CARM Canada Customs: The Ultimate Guide for Importers in 2025

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 since 2025. For full details on setup and broker delegation, see our CARM Registration page.

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 brokers and employees

Steps Importers Must Take Under CARM

To stay compliant with the program, importers must complete several mandatory steps:

1. Obtain a Business Number (BN) with Import/Export Program (RM)
2. Register on the CARM Client Portal (CCP)
3. Assign a Business Account Manager (BAM)
4. Delegate access to employees and brokers
5. Post a financial security (customs bond or cash deposit)

Failure to complete these steps will prevent CBSA from releasing your goods at the border. If you'd rather have us handle the entire process, our customs brokerage services include full CARM setup and ongoing compliance support.

How to Register for CARM

Importers can register through the CARM Client Portal.

To register:

1. Sign in using a GCKey or a Sign-In Partner (e.g. your online banking login).
2. Link your business account using your BN and importer profile.
3. Assign yourself or your broker as a Business Account Manager (BAM).
4. Upload your financial security (customs bond) by the due date.

Most businesses use the services of a licensed broker to complete this setup correctly and avoid delays.

The Role of a Broker in CARM

A licensed broker plays a key role in navigating the CARM 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 accounts and ensure all declarations are filed on time.

What Changed in 2025?

As of May 2025, the program 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.
• Registration 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. For pricing and a full list of brokerage fees, including transparent CARM support rates, see our pricing page.

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 broker, you can stay compliant and avoid border delays.

Need help registering or posting your importer bond?
Contact Ambassador Customs Brokerage for expert guidance.

FAQ

Do I need to register for CARM to import to Canada?

Yes, all commercial importers must register in the CARM Client Portal to manage their import declarations, payments, and compliance.

What steps must importers complete?

Importers must create an account, link their business number, assign users and roles, and set up a security bond for RPP eligibility.

Can my broker handle the setup?

Brokers can assist, but importers are responsible for their own registration and must authorize brokers in the portal. Our CARM setup service walks you through the full delegation process.

What changed with Phase 2?

As of May 2025, importers must post their own RPP security and file entries directly through the system. CBSA no longer accepts paper B3 forms or third-party payments.

Where can I register?

You can register at the CARM Client Portal using your GCKey or Sign-In Partner account.