Cargo Control Number (Customs Glossary Guide)

This article is part of the Customs Glossary Guide

A PARS barcode label with a Cargo Control Number

A Cargo Control Number (CCN) is a critical identifier used by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for tracking and managing shipments entering Canada. As a unique reference number, the CCN plays a pivotal role in customs clearance and logistics operations. This article defines what a Cargo Control Number is with the Canada Border Services Agency and explores the scenarios in which it is used when shipping goods to Canada.

What is a Cargo Control Number with Canada Border Services Agency?

A Cargo Control Number is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned by the Canada Border Services Agency to each shipment of goods entering Canada. It serves as a tracking number that links various customs declarations, documents, and transaction records associated with the shipment. The CCN is generated and used by the CBSA to monitor and facilitate the movement of cargo across the Canadian border, ensuring compliance with customs regulations and efficient processing.

Scenarios in Which a Cargo Control Number is Used when Shipping to Canada:

Commercial Shipments to Canada:

Scenario: A company in the United States exports goods to Canada. Usage of Cargo Control Number: When the goods depart from the United States, the carrier or logistics provider obtains a Cargo Control Number from the CBSA. This CCN is used in the customs declaration submitted by the carrier upon arrival at the Canadian border. The CCN allows customs authorities to track and link all relevant information related to the shipment.

Air Cargo and Sea Freight:

Scenario: A freight forwarder arranges the transportation of goods to Canada via air or sea. Usage of Cargo Control Number: The freight forwarder obtains a Cargo Control Number from the CBSA before the shipment's departure from the origin country. This CCN is included in the air waybill (for air cargo) or the bill of lading (for sea freight) and is used for customs declaration upon arrival in Canada.

Temporary Imports and Exports:

Scenario: A company temporarily exports equipment to Canada for a trade show. Usage of Cargo Control Number: The company applies for a temporary exportation permit from the CBSA, and a Cargo Control Number is issued for the temporary shipment. This CCN is referenced in the temporary import declaration upon re-entry into Canada after the trade show.

In-Bond Shipments and Transshipment:

Scenario: Goods arrive at a Canadian port but need to be transported to another port for export or further processing. Usage of Cargo Control Number: The CBSA issues a Cargo Control Number for the in-bond movement of the goods to the designated port. The CCN is used in the in-bond application and customs declarations at both the port of entry and the port of exit.

Customs Compliance and Auditing:

Scenario: A company imports a large shipment of goods from various countries into Canada. Usage of Cargo Control Number: Each individual shipment in the larger consignment is assigned a unique Cargo Control Number by the CBSA. Customs officials use these CCNs to review the corresponding declarations and documentation, ensuring compliance and facilitating auditing processes.

Conclusion:

The Cargo Control Number is a vital component of shipping goods to Canada, as it enables the Canada Border Services Agency to efficiently manage and monitor the flow of cargo across the Canadian border. Whether for commercial shipments, temporary imports, transshipments, or customs compliance, the CCN plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth customs clearance and logistics operations. By adhering to the correct procedures and utilizing the Cargo Control Number effectively, businesses can enhance their shipping processes and foster seamless international trade with Canada.