CARM: What all importers need to know about CARM

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Understanding the Impact of the CBSA CARM Initiative on Your Business

Significant CBSA Announcement

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced a significant update regarding the launch of the second release of the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) project. The project was originally scheduled to go live for trade chain partners in May 2024, but the new timeline has pushed this to October 2024. For businesses engaged in import and customs brokerage, it is crucial to understand the implications of this delay.

Why the Delay?

The CBSA has decided to postpone the launch of the trade chain partners, which includes importers and customs brokers. This is because the agency is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and system robustness. However, the internal launch at the CBSA will proceed as planned on May 13th, giving the agency an opportunity to fine-tune the system before it becomes widely accessible to the trade community.

What is CARM?

CARM is a long-term project that aims to modernize the process of collecting duties and taxes on goods imported into Canada. This initiative is intended to create a more up-to-date, efficient, and automated system, which will improve compliance and the enforcement of trade laws. Once fully implemented, it will revolutionize the way duty and tax collection is done, making the process faster, more accurate, and more secure.

Impact on Trade Chain Partners

Trade chain partners are advised to maintain their regular operations until the new launch date. This delay offers more time for businesses to get ready and adjust to the new system, guaranteeing complete compliance when the system becomes active.

How Universal Logistics is Assisting Clients

Universal Logistics has taken a proactive approach in preparing its clients for the CARM transition. We are offering extensive support to help businesses register on the CARM Client Portal, and have successfully assisted many in delegating authority to manage their customs processes efficiently. Our Client Care Team is ready to facilitate and simplify the registration process for those who have not registered yet.

Next Steps for Businesses

Please take note of the following information:

It is crucial for all trade chain partners to register on the CARM portal before the new deadline. Universal Logistics is here to guide you through this process.

To access detailed videos and resources that explain the registration process and the functionalities of the CARM system, please visit our website.

Do you have any questions or need personalized assistance? You may reach out to your Client Care representative or directly contact Mark Glionna, Vice President—Client Relations & Business Development at Universal Logistics.

Conclusion

The delay in implementing CARM Release 2 presents an opportunity for businesses to align their operations with the new requirements without any disruption. At Universal Logistics, we are dedicated to ensuring that all of our clients transition smoothly to the new system. We encourage you to take advantage of this extended preparation period to fully prepare for the upcoming changes.

For more information on how we can help you with the CARM registration process or if you have any other inquiries related to customs brokerage and freight forwarding, please visit our website or contact us directly.

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