What is CARM?

The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) project introduced a new online tool – CARM Client Portal (CCP) – that changes the way tax and duty is collected for goods imported into Canada.

Key changes for importers?

CARM changes how importers will work with their customs broker. Brokers can still complete customs releases and entries on behalf of an importer, but the following tasks will now become the importer’s responsibility under CARM:

Posting financial security (surety bonds & cash deposits)
CBSA account activities
Payment processes

Q2 2024: CARM Release 2 (R2)

We recommend all importers be prepared in advance of R2.

With R2, the CARM Client Portal (CCP) will be at full functionality. At this time, all importers will be required to have registered for access to the CCP and participate in managing their customs activities and profiles in closer coordination with customs brokers and other service providers. Importers will have to be enrolled in the CCP and have their financial security processes in place or risk having their shipments held at the border.

Prevent delays by aligning with CARM now

CARM will impact companies of all types and sizes, including individual importers and large enterprises. Getting registered, adapting key systems, and adjusting business workflows to accommodate CARM will be the best way to avoid preventable delays and supply chain interruptions.

A primary objective of CARM revolves around simplifying and streamlining importing processes through an online self-service system, the CCP.

The CBSA will use CARM as the official system of record for collecting duties and taxes. Additionally, importers and their partners will use CARM to manage information and CBSA interactions, such as statements of accounts, requests for rulings, and transactions.

Get started on the CCP

The CCP is now live and participation in CARM is scheduled to become mandatory with R2, so it's time to...

Learn more about the CCP registration process
Start your CCP registration with the CBSA

Registration in the CCP is necessary to gain access to the portal’s functionality as well as the important function of delegating access to your broker before R2.