country of origin, and declared value. You’ll also need to account for:

• GST/HST/PST on imported goods

• Any excise taxes or environmental fees

• Applicable duty relief or exemption programs

We provide tools and advisory services to help you estimate your total landed cost before your shipment arrives.

4. Prepare Your Documents

Key documents for import clearance include:

• Commercial Invoice or Canada Customs Invoice (CCI)

• Packing List

• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill

• Certificate of Origin (for trade agreement eligibility)

• Any required import permits or product certificates

5. Customs Clearance & Release

Once your goods arrive in Canada, your customs broker electronically transmits your entry to CBSA through the Accelerated Commercial Release Operations Support System (ACROSS).
After duties and taxes are assessed and paid, your goods are released for delivery.

Maple Customs’ digital clearance system connects directly with CBSA, ensuring faster release and fewer delays — whether your goods arrive by air, sea, truck, or courier.Impact on Leadership Effectiveness

How to export from Canada

Exporting from Canada requires compliance with both Canadian export controls and the import rules of the destination country.

1. Determine if an Export Declaration Is Required

Most commercial exports valued at over CAD $2,000 require an export declaration (B13A) unless exempt.
Exports to the U.S. usually do not require this, but must still comply with documentation requirements.

2. Check for Controlled or Restricted Goods

Certain products — such as technology, military components, chemicals, or food — may require permits from Global Affairs Canada or other agencies.
We can verify your goods against the Export Control List (ECL) and assist with license applications.

3. Prepare Export Documentation

You’ll typically need:

• Commercial Invoice

• Packing List

• Certificate of Origin (if claiming tariff benefits)

• Bill of Lading or Air Waybill

• Any export permits

4. Ship & Confirm Delivery

We coordinate with freight forwarders and carriers to ensure accurate declarations and confirm export reporting once your goods leave Canada.
Our brokerage ensures all records are properly retained for CBSA compliance reviews.

E-commerce Importing (LVS/FBA/DDP)

With Canada’s growing e-commerce market, sellers on Amazon, Shopify, or overseas platforms face unique customs challenges. Maple Customs specializes in handling Low Value Shipments (LVS), FBA inbound cargo, and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) arrangements.

LVS – Low Value Shipments

For goods valued under CAD $3,300, LVS processing offers faster clearance with simplified paperwork.
Our system integrates with major couriers and warehouses to automate this process.

FBA Shipments to Amazon Canada

We manage FBA-bound imports, including:

• Preparing commercial invoices and customs documentation

• Ensuring correct tariff classification

• Coordinating final delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Services

For international sellers who want a seamless customer experience, our DDP service ensures:

• Duties and taxes are prepaid

• Customers receive shipments without extra fees or delays

• Compliance is maintained under CBSA import rules

Conclusion

At Maple Customs Brokers Inc., we combine digital efficiency with personal expertise. Whether you’re importing your first shipment or managing a complex e-commerce supply chain, our team ensures your goods move smoothly, compliantly, and on time.

We handle the complexity so you can focus on your business.