Our Blogs
How to Save Time and Money with Efficient Customs Clearance
The importance of efficient and timely customs clearance is explored.
Proposed Changes to Calculating Duty
CBSA has proposed radical changes to the way goods will be valued for tax purposes. Find out more here!
BC Longshore Workers Strike
Longshore workers in British Columbia have been on strike since July 1st. What role do they play in Canada’s supply chain?
Importing Rice into Canada
Canada imports tons of rice to help feed domestic demand. Here’s where you can find the info on what you need to do to import rice into Canada.
How to Calculate the Value of your Goods
CBSA accepts the calculation of the value of imported goods in various ways. Here are the different calculations that can be used.
Canada Announces a Ban on Russian Aluminum and Steel Products
Canada has announced a ban on imports of Russian aluminum and steel, effective immediately. Find out more…
Canada Bans Single-Use Plastics
Canada has banned the import, export and sale of certain single-use plastics. Take a look at what products are affected and when the ban will be phased in.
Key Players Involved When Importing Into Canada
There are many parties involved when you import goods into Canada. Here is where you can find out who they are and the role they play.
A Guide to Importing Jewellery Into Canada
Importing jewellery into Canada can be easy if you know the process. Here’s where you can find helpful tips.
Guide to Choosing the Right Product to Import
Can’t figure out what goods you want to import into Canada? Our latest blog offers helpful tips to guide importers that are looking to start!
Protection against Counterfeit Goods Imports
Counterfeit Goods are a major problem in Canada. Here are some tools the CBSA has to protect against imports of counterfeit goods.
Importing Goods into Canada
There is are many things to know when importing goods into Canada. Here is an overview of some of what you should be aware of.
When Do You Need A Customs Broker?
We look at the role Customs Brokers play in the supply chain and what services can be of use to importers in Canada.
Top Reasons for Delay with CFIA Regulated Goods
Delays in importing CFIA regulated goods can be avoided by taking some simple steps.
How to get a better price when importing goods into Canada
Canada imported goods worth a record $631 billion in 2021, up 12.2% from 2020, but 2.7% higher than in 2019.
How to Avoid Hidden Costs in Overseas Freight Shipping
While we cannot do much about the global shipping crisis, it is good to know how shipping costs are calculated, what are the hidden costs in overseas freight shipping and how to avoid these costs wherever legally possible
7 Things Customs Agents Wish You Knew Before You Travel To Canada
Are you planning a trip to Canada soon? Whether you are just visiting someone in Canada or if you are planning to move to Canada for studies or immigration. You need to be aware of what you can bring on your trip to Canada. Here are 7 things Customs Agents wish you knew before you travel to Canada.
How to Choose a Customs Broker
How to Choose a Customs Broker When it comes to shipping your goods, you want to make sure that you are working with the best…
Things Everyone Who Orders Online From Canada Should Know About Customs And Shipping
In this article we have mentioned a list of things you should be aware of if you plan to purchase goods online from retailers outside Canada.
10 Tips for moving and importing your belongings to Canada
Tips for moving your personal goods to Canada from Orbit Brokers, Toronto’s top rated Canadian Customs Broker
Trade Tensions Bubbling Between Canada and the US
Canada is concerned an electric vehicle tax incentive from the US could cause harm to the Canadian economy.
Upcoming Changes to HS Codes
The World Customs Organization is updating the Harmonized Coding system in 2022. Here’s where you can find what changes will be coming.
Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS)
The Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) is a vital part of the importation process in Canada. Find out how your truck freight benefits!
Supply Chain Bottlenecks
Supply Chain Bottlenecks are causing costly delays to consumers. Find out why they are happening and what is being done to address them.
Driving Across the Canada/US Border
Canada has opened its border to non-essential travel to certain Americans. The US has extended its border closure with Canada.
Canada Border Services Agency Strike
Canada Border Services Agency employees have announced a strike as of August 6, 2021. Find out how this will effect people and imported goods into Canad
Enrolling in CARM
Looking to enroll in the CARM Client Portal? Here’s the guidance you need to register.
Canada’s Tariff Rate Quota System
Canada uses Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQ) to limit the potential impact of certain imported goods.
Importer Security Bonds
Importer Security Bonds have several benefits. This blog posts takes a look at those benefits and how to obtain one.
Joe Biden and Trade with Canada
With a new President in the Oval Office, what changes can we expect in the US-Canada trade relationship?
Importing Goods for Valentine’s Day
Here’s what you need to know about importing popular Valentine’s Day items into Canada.
CITT Inquiry into Upholstered Seating
The CITT is investigating if imported sofas are a threat to the domestic industry. Take a look at what that means.
Importing Goods for Personal Use
Personal shipments are goods imported by individuals for their own use. We provide some clarity on what to expect with personal shipments.
