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CARM Registration · CBSA Required

CARM Registration.

The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) initiative is transforming how duties and taxes are assessed and collected on commercial imports into Canada. As of October 2024, importers must pay duties and taxes directly to CBSA.

To ensure uninterrupted customs clearance, all importers must register in the CARM Client Portal and delegate access to their customs broker and other authorized representatives.

View Registration Steps → Get CARM Help
⚠ MANDATORY FOR IMPORTERS
CARM registration is mandatory for commercial importers in Canada, but the process can be straightforward with the right guidance. In this guide, we explain the self-registration process, including Business Number setup, CARM portal access, RPP requirements, and broker delegation.
CARM EXPLAINED · 01

Why Is CARM Required for Business Importing into Canada?

Portal access, account linking, financial security and authorization setup — most importers stumble on at least one of these. Here's how we help you avoid that.

CARM Portal registration may appear straightforward — create an account, connect your Business Number, set up financial security, and delegate authority to your customs broker. In practice, many importers encounter delays related to portal access, account linking, financial security requirements, and authorization setup.

When working with Ambassador Customs Brokerage for CARM support, importers receive assistance with everything from Business Number guidance to ongoing CARM-related processes.

Our goal is to help importers complete the CARM setup process accurately and avoid unnecessary delays with customs clearance operations.

REGISTRATION · 02

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Register in the CARM Portal.

To complete your CARM PORTAL REGISTRATION — follow these three steps. Need help? Contact broker@ambassadorcustoms.ca.

03
DELEGATE

Delegate Authority to Ambassador Customs Brokerage

Send delegation access via the portal. When approving, select:

  • Programs: "All programs"
  • Access Level: "Business Management"
  • Transaction Visibility Rules: Check all three boxes
✓ RESULT
This access enables Ambassador Customs Brokerage to manage your imports and handle all CARM procedures on your behalf.
SUPPORT · 03

🛠️Need Help?

If you run into issues with CARM Portal registration, GCKey credentials, or RM linking — these are the official CBSA support contacts.

CARM Client Support Help Desk (CCSH):

📞 CCSH PHONE 1-800-461-9999 (Option 2)
📧 CCSH EMAIL CARM_Engagement-Engagement_de_la_GCRA.ASFC@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
🕖 HOURS Monday to Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM (ET)
LET US HANDLE IT · 04

Let Us Assist With Your CARM Setup.

If the CARM registration process feels time-consuming or confusing, Ambassador Customs Brokerage can help guide you through the onboarding process and customs account setup requirements.

We support both Canadian businesses and Non-Resident Importers (NRI) importing goods into Canada.

Get CARM Support → View Pricing

OUR CARM SUPPORT SERVICES MAY INCLUDE:

  • Initial consultation to review your import activities and requirements
  • Guidance with CRA Business Number and import/export program registration
  • Assistance with CARM Portal enrollment
  • RPP (Release Prior to Payment) financial security guidance
  • Broker delegation and authorization setup
  • Documentation review and onboarding support
  • Ongoing assistance with CARM-related processes and customs clearance operations
CARM FAQ · 05

CARM FAQ.

Common questions about CARM, RPP bonds, Non-Resident Importer program, payments, and broker delegation.

8 ANSWERED QUESTIONS · UPDATED 2026
Q.01

What is CARM and do I need it?

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CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) is the Canada Border Services Agency's system for managing commercial import accounts, duties, taxes, payments, and financial security. Commercial importers into Canada are generally required to register in the CARM Client Portal. Ambassador Customs Brokerage assists importers with CARM setup, portal access, broker delegation, and onboarding support.
Q.02

What is RPP (Release Prior to Payment)?

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RPP (Release Prior to Payment) allows commercial goods to be released before duties and taxes are paid, helping speed up customs clearance and improve cash flow.
Q.03

How do I pay duties and taxes in Canada?

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Payments are made through the CBSA CARM portal or via online banking after receiving a Statement of Account.
Q.04

What is an Importer of Record (IOR)?

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The IOR is responsible for the shipment, including duties and taxes. It can be a Canadian business or a Non-Resident Importer.
Q.05

Can a U.S. or international company import goods into Canada?

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Yes. Through the Non-Resident Importer (NRI) program, foreign companies can import goods into Canada and sell directly to Canadian customers. Ambassador Customs Brokerage assists with customs compliance, CARM setup, and import clearance support.
Q.06

How long does CARM registration take?

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For most importers, CARM setup — including Business Number registration, GST setup, RPP requirements, and broker delegation — is typically completed within 2-3 business days. Self-service registration may take longer depending on the importer's documentation and account setup status.
Q.07

Do I need my own RPP bond?

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Both options may be available depending on your import activity. Importers may obtain their own RPP bond directly through a surety provider. Ambassador Customs Brokerage can also refer clients to trusted bonding partners for assistance with obtaining an RPP bond.
Q.08

What happens if I later switch customs brokers?

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Your CARM account remains under your business ownership and control. Broker delegation can be changed or removed at any time through the CARM Portal, and switching brokers does not affect your importer account or business history.