The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) program is transforming how goods are imported into Canada. If you’re an importer, understanding CARM Canada Customs is no longer optional—it’s essential. In this guide, we break down what CARM is, what steps importers must take, and the key changes introduced in 2025.
✅ What Is CARM?
CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) is a digital initiative by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). It’s designed to streamline import accounting, improve compliance, and give businesses direct access to their import and tax data through a self-service portal.
With the CARM Client Portal (CCP), importers can:
- View and manage their customs accounts online
- Submit commercial accounting declarations (CADs)
- Pay duties and taxes directly
- Assign access to customs brokers and employees
🧾 Steps Importers Must Take Under CARM
To stay compliant with CARM Canada Customs regulations, importers must complete several mandatory steps:
- Obtain a Business Number (BN) with Import/Export Program (RM)
- Register on the CARM Client Portal (CCP)
- Assign a Business Account Manager (BAM)
- Delegate access to employees and brokers
- Post a financial security (customs bond or cash deposit)
Failure to complete these steps will prevent CBSA from releasing your goods at the border.
🖥️ How to Register for CARM
Importers can register for CARM through the CARM Client Portal.
To register:
- Sign in using a GCKey or a Sign-In Partner (e.g. your online banking login).
- Link your business account using your BN and importer profile.
- Assign yourself or your broker as a Business Account Manager (BAM).
- Upload your financial security (customs bond) by the due date.
Most businesses use the services of a licensed customs broker to complete this setup correctly and avoid delays.
🧑💼 The Role of a Customs Broker in CARM
A licensed customs broker plays a key role in navigating the CARM Canada Customs system. Brokers can:
- Register and manage importer accounts in the CCP
- Submit declarations on your behalf
- Monitor tax payments and account balances
- Ensure your account is fully compliant with CBSA regulations
At Ambassador Customs Brokerage, we help new importers set up their CARM accounts and ensure all declarations are filed on time.
🔄 What Changed in 2025?
As of May 2025, CARM Canada Customs entered its final implementation phase:
- The Release Prior to Payment (RPP) program now requires importers to post their own financial security.
- Brokers can no longer use their own bonds to cover client duties.
- The Customs Declaration (CAD) replaces the old B3 and B2 forms.
- CARM is now mandatory for all commercial importers.
These changes shift financial responsibility to importers and increase the importance of proper setup and real-time compliance.
📌 Final Thoughts
CARM Canada Customs is changing the way Canadian businesses import goods. By registering correctly, posting the required security, and working with a knowledgeable customs broker, you can stay compliant and avoid border delays.
Need help registering for CARM Canada Customs or posting your importer bond?
Contact Ambassador Customs Brokerage for expert guidance.
❓FAQ
Do I need to register for CARM to import to Canada in 2025?
✅ Yes, all commercial importers must register in the CARM Client Portal to manage their import declarations, payments, and compliance.
What steps must importers complete under CARM?
✅ Importers must create a CARM account, link their business number, assign users and roles, and set up a security bond for RPP eligibility.
Can my customs broker handle the CARM setup?
✅ Brokers can assist, but importers are responsible for their own CARM registration and must authorize brokers in the portal.
What changed in 2025 with CARM Phase 2?
✅ As of May 2025, importers must post their own RPP security and file entries directly through CARM. CBSA no longer accepts paper B3 forms or third-party payments.
Where can I register for CARM Canada Customs?
✅ You can register at the CARM Client Portal using your GCKey or Sign-In Partner account.