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Importing to Canada
If you plan to import goods into Canada, you must obtain an import account and fully understand the various customs requirements for each product. In Canada, the Non-Resident Importer (NRI) manages the import/export process.
Tax
Up to 5%
Duties
Up to 7%
Lead Times
1-2 Weeks
Restricted Items
None
Best Carrier Option
Freight Forwarder or Courier
Non-Working Days
Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays
Prominent Languages
English, French
Non-Resident Importer of Record Canada
As with most countries, a registered entity is required to import dual-use tech goods compliantly. Within Canadian borders, this entity is the Non-Resident Importer (NRI). The NRI performs the same functions as an Importer of Record and ensures the compliant entry of your goods through customs and into Canada.
The NRI ensures all duties, taxes, and customs regulations are met for goods entering Canada. This includes collating and completing customs documentation, paying applicable taxes (e.g., GST/HST), and ensuring the goods comply with local regulations. For example, to comply with Canadian laws all interfaces and documentation must be in English and French.
Population
40,1 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Crude Petroleum
Capital City
Ottawa
Biggest Industry by Import
Cars
Exporting from Canada
Exporting tech gear from Canada involves navigating several complexities, including compliance with export control regulations, such as the Export and Import Permits Act (EIPA) and the Controlled Goods Program, which may apply to certain high-tech or dual-use items.
Pain Points When Importing to Canada
Canadian customs have the right to inspect shipments at any time. Therefore, it is essential that these goods are correctly classified. Any error can result in significant delays and fines. TecEx’s compliance database of HS codes ensures that your gear will be correctly classified, regardless of the part.
Calculating customs duty on electronics imported into Canada uses one of the six valuation methods. Another duty that may apply to certain products is the Special Import Measures Act (SIMA). In these instances, your appointed Non-Resident Importer will guide you through the customs compliance process.
Countries That Trade with Canada
Asia
Japan
North America
United States of America (USA)
Importing to Canada and SIMA
The Special Import Measures Act (SIMA) provides the framework for investigating and addressing unfair trade practices, particularly dumping and subsidizing imported goods. The purpose of SIMA is to protect local manufacturers and producers. SIMA imposes duties on certain products to safeguard Canadian businesses from competitive disadvantages.
Delivered Duty Paid Canada
Importing tech equipment to Canada? Our Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service is your turnkey solution.
We handle:
- Pre-compliance checks
- HS code classification
- Import tax estimation and payment
- CARM compliance
- Customs clearance
- Final delivery to your destination in Canada
All under a DDP Incoterm, ensuring you avoid unexpected charges, customs complications, or compliance missteps.
When we act as your NRI and Importer of Record, you retain visibility and control. It’s the easiest way to enter or expand your footprint in Canada, and it ensures you remain fully compliant while giving your end users the local experience they expect.
FTAs and Trade With Canada
Free Trade Agreements aim to remove barriers to trade among party members. However, you will still require a locally registered entity to act as your IOR or NRI to move the goods through customs. Canada forms part of two significant FTAs, namely the North American Free Trade Agreement (with the USA and Mexico) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
Start Importing to Canada the Smart Way
Whether you’re a seasoned multinational or a first-time shipper, TecEx helps you import to Canada efficiently, transparently, and without the headache. With our localized knowledge, advanced compliance tools, and full-service DDP solution, we turn Canadian customs into another smooth step in your supply chain.
Simplify Your Imports into Canada
Contact TecEx today to get started, and let us help you enter the Canadian market with confidence and compliance.
