How to Avoid Customs Delays in Canada: Top 5 Importer Mistakes (AndHow to Fix Them)
Customs delays are one of the most common and most expensive problems importers face when shipping goods into Canada. A delay at CBSA can disrupt delivery timelines, frustrate customers, increase storage fees, and create serious complications for your supply chain. In most cases, these delays are not caused by CBSA itself, but by small administrative errors made long before the shipment arrives at the border.
To effectively avoid customs delays in Canada, it’s important to prepare all documentation accurately. Many importers overlook this critical step.
Having a solid understanding of how to avoid customs delays in Canada can lead to smoother operations and improved customer satisfaction.
Understanding why shipments get held—and how to prevent it—is the key to ensuring smooth, predictable, and efficient importing. Whether you’re a new importer or someone who moves freight regularly, knowing how to avoid customs delays in Canada will save time, reduce costs, and keep your business compliant.
Below are the top 5 mistakes that lead to CBSA delays, along with practical steps to eliminate them.
Another way to avoid customs delays in Canada is to maintain open lines of communication with your customs broker.
1. Incorrect HS Code (One of the Leading Causes of Delays)
The HS code determines duties, taxes, PGA requirements, SIMA, OIC charges, and even whether your goods require additional documentation. When the HS code is wrong, CBSA often pauses the release for manual review. This can trigger requests for more information, explanations, catalogues, product links, or additional paperwork.
Incorrect classification can lead to:
- Shipment holds lasting several days
- Duty increases due to reclassification
- SIMA or anti-dumping duties being missed
- Possible post-release audit issues
How to avoid delays:
Work with a licensed customs broker to ensure your goods are classified correctly the first time. A proper HS code significantly reduces the chance of CBSA intervention.
A licensed customs broker can offer insights on how to avoid customs delays in Canada and expedite your shipments.
2. Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation
Over 60% of customs delays in Canada happen because the documentation submitted to CBSA does not match what the carrier provided, or what is physically inside the shipment. Even small inconsistencies can cause delays.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively avoid customs delays in Canada and ensure your shipments are processed smoothly.
Common issues include:
- Vague product descriptions (“parts,” “items,” “samples”)
- Missing country of origin
- Declared value too low or too high
- Incorrect currency on the invoice
- Missing permits or certificates
CBSA needs accurate information to validate your declaration. If something seems unclear, the shipment is placed on hold until clarification is provided.
How to avoid delays:
Provide clear, detailed commercial invoices with proper valuation and origin information. A customs broker can pre-check your documentation and correct issues before submitting to CBSA.
3. CARM Registration Problems (Huge Source of Delays Since 2024)
Since the introduction of CBSA’s CARM portal, many importers experience delays due to missing or incomplete CARM setup. If your business is not properly registered, CBSA may refuse to process your release.
Frequent problems include:
- Importer not registered in the CARM Client Portal
- Broker not authorized under Delegation of Authority
- RPP bond not added to the account
- Incorrect business number or missing corporate info
How to avoid delays:
Register in CARM in advance and authorize your customs broker. Ensuring your RPP bond is active eliminates the risk of CBSA holding your shipment due to missing financial security.
Understanding the CARM registration process is crucial to avoid customs delays in Canada and maintain compliance.
4. Missing Approvals from Participating Government Agencies (PGAs)
Many products require approvals beyond CBSA. If these are missing, the shipment is automatically delayed until the importer provides the correct permits or documentation.
For example:
- CFIA oversees food, plants, seeds, meat, and live animals
- Health Canada regulates cosmetics, medical devices, and natural health products
- Transport Canada controls vehicle imports and safety-related items
- ECCC manages chemicals and environmental goods
If a shipment contains regulated items and the necessary permit is missing, CBSA cannot release the goods—no exceptions.
How to avoid delays:
Check Partner Government Agency requirements before shipping. A customs broker can verify regulatory obligations using tools like AIRS and assist in obtaining required permits ahead of time.
5. Trying to Clear Customs Without Professional Support
Missing approvals can severely impact your ability to avoid customs delays in Canada, so always check requirements beforehand.
Handling customs clearance independently is possible, but risky. Many delays occur because importers accidentally make errors in:
- HS code selection
- Valuation and currency conversion
- CARM declarations
- PGA compliance
- Origin documentation
- Duty/tax calculations
These errors not only create delays but may trigger CBSA audits or re-assessments later.
How to avoid delays:
Using a licensed customs broker ensures accuracy, compliance, and faster processing. A broker manages classification, documentation review, filings, CARM submissions, and communication with CBSA—minimizing the chance of delays.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding customs delays in Canada is not about luck—it’s about preparation and compliance. When documents are accurate, CARM is set up correctly, and HS codes are verified, CBSA processing becomes fast and predictable.
Utilize tools and resources available to you to avoid customs delays in Canada effectively and ensure a smooth shipping experience.
By understanding the main causes of delays and working with an experienced customs broker, you significantly reduce risk, save time, and ensure every shipment moves smoothly through the border.
Taking proactive steps helps you avoid customs delays in Canada and protects your business from unnecessary complications.
Need Help Avoiding Customs Delays?
At Ambassador Customs Brokerage, we specialize in fast, compliant customs clearance across Canada. Whether you import parcels, LTL, FTL, or containers, we help ensure your shipment clears without delays, penalties, or complications.
📞 Contact us today — we’re here to help with any import questions or clearance needs.
Ultimately, knowing how to avoid customs delays in Canada is essential for efficient logistics and successful importing.
In conclusion, the key to avoid customs delays in Canada lies in preparation and informed decision-making.
By staying vigilant, you can consistently avoid customs delays in Canada and enhance your overall shipping process.
When you know how to avoid customs delays in Canada, you are setting your business up for long-term success.
If you ever encounter issues, remember that knowing how to avoid customs delays in Canada can save you time and stress.
Partnering with experts can provide you with the strategies to avoid customs delays in Canada effectively.
In summary, effective strategies to avoid customs delays in Canada are crucial for efficient international trade.