W.T. Express Canada is helping freight forwarders and importers navigate Canada’s new customs compliance framework and avoid costly border delays
W.T. Express Canada, Conqueror Freight Network member in Toronto, Canada, is reminding its customers and overseas partners of the mandatory requirements under the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system, which now governs the clearance of all commercial imports into Canada.
With the transition period officially ending on December 31, 2025, CARM became fully mandatory on January 1, 2026. Under the new framework, customs brokers can no longer use their own business number or financial security to clear goods on behalf of importers. Instead, every Canadian importer of record must establish and maintain their own CARM account before shipments arrive in the country.
To ensure smooth customs clearance, Canadian importers must have a valid Business Number (BN), an Import/Export Program (RM) account, registration in the CARM Client Portal (CCP), and delegated authority allowing their customs broker to act on their behalf. Importers wishing to benefit from Release Prior to Payment (RPP) must also enroll in the program and provide their own financial security through a surety bond or cash deposit.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in shipments being held at the border, additional storage and demurrage charges, slower customs clearance procedures, and penalties or interest on overdue payments.
As part of its customer support initiatives, W.T. Express Canada is encouraging freight forwarders to verify their Canadian consignees’ CARM compliance before confirming bookings. The company is also advising importers to review their CARM Client Portal registration, ensure their financial security remains sufficient, and confirm that they have delegated authority to their customs broker to facilitate customs clearance.
“The full implementation of CARM marks a significant change in Canada’s import process, and preparation is essential for avoiding unnecessary delays and additional costs,” says Mr. Paul Lau, Managing Director of W.T. Express Canada. “We are working closely with our customers and overseas partners to ensure they understand the new requirements and complete the necessary registrations before cargo is shipped. Taking these steps in advance helps keep supply chains moving efficiently while ensuring full compliance with CBSA regulations.”
By proactively educating customers and partners on the new customs requirements, W.T. Express Canada continues to reinforce its commitment to providing reliable customs and logistics support. Through its expertise in Canadian import procedures, the company is helping businesses adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape while ensuring the uninterrupted movement of international shipments.