Courier LVS (CBSA Cargo Exemption)
| This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide |
Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS), also called Courier LVS, is a Canadian cargo exemption used for qualifying goods imported into Canada by an authorized courier under the CBSA Courier Low Value Shipment Program.
Video walkthrough: How to create Courier LVS cargo exemptions in ACI
CBSA states that the CLVS Program streamlines reporting, release, and accounting for qualifying goods transported by an authorized courier. Goods must have an estimated value for duty not exceeding CAD $3,300 and must not contain goods that are prohibited, controlled, or regulated by an Act of Parliament.
| CBSA has placed a moratorium on applications for participation in the Courier Low Value Shipment Program effective June 3, 2019, until further notice. This does not remove the program for already authorized participants, but new participation is restricted while the moratorium remains in place. |
Eligibility
To qualify for the CLVS program:
- The goods must be transported by a courier authorized by CBSA for the CLVS Program.
- The shipment must have an estimated value for duty not exceeding CAD $3,300.
- The shipment cannot be divided into smaller shipments simply to meet the value limit.
- The goods must not be prohibited, controlled, or regulated by an Act of Parliament.
If the goods do not qualify, another appropriate ACI shipment type or release process must be used.
Reporting Courier LVS in ACI eManifest
Courier LVS cargo is reported as a cargo exemption on the conveyance or equipment, not as a normal ACI shipment.
In BorderConnect, the carrier sets the Courier LVS exception code on the truck, trailer, or container where the LVS cargo is loaded. This tells CBSA that Courier LVS cargo is aboard.
If Courier LVS freight is the only cargo on the conveyance, the carrier can transmit the ACI eManifest with the trip portion only and no ACI shipments attached. If the conveyance also has PARS or other shipments, those shipments should be added normally and the Courier LVS exemption should be set on the applicable equipment.
At the Border
The driver should have:
- The ACI eManifest lead sheet
- The courier LVS consist or release-list paperwork required for the load
- Any other documents required by the authorized courier or CBSA
The ACI eManifest must be accepted by CBSA at least one hour before the driver arrives at the border. Any PARS shipments moving on the same conveyance must also have broker clearance on file as required.