Importers are required to register for the new CARM Canada system. This new software will replace the current customs coding form, adjustment request form, and related processes. Importers will be required to post financial security directly to their accounts, removing the need for brokers to do so.
In addition, a new billing cycle will harmonize payment due dates and simplify accounting information. Once the new system is in place, importers will no longer be required to use a broker to complete customs paperwork.
The CARM Canada system is being phased in phases. Phase one was a trial run. Phase two will make the system mandatory. Importers must register by the first release to take advantage of the new CCP. Phase two will bring additional features to the system, including a streamlined user interface for submitting customs paperwork. It will also include the CCP, which is the new portal for the trade chain. It also includes a GCKey, a unique electronic credential issued by the Government of Canada.
In addition to the CARM Client Portal, the system will also have an electronic commercial accounting declaration system. This system will include corrections and adjustments, and will replace B3 Customs Coding.
This change will improve service delivery. And because it requires a single login, the process will be more efficient. In the future, CARM Canada will be accessible by anyone who registers. With this, importers will be able to manage their accounts through the CARM Portal without the help of a customs agent.
The CBSA is implementing the CARM system as part of its ongoing initiative to modernize the import process. The project will streamline and automate business processes, while enhancing border security. The first two releases of CARM are expected to go live in 2021.
The third release will build upon the previous releases. In the meantime, importers should expect to receive the first CARM updates shortly. So, start preparing for CARM Canada with the help of these three CARM projects!
You are free to continue to comply with CARM’s other requirements after you have successfully established your importer account. In order to become a member of CARM, all importers are required to first become members of CCP and then develop a profile on the CARM Client Portal.
You can log in to your account through the CCP, and you can also interact with the CBSA through the portal that is provided by the CCP. Another member of your staff can be appointed to the role of Business Account Manager if you so choose. It is the responsibility of a Business Account Manager to oversee all CARM-related activities.
After CARM R2 is implemented, importers will no longer need to use paper documents. With this new system, CBSA will replace the B3 and B2 forms with CAD forms. The new system will also harmonize payment due dates for all transactions.
Importers will be able to adjust or correct account information online, which will streamline the account information correction process. In addition, CARM will offer new tools to help importers manage their accounts with CBSA. These tools will include an online client self-service portal, online invoicing, payment and registration, and electronic declarations with versioning.
