Top 10 Questions to Ask About Customs Brokerage in Canada

Choosing the right customs brokerage in Canada isn’t just a box to check—it’s a strategic decision that can directly impact your costs, timelines, and compliance record. Whether you're importing electronics, food, pharmaceuticals, or raw materials, the customs broker you choose should offer more than just paperwork processing. 

To help you evaluate your options, here are the top 10 questions every importer should ask a customs brokerage in Canada—and why each one matters. 

✅ 1. Are You Licensed by the CBSA? 

Only customs brokers licensed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) are authorized to act on your behalf. Always confirm the brokerage is properly licensed and compliant. 

Why it matters: CBSA licensing is essential for handling your shipments legally and avoiding costly errors. 

✅ 2. Do You Handle CARM and RPP Registration? 

Under the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) program, importers must register on the CARM portal and secure a Release Prior to Payment (RPP) bond. Your broker should help with setup, compliance, and ongoing management. 

Why it matters: Improper or incomplete CARM registration can delay your shipments or result in penalties. 

✅ 3. How Do You Stay Updated on Canadian and Global Trade Regulations? 

Ask how the brokerage monitors changes from CBSA, CBP (U.S.), and other international agencies. Regular updates are vital in today’s fast-changing trade environment. 

Why it matters: Proactive brokers help you avoid unexpected duty increases, shipment holds, or compliance issues. 

✅ 4. What’s Your Process for HS Code Classification? 

Harmonized System (HS) codes determine the duties you pay and whether your goods qualify for trade agreement benefits. Your broker should have a clear, documented classification process. 

Why it matters: Incorrect HS codes lead to overpayments, rejections, or post-clearance audits. 

✅ 5. Do You Have Experience with My Industry or Product Category? 

Different industries face different compliance requirements. For example, regulated goods (like pharmaceuticals, food, or electronics) often involve additional documentation and oversight from agencies like Health Canada, CFIA, or ISED. 

Why it matters: Industry-specific experience reduces the risk of costly delays or clearance issues. 

✅ 6. Can You Provide Real-Time Shipment Tracking and Online Access? 

Many leading customs brokerages in Canada offer client portals where you can track clearance progress, view documents, and download reporting data. 

Why it matters: Transparency helps your team stay informed and make smarter logistics decisions. 

✅ 7. How Do You Handle Delays or Border Holds? 

Ask what steps the broker takes if a shipment is flagged by CBSA or another agency. Will they escalate? Who do they notify? What’s the turnaround? 

Why it matters: You want a partner who solves problems—not one who waits for you to ask about them. 

✅ 8. How Do You Ensure Tariffs and Duties Are Applied and Reported Accurately? 

A trustworthy broker should have a clear process for verifying duty rates, calculating total landed costs, and reporting accurate tariff amounts to CBSA. They should also be able to explain and correct any discrepancies. 

Why it matters: Errors in tariff reporting can lead to overpayments, refund delays, or audits from CBSA. 

✅ 9. What Is Your Fee Structure—and What’s Included? 

Some customs brokerages charge per transaction, others offer bundled services or account-based pricing. Ask for clarity on what’s included and what costs extra. 

Why it matters: Understanding fees upfront helps you assess total value—not just invoice totals. 

✅ 10. What Ongoing Support Do You Offer After Clearance? 

Beyond basic customs clearance, your broker should offer post-entry corrections, audit readiness, classification updates, and compliance advice. 

Why it matters: The best brokers serve as long-term trade partners, not just transaction processors. 

Quick Reference: Key Questions for Evaluating a Customs Brokerage in Canada 

• Are you CBSA licensed and CARM-ready? 

• How do you handle HS classification? 

• Do you have experience with my product type? 

• Can you help us maximise trade agreement savings? 

• What client tools and support do you offer? 

Why These Questions Matter 

Importing into Canada comes with increasingly complex requirements. As policies shift and programs like CARM become mandatory, the value of a strong customs brokerage partner becomes clear. This isn’t just about clearing goods—it’s about protecting your business from risk, inefficiency, and financial loss. 

Looking for a Trusted Customs Brokerage in Canada? 

At Hemisphere, we’ve supported Canadian importers across all major industries for more than 40 years. From automotive and technology to food, retail, manufacturing, and beyond—we understand the operational realities and compliance challenges businesses face. 

We offer: 

• CBSA-licensed customs clearance and industry-specific expertise 

• CARM and RPP onboarding, tracking, and compliance oversight 

• Real-time shipment visibility and proactive communication 

• Strategic planning to optimize duties and navigate trade changes 

  
  

Whether you're importing sensitive, high-volume, or highly regulated goods, we’ll help you move faster, stay compliant, and reduce your landed costs. 

Contact Hemisphere today and find out how our custom brokerage solutions can support your business—now and into the future. 

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