The tools you need for importing goods into Canada conveniently and hassle-free

Argo works for you to provide quick customs clearance at all Canadians Ports of Entry. Having developed our very own state-of-the-art software, we guarantee lightning-fast service anywhere when importing goods into Canada. Argo specializes in complex customs laws, rules and regulations, saving you from the time-consuming hassles of applications, paperwork and jargon. We've become famous for our expert understanding of import/export laws, most notably those of Food Items & Other Government Department (OGD) goods clearance.

As you may well know, international trade laws change rapidly. Our Canada customs brokers importing specialists operate in offices around the world, know the intricacies of global trade, and give you the very best advice when it comes to Exporting or Importing into Canada. Argo takes care of all your shipments and provides you with the critical information you need for each transaction. You'll love how this saves your business a tremendous amount of money and time. Contact us at 1 (888) 311-8303 or set-up an online account today!

Let Argo Be Your Customs Representative When You Import Goods into Canada

1. Before Importing or Exporting Commercial Goods into Canada you have to obtain your Import/Export Business Number from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

For an import-export (RM) account:

Call 1-800-959-5525; or

Use Business Registration Online (BRO).

2. Identify the goods you plan to import. You must have an accurate description of the goods you plan to import before proceeding! Our Customs Brokers will help you determine the HS Tariff code and regulations which apply to your shipment.

3. Determine which country the goods are coming from and in which country they are manufactured. Many countries have preferential Tariff Treatments with Canada. Argo will advise you on which papers you have to present to apply for a preferential duty rate tariff.

4. Make sure the goods are not prohibited from Import to Canada. For example the following prohibited goods cannot be imported into Canada:

Material which is considered to be obscene, treasonable, seditious, hate propaganda, or child pornography

Used or second-hand automobiles of all kinds (except from the United States)

Used or second-hand aircrafts of all kinds, barring exceptions

Debased or counterfeit currency

Certain bird

Aigrettes, egret plumes and certain other feathers

Used or second-hand mattresses

Articles manufactured or produced by prisoners

Reprints of Canadian works protected by copyright

Matches made with white phosphorus

For more information on prohibited goods, see Memoranda Series D9, Prohibited Importations or contact us for help.

5. Determine whether or not the goods you want to import are subject to restrictions or other requirements.

6. Controlled Imports to Canada. For information on import controls visit Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, Export and Import Controls or call 613-944-1265 or 1-877-808-8838. These controls are in accordance with the Export and Import Permits Act (EIPA).

For information on this Act, refer to Memorandum D19-10-2, Export and Import Permits Act (Importations). Examples of goods subject to import controls:

Agricultural products

Steel products

Textiles and apparel

Weapons and ammunition

7. Labelling requirements: Make sure you have contacted other government departments or agencies, for example the Competition Bureau, Canadian Food Inspection Agency or Health Canada, to ensure your imported goods meet the necessary labelling requirements. Ensuring that this is addressed prior to the goods leaving the country of export will facilitate the importing process.

8. Marking requirements: Make sure that the country of origin is clearly indicated on the imported goods as required. It is important that you take care of this requirement before the goods leave the country of export.

Our specialists will be happy to answer any of your import/export questions.

We have offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.