CARM: CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management

The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) initiative is a major change to how duties and taxes are collected for goods imported into Canada. As part of CARM Release 3, launched on October 21, 2024, several critical changes will occur for importers and customs brokers.

CARM Implementation Updates

Stay informed on the latest changes, fixes, and challenges in the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system.

As CBSA shifts customs compliance to a more digital and importer-focused system, new issues can impact duties, taxes, and your financial statements. We’re here to provide regular, transparent updates, empowering your team to stay ahead of changes and confidently navigate the evolving CARM landscape.

What You’ll Get:

• Timely Insights: These updates highlight current issues and their resolutions.
• Proactive Alerts: Stay in the loop with essential information on HS codes, tariffs, excise, and GST.
• Clear Steps Forward: Easy-to-follow guidance helps you handle CARM’s new requirements efficiently.

By staying informed, you’ll protect your bottom line and ensure compliance without unexpected disruptions. Explore our latest updates and secure your importing success with transparency and confidence.

Registering on the CARM Client Portal (CCP)

All importers are required to register on the CARM Client Portal (CCP). This portal will centralize tasks such as making payments, managing accounts, and delegating authority to customs brokers. Importers need to familiarize themselves with the portal and delegate authority to their brokers, allowing them to continue handling customs releases and accounting tasks on behalf of the importer.

Roles & Responsibilities - Importer vs Customs Broker

While brokers can still help manage customs entries, importers now have a larger role in financial security and account management. Importers will no longer be able to rely on their broker’s financial security and must post their own surety bond or cash deposit in order to participate in the Release Prior to Payment (RPP) program. Importers are now responsible for payments to CBSA for their import account balances.

Financial Security

By April 2025, importers must post financial security in the form of a surety bond or cash deposit through the CCP. This amount is calculated based on 50% of their highest monthly accounts receivable. There is a 180-day transition period to meet this requirement starting from October 2024.

Commercial Accounting Declaration (CAD)

The CAD will replace the B3 customs coding form and the B2 adjustment form, modernizing the way importers submit accounting information. All declarations must be processed electronically through the CCP, making it essential for importers to adapt to these digital processes.

To prepare, ensure your company is registered on the CCP, delegate roles to your customs broker, confirm your payment method, and secure the necessary financial bonds before the end of the transition period.

For more detailed guidance, you can visit the CBSA’s official website on CARM.

Click here for updates and notices posted to the CBSA website under "Latest".