The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has increased enforcement activity at Canadian ports, with marine shipments facing a notable rise in examination rates. Importers relying on ocean freight should anticipate greater risks of delays, sometimes stretching from days into weeks. CBSA’s heightened activity reflects an uptick in risk indicators such as misclassification, origin concerns, undeclared goods and potential contraband. These trends have led officers to apply more rigorous screening and expand the use of targeted examinations.
Delays of two to three weeks are common when a container is selected for examination, which can create challenges for importers managing lean inventory or time-sensitive production schedules. These timelines largely reflect the scope of the review itself.
When CBSA examines a container, the process applies to the entire load, not just the shipment that triggered concern. In a consolidated container, goods move through the same review steps as every other shipment inside it. If another importer’s cargo raises a question around classification, documentation or potential risk, CBSA may extend the examination to all contents. As a result, compliant shipments can still be held until officers complete their broader assessment. While the review may not relate to your own documentation, the added time before release can still affect downstream planning.
Global trade conditions remain fluid, and customs authorities continue to refine inspection practices. Even compliant shipments can be delayed under CBSA’s expanded scrutiny. Accurate classification, reliable origin documentation, consistent administrative controls and proactive communication are essential to minimise disruption. Recommended steps:
Brian Morcombe
Charmaine Goddeeris
BDO in Canada
What Importers Need to Know
Delays of two to three weeks are common when a container is selected for examination, which can create challenges for importers managing lean inventory or time-sensitive production schedules. These timelines largely reflect the scope of the review itself.When CBSA examines a container, the process applies to the entire load, not just the shipment that triggered concern. In a consolidated container, goods move through the same review steps as every other shipment inside it. If another importer’s cargo raises a question around classification, documentation or potential risk, CBSA may extend the examination to all contents. As a result, compliant shipments can still be held until officers complete their broader assessment. While the review may not relate to your own documentation, the added time before release can still affect downstream planning.
BDO Perspective
Global trade conditions remain fluid, and customs authorities continue to refine inspection practices. Even compliant shipments can be delayed under CBSA’s expanded scrutiny. Accurate classification, reliable origin documentation, consistent administrative controls and proactive communication are essential to minimise disruption. Recommended steps:
- Communicate early: If notified of a hold, connect promptly with your trade advisor and CBSA contact to maintain visibility on next steps.
- Leverage expertise: Our Customs & International Trade Services (CITS) team can support communications, assist with CBSA requests and guide you through the process.
- Build resilience: Diversify carriers, modestly increase buffer inventory and assess alternate ports to reduce reliance on a single route.
Brian Morcombe
Charmaine Goddeeris
BDO in Canada