Border Crossing

Customs Broker

• Agent usually hired by the importer of the product
• Represents the importer to customs
• Makes any authorized payments needed to enter goods into a country
• Assists shippers in creating the Canada Customs Invoice (CCI)
• Consistent subcontractor qualification process

Importer

• Can supply name of Customs Broker to shippers
• Responsible for payment of duties or taxes owed on the goods

Shipping documents

Shippers are required to supply carriers with the following information to ensure a trouble free border crossing.

Bill of Lading

• Number of boxes/pallets/cartons
• Description of the goods
• Weight
• Shipping terms
• Name and address of consignee

Canada Customs Invoice (CCI) or Commercial Invoice

• Exact description of the goods
• Quantity
• Unit of measure
• Total value
• Name and address of the exporter, importer and consignee

Packing List - itemizes the contents of a package

• Type of container
• Dimensions and weight of each package
• May be used by customs officials to check the cargo

Customs Documents

Needed on an exception basis only. The customs broker helps shippers determine if any of these documents are required.

NAFTA Certificate of Origin (Form B232E)

• Required to secure a lower tariff rate on North American goods
• Signed statement declaring the goods to be of Mexico or USA origin

Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) - Required by the US Dept of Commerce

• Goods shipped in transit through Canada for export to another country
• Exports requiring a Dept of Commerce validated export license
• Goods subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations
• Goods that will be stored in Canada awaiting exportation to an unknown country
• Goods requiring a Justice Dept, Drug Enforcement Agency Export Declaration

Packing List - itemizes the contents of a package

• Type of container
• Dimensions and weight of each package
• May be used by customs officials to check the cargo

Import Control List: These permits are obtained from the Department of Foreign Affairs

Import Quotas: Some commodities are subject to import quotas. The importer and their broker must be aware if quota exist for their goods.

USA to Canada Process

1. Identify the Customs Broker - Usually the Importer or Consignee will ID the broker, however, there are situations where the shipper will name the broker

2. Shipper assembles all necessary documentation for entry into Canada.

3. Shipper notifies Schneider that the load is ready with the following information

• • Routine shipper and consignee information
  • Commodity
  • Accurate piece count, description and weight
  • Name and location of Customs Broker
  • Method of customs clearance (PARS, FIRST, etc.)
  • Method to give driver documents
  • Special customs clearance procedures

4. Driver arrives at pick up location

• • Bill of lading
  • Canada Customs/Commercial Invoice
  • NAFTA Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
  • Packing List
  • All necessary customs documents
  • Special Instructions

5. Driver completes carrier clearance procedures and delivers the load

• • Routine shipper and consignee information
  • Commodity
  • Accurate piece count, description and weight
  • Name and location of Customs Broker
  • Method of customs clearance (PARS, FIRST, etc.)
  • Method to give driver documents
  • Special customs clearance procedures