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The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) project is a multi-year initiative that will digitally transform how the CBSA assesses and collects duties and taxes on commercial goods imported into Canada. Once fully implemented, CARM will provide importers with access to their trade information and account balances, direct payment solutions, and trade tools that simplify their importing processes.
Since May 25, 2021, importers have been required to sign up and register their businesses on the CARM Client Portal (CCP). This can be done through a Sign-In Partner or a GC Key (using the Business Number (BN) and associated RM Account Number(RM) e.g. Import & Export Account (RM0001).
With this successful internal launch, enhanced compliance and validation activities are now underway using a new trade compliance tool.
On October 21, 2024, CARM will become the official system of record for imposing or levying duties and taxes. This will introduce:
Once fully implemented, CARM will simplify the overall importing process by:
Importers will experience extreme delays and extra expense getting goods into Canada after May 2024 if they don't register for the CARM Client Portal. Register ASAP.
Your customs broker needs access to your CARM client portal account; otherwise they can't pay duties and taxes on your behalf. Don't forget this important step.
Surprise! You've been using your customs broker's surety bond all along to secure your imports. Under CARM, you'll need your own bond. Need a bond? Contact our team and we will help you get a bond.
The launch of CARM is an ideal time to figure out what's current, what's outstanding and what you may not have to pay. It's an arduous process, but help is available.
Have a question about CARM? Our team of CARM specialists are here to answer your questions and can guide you through every step of the registration process. This is just one of the many services our Trade Consulting team offers today!
Email UsCARM introduces changes in the way importers and exporters interact with the CBSA. It requires the use of new electronic tools and processes, such as the CARM Client Portal, for managing customs declarations, payments, and other import-related activities.
By embracing CARM, importers and exporters can experience several benefits, including improved efficiency in managing customs processes, enhanced transparency, real-time access to import data, and simplified payment methods. It also aims to reduce errors and discrepancies in customs declarations.
Yes, CARM is mandatory for all businesses involved in importing goods into Canada. It is essential to comply with the new requirements and transition from the existing customs systems to CARM for seamless import operations.
CARM Release 2 is targeted for May 2024. If you have not registered and don’t meet the CBSA CARM requirements, your goods will be held at the border until a cash deposit it paid. This could mean lengthy delays and a serious financial impact to your business.
It is expected that Importers with registered accounts on the CARM Client Portal (CCP) will benefit with a 180 day extended period before being required to post financial security. Following 180 days, security will be required in the form of a Cash Deposit or as a Surety Bond.
Though importer security is mandatory (at the launch of Release 2 which is targeted for implementation in May 2024), importers have choices regarding the type of security they can obtain:
Security Bond
Importers using the Security Bond option are only required to post 50% of their highest anticipated monthly duties and tax obligation. Each RM15 (123456789RM0001, 123456789RM0002) must have a minimum of $25,000 posted for the surety bond option. A BN9 is able to post one bond for multiple BN15’s provided the security amount reflects the required $25,000 minimum for each BN15.
Cash Deposit
Importers who opt to provide a cash deposit will be required to pay 100% of the anticipated highest monthly duty and tax obligation.
Need help with a security bond?
No problem! Our team at A & A Customs Brokers can assist you in obtaining a pre-approved security bond that will ensure you meet the minimum requirements. It’s one of the many services we offer! Contact Us to learn more. (CTA - carm.inquiries@aacb.com)
As a trusted customs brokerage firm, A & A Customs Brokers has extensive expertise and experience in navigating CARM requirements. We provide valuable guidance and assistance in adapting to the new system, ensuring compliance, and maximizing the benefits of CARM for your import operations.
Our CARM specialists keep up-to-date with the latest changes and requirements, ensuring a streamlined transition and continual compliance for your cross-border trade. Here’s what our CARM Management services entail:
CARM Release 2 Playbook and Release 2 User Guides are now available on the CARM Google drive! These documents will help you understand CARM Client Portal processes that will Go-Live at Release 2.
The CARM Release 2 Playbook is a holistic end-to-end document of the CARM functionalities from a Trade Chain Partner (TCP) perspective. The intent is to provide clarity and context for business processes when transacting with the CBSA through the CARM Client Portal (CCP), while detailing considerations and scenarios that can help TCPs effectively and efficiently navigate this functionality.
The CARM Release 2 User Guides are detailed step-by-step guides with information about how to start using CARM functionalities. The intent is to help TCPs learn how to use specific functionalities and provide instructions on how to execute processes on the CARM Client Portal. The User Guides include screenshots to help you walk through these functionalities.
To view the CARM Playbook and User Guides, click here.
NOTE: All details pertaining to CARM R2 processes are based on the current information available at the time of writing. As this is subject to change, it’s recommended you periodically check in with the CBSA or your customs broker.
