Importing goods into Canada
All goods imported into Canada are subject to Provincial and Federal taxes, Duties and Excise taxes and must be cleared through Canada Customs in order for the goods to be released to the end-user. In order to manage all of the University’s imports, Procurement Services has negotiated a contract with a licensed customs broker (see below). The services provided by the customs broker incorporate payment of duties & taxes (if applicable), freight, and all other chargeable formalities, to be reimbursed by the University.
Departments expecting an urgent shipment and do not wish to encounter any delays at customs should contact Procurement Services or the University's customs broker with the waybill number, flight number, etc. Revenue Canada - Customs and Excise are entitled to spot check any shipment. They may also require further information pertaining to the shipment regardless of the declared value.
When procuring goods from suppliers outside of Canada, Canada Customs and Revenue Agency requires that certain forms (outlined below) be duly completed by the supplier and accompany the goods (attached to the waybill). Failure to do so will result in delays at customs and possibly higher duty rates.
- Canada Customs Invoice or Supplier's commercial invoice (dependant on the value)
- Certificate of Origin and HS Code
- NAFTA certificate
- Declaration for Import of Biological Products
- Import Permits and/or veterinary certificate
For further information on import regulations, please visit the Canada Revenue Agency website. |
Exporting out of Canada
The McGill Community frequently requires the export of certain goods to the US and other countries for a variety of reasons (i.e. donation, repair, research collaboration, etc.).
As each country has their own importation regulations resulting in complicated procedures and paperwork, we suggest contacting McGill's customs broker who will assist you with the process and paperwork.
Customs Broker
Thompson, Ahern & Co Ltd is McGill's contracted Customs Broker.
Please visit Thompson, Ahern & Co Ltd for a list of forms related to Custom Clearance:
- Canada Customs Invoice (CCI)
- NAFTA Certificate of Origin
- Statement of Origin for commercial importations of less than CDN $2500.00
- Export documents
Need assistance?
For any questions or more detailed information pertaining to Customs Clearance, Imports and Exports, please contact Thompson Ahern's Customer Representative, Ms. Angela Logan by telephone at 1-866-778-4460 or by email at mcgill [at] taco.ca