🔖 This article is part of the Customs Compliance Guide

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

Understanding the role, regulations, and requirements of Canada's customs enforcement agency.

Type: Regulatory Body Region: Canada

Overview

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) seal

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is the federal law enforcement agency responsible for customs services in Canada. As such, all individuals and all goods entering Canada must be authorized to do so by CBSA at the first point of entry.

Being familiar with CBSA regulations and procedures is a must for highway carriers crossing the border, as non-compliance can result in delays, penalties (AMPS), seizures, and refused entry.

Compliance Solution: As a CBSA-registered software service provider, BorderConnect helps highway carriers meet mandatory entry requirements by offering easy-to-use software solutions for ACI eManifest and RNS.

Core Requirements for Carriers

To operate commercially into Canada, carriers must adhere to specific registration and reporting mandates.

Requirement	Description
Carrier Code	Highway carriers entering Canada are required to be registered with CBSA by obtaining a Carrier Code. This 4-character code identifies the carrier in all CBSA programs and is a prerequisite for crossing.
Customs Clearance	Goods must be customs cleared (usually via PARS) or authorized to move In Bond (using Form A8A).
ACI eManifest	Carriers must transmit ACI eManifest data to CBSA at least one hour prior to arriving in Canada. This allows CBSA to risk-assess cargo before it reaches the border.
RNS (Recommended)	The Release Notification System (RNS) allows carriers to verify if Customs clearance has taken place prior to arrival. While not mandatory, it provides a complete overview of carrier code activity.

Trusted Trader Programs

Participation in these programs can expedite border processing and reduce inspection rates.

PIP (Partners in Protection): Member carriers and importers agree to implement high security standards in exchange for being recognized as low risk. PIP membership is a prerequisite for FAST.
CSA (Customs Self Assessment): Allows low-risk, pre-approved importers, carriers, and drivers to use streamlined import procedures. CSA-eligible goods can clear using a special clearance procedure.
FAST (Free and Secure Trade): A joint initiative between CBSA and CBP. A carrier is considered FAST-approved for Canada only if they are both a PIP and CSA participant.

Glossary of Terms

ACI eManifest Terms

Term	Definition
Cargo Control Number (CCN)	A unique identifier for a shipment. Consists of the Carrier Code + unique reference number. For PARS shipments, the CCN is the PARS Number.
Conveyance / Trip	The portion of an eManifest specifying the truck/trailer and the list of cargos aboard. Identified by a unique Conveyance Reference Number (CRN).
Cargo / Shipment	The portion of an eManifest specifying shipper, consignee, and commodity details. One trip may contain multiple shipments.
First Canadian Port of Entry	Also known as FPOA. The CBSA port where the conveyance is expected to physically cross into Canada.
Release Office	The CBSA port code where the goods are expected to obtain customs release (often matches the FPOA, unless moving in bond).

General Customs Terms

Term	Definition
PARS	Pre-Arrival Review System. The default clearance option for commercial goods. The entry is submitted by a broker and linked to the carrier's CCN (barcode) or ACI eManifest.
In Bond	Goods authorized to move inland without release (e.g., to a bonded warehouse). Requires Form A8A.
A8A	Also known as the Cargo Control Document (CCD). A form required for In Bond movements and exceptions like TAP or Personal Goods.
RMD	Release on Minimum Documentation. A service option allowing release of goods already in Canada (e.g., at a warehouse) or for exceptions to mandatory PARS.
Importer of Record	The party ultimately responsible for securing the release of goods and payment of duties/taxes.