🔖 This article is part of the Customs Glossary Guide

Canada Customs Invoice (CCI)

A comprehensive declaration document required for customs clearance of goods imported into Canada.

Type: Customs Document Region: Canada

Overview

A Canada Customs Invoice, a required document for PARS shipments

A Canada Customs Invoice (CCI) is a critical document used in international trade involving the importation of goods into Canada. Issued by the exporter, the Canada Customs Invoice serves as a comprehensive declaration of the goods being shipped and is essential for customs clearance at the Canadian border.

It acts as the primary source of information for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to assess duties, taxes, and admissibility.

Legal Requirement: It is a legal requirement for importers and exporters to accurately complete the CCI for commercial shipments entering Canada valued at over $2,500 CAD, or when the commercial invoice lacks necessary data.

What is a Canada Customs Invoice?

The Canada Customs Invoice is a specific customs declaration document used for goods imported into Canada. The CCI contains detailed information about the goods, their value, country of origin, and other pertinent data necessary for customs authorities to assess import duties, taxes, and eligibility for preferential trade agreements.

Key Data Elements Include:

Vendor and Consignee names and addresses.
Detailed description of goods.
Unit price and total value.
Country of Origin.
Currency of settlement.
Terms of sale (Incoterms).

Common Usage Scenarios

[Image of container ship]

The following scenarios illustrate when and how the Canada Customs Invoice is utilized in North American trade:

Scenario Type	Description & Usage
Cross-Border Importation (USA to Canada)	Scenario: A company in the United States wants to export products to a customer in Canada. Usage: The exporting company prepares a CCI, which includes a detailed description of the goods, their value, and the terms of sale. The invoice accompanies the shipment, providing customs authorities with all necessary information for assessment.
Commercial Shipments (International)	Scenario: A Canadian retailer imports electronic devices from a supplier in China for domestic distribution. Usage: The supplier in China prepares a CCI containing product details, quantity, unit price, and shipment information. This document is critical for customs clearance in Canada and ensuring compliance with import regulations.
Preferential Tariff Treatment (CUSMA/USMCA)	Scenario: A company in Mexico exports textiles to Canada, eligible for benefits under CUSMA (formerly NAFTA). Usage: To claim preferential tariff treatment, the CCI may include or be accompanied by a statement of origin, certifying the goods meet origin criteria. This allows the importer to benefit from reduced or duty-free tariffs.
Temporary Imports	Scenario: A company in Europe sends equipment to a Canadian subsidiary for temporary use in a research project. Usage: The CCI indicates that the equipment is a temporary import and provides details about its intended use and expected re-exportation date, ensuring appropriate customs procedures (like an E29B permit) are followed.
Samples & Promotional Materials	Scenario: A Canadian company sends product samples to potential customers in the United States (or vice versa). Usage: A CCI (or commercial invoice) is prepared with a detailed description of the samples, indicating their non-commercial nature and zero commercial value (value for customs purposes only) to facilitate movement without incorrect duty assessment.

Conclusion

The Canada Customs Invoice plays a fundamental role in North American trade, providing customs authorities with essential information for the proper assessment of import duties, taxes, and trade preferences. By accurately completing and providing this document, businesses ensure compliance with Canadian import regulations and facilitate the seamless movement of goods across the border, enhancing efficiency and promoting smooth international trade within the region.