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Commercial Border Crossing Paperwork

in Equipment Check

Billions of dollars worth of goods cross our borders every day. A commercial border crossing can be easy task if you have the correct paperwork and follow the rules. You should feel comfortable about a shipment that originates from the US and delivers in Canada for example. As long as you understand and follow the steps required you are in business.

SCAC and Canadian Carrier Code – This four digit code is required of all carriers transporting to and from Canada.

Cargo Control Document (CCD) – This is a manifest, waybill, or other approved document covering the transportation of the shipment.

Commercial Invoice – This document indicates the buyer, seller, country of origin, price paid, detailed description of goods, quantity. The description can’t be “FAK” for example.

Bar Code – A carrier can print and attach the bar code to the documents. A bar code includes the Canadian Carrier Code number and another unique number for that specific shipment.

PARS – Pre-Arrival Review System – A barcode label used when a load orginates in the US and delivers in Canada. Allows to submit minimum documentation information to the CBSA for review and processing before a shipments arrived at the border.

  • EDI – at least one hour before arrival
  • Paper – at least two hours before arrival

PAPS – Pre-Arrival Processing System – A barcode label used when a load originates in Canada and delivers in the US.

  • Pick up freight and attach PAPS to invoice.
  • Fax copy to the customs broker (on agreed upon time before arrival to the border)
  • US Customs Broker prepars entry in advance
  • Carrier arrives at border with original paperwork.
  • Paperwork scanned and directed through (no exam) or to secondary (exam required).

eManifest – A new and virtually paperless process for importing goods into Canada.

Customs Broker – Not required, but are hired to assist the importer with paperwork etc.

Paperwork

Click to view documents

Inward Cargo Manifest
Canada Customs Invoice

This list is only a guide and there are other ways of importing goods other the ones listed here. If you need more detail procedures you might try the Canada Border Services Agency CBSA.

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Heavy Haul TruckingMy name is Travis Smith and I've been working in the trucking business since 1994 and with Heavy Haul Trucking since 2001. Our office knows about oversize, heavy and specialty loads and how to get your load exactly where you need it, safely and on time.

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