How Do I Prepare My Driver To Cross Into Canada Commercially And What Documents Do They Need (DIY Customs Consulting)
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🔖 This article is part of the Customs Compliance Guide |
Driver Travel Documents (Canada)
A guide to the required identification and paperwork for commercial drivers crossing into Canada.
Overview
Commercial truck drivers operating in the U.S. are required to provide proper identification and documentation to cross into Canada with a commercial load. Failure to provide the correct documents can result in delays, refusal of entry, or penalties.
In addition to personal identification, the driver must also carry specific paperwork pertaining to the shipment and the cargo release type being used.
Accepted Travel Documents
To enter Canada, a driver must present one of the following valid documents:
- Proof of Citizenship: Passport, Passport Card, or Citizenship Card.
- Valid Driver's License: Issued in a U.S. state or Canadian province.
- Trusted Trader Card: FAST Card or NEXUS Card.
- Native American ID: Secure Certificate of Indian Status (INAC).
- U.S. Permanent Resident: Green Card (Must be accompanied by a valid passport from the country of citizenship).
Permanent Residents: If you are a permanent resident of the U.S. but a citizen of a foreign country, you are required to show your Passport of Citizenship in addition to your Permanent Resident Card.
Shipment Documentation
Beyond personal ID, drivers may be required to provide additional paperwork depending on the type of shipment being transported.
Commercial Goods (Standard)
If crossing loaded with commercial goods, the driver must generally provide:
- ACI eManifest Lead Sheet: A document with a barcode linking to the electronic manifest.
- PARS Barcode Label: Affixed to the invoice or manifest (unless using an ACI lead sheet with the CCN embedded).
- Bill of Lading: Detailing the goods and transport contract.
- Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value and description of goods.
Trusted Trader Shipments (FAST/CSA)
If the driver is transporting a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) or Customs Self Assessment (CSA) shipment:
- FAST Card: The driver must be registered in the FAST program and present a valid FAST card at the time of arrival.
- CSA/FAST Lead Sheet: Specific documentation identifying the trusted trader load.
For more information on Canadian shipment release types and what documentation is required, visit the Shipment Release Types guide.