Customs Brokers

The following information about customs brokers is intended as a guide to ministries that require this type of service (i.e. dealing with an out of country supplier):

1. Presently all goods imported with a value of C$20 or greater require formal customs clearance.
2. Non-courier shipments (truck, air, ocean) will be held at the carrier's warehouse at the port of entry for customs clearance. The carrier will advise the Importer (YOU!) or their agent (Customs Broker) of the arrival. Under these transportation modes all shipments are held for release, regardless of value.
3. Courier shipments valued at less than C$1600 transported by couriers on the LVSC program (FEDEX, UPS, DHL) can be delivered to the Importer prior to release by customs. Proper documentation (legible invoices) and a designated broker are both requirements of this program. The Customs Broker has up to 6 weeks to present Customs with a formal entry.
4. Courier shipments valued at greater than C$1600 are treated as 2. above.
5. Canada Post shipments valued at less than C$1600 are processed automatically by Customs, charged a C$5 fee then delivered to the Importer.
6. Canada Post shipments valued at greater than C$1600 are treated as 2. above. Canada Customs mail centre will mail a letter to the Importer advising of the pending shipment. The letter, along with a copy of the invoice, needs to be faxed to the Customs Broker in order for them to file an entry.
7. The best way to ensure expeditious customs clearance is to have the supplier or shipper indicate on the invoice or bill of lading the appropriate broker contact information, and to notify the broker of the pending shipment in advance.

This link will take you to the Canadian Border Services Agency's listing of licensed customs brokers doing business in British Columbia .

To ensure a level playing field, Purchasing Services no longer recommends specific brokers to our clients. Ministries or Public Bodies requiring customs broker services are referred to this listing, and advised to contact at least three (3) of the brokers listed to compare fees for service, thus ensuring good value for government.