Trump Abandons Latest Tariff Threat
America has withdrawn the 10% tariff threat against Canadian aluminum imports
Changes to Courier Shipments under CUSMA
Find out how Low Value Shipments coming into Canada via select couriers are affected by CUSMA
Importing Brewery Equipment into Canada
What you need to know to import brewery equipment, beer ingredients, and glassware
Proof of Origin for CUSMA Shipments
CUSMA comes into force July 1st, 2020. Find out what you need to provide to obtain duty free imports.
Classification of Medical Supplies
Find out how to classify personal protective equipment imported into Canada.
Importing Masks and Sanitizers
Masks and sanitizers are a popular item these days. Find out about the requirements to import these products into Canada.
Will the Coronavirus Affect Shipments?
The Coronavirus is affecting people around the world, however what is the effect is it having on shipments to and from Canada?
CARM – An Introduction
CARM will affect how all importers that bring goods into Canada remit payment to CRA.
What Does a Customs Broker Do?
Customs Brokers can help with any aspect of the supply chain, from international freight to local delivery. See how Orbit Brokers can help you.
Documentation for Air Shipments
Importing goods by air means the shipments get here fast. Find out the documentation requirements.
Brexit and Canadian Trade
What is Brexit and how will it affect Canadian trade with Britain?
Bonded Cargo
What is bonded cargo and how can it help reduce or defer duties on imports into Canada?
Classification of Backpacks
Due to a Canadian International Trade Tribunal ruling, the CBSA has issued a notice detailing how to classify backpacks
How America’s President can Trump Canada’s Small Businesses
Recent moves by President Donald Trump could have massive effect on the shipping charges Canadian businesses pay for small packages
What is SFCR?
Importing food into Canada? Read on to find out more about the new Safe Food for Canadians Regulations.
Personal Travel Exemptions
Here is what you need to know about bringing personal goods back to Canada after traveling out of the country.
Importing Beef Into Canada from the US
Importing beef products into Canada from the US can seem daunting. Here’s some basic information on what is required.
What you Should Know: AMPS
CBSA has had a monetary penalty system in place against importers since 2002. Here’s what you should know about AMPS.
What is a Steamship Release?
Steamship release of your ocean shipment imports is an important step you will need to take before you can get your goods.
How to Avoid Demurrage, Detention, and Storage Charges
Demurrage, detention, and storage charges are the focus of our latest blog. Read on to find out what they are and how you can avoid them.
Canada’s Newest Trade Agreement – CPTPP
CPTPP is now in force. See what this means for Canada and how your imports will benefit.
What is a B3?
The CBSA B3 coding form is a document required to assist in properly declaring, classifying and accounting for commercial goods that are imported into Canada.
The Importance of Proper Textile Labelling
When importing textile goods into Canada, it is vital to pay close attention to the labelling. Textile Labelling Act is in place to protect consumers from false labelling/advertising of textile fibre products.
5 Things to Know about USMCA
Canada has joined a free trade agreement with the US and Mexico called USMCA. There are 5 important items that you should know about this deal.
What are the Benefits of NAFTA?
NAFTA negotiations are in the spotlight these days. Read on to find out what NAFTA actually is.
Why Are My Shipments Being Held for Customs Examination?
Customs examinations are conducted by Canada Border Services Agency for a variety of reasons. Read on to find out more.
Importing Fresh Fruits and Vegetables into Canada
Importing fresh produce into Canada? Read on to find out the rules, regulations and requirements.
Trade War
NAFTA talks have fallen apart and President Trump has instituted new tariffs against Canada and Mexico. Find out what this means and what happens next.
CBSA Compliance Audits Part 2
Part 2 of our look at CBSA audits details the process of the audit and the reports you will receive.
CBSA Compliance Audits Part 1
Part 1 of our blog on CBSA compliance audits looks at how to avoid running into difficulties in case you get audited.
What are Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duties?
Certain goods are deemed to be a threat to Canadian industries and as such, Canada puts up protective measures. For importers, these are referred to as anti-dumping and countervailing duties.
What is the duty on…
“What is the duty rate on (insert item here)” is the most common question we get asked, right after “Hi, how are you?” The duty rate can affect the cost of the goods you import and helps determine if it makes sense financially to import the goods.
What You Should Know: How CETA and the CPTPP Affect You
Over the past few years, the Canadian government has been exploring dramatic changes through CETA and the CPTPP. With so many Canadians affected, and both deals at pivotal stages in their development, it’s important to know how these deals work, and what you can expect in the months to come.
Getting Your Personal Shipments To Canada
When importing a personal shipment into Canada, there are many requirements that must be met. Plan in advance with these simple steps.
5 Simple Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes When Importing into Canada
When importing into Canada, there are many requirements that must be met. Plan in advance and avoid costly mistakes and delays.
Importing Into Canada During the Holidays
The Holiday season is fast approaching and business need to quickly prepare their imports into Canada to guarantee a successful end of year.
What Does CETA Mean for Canadian Businesses?
Canada’s largest trade deal since NAFTA is expected to boost trade and incomes. Find out how CETA, the trade agreement between Canada and the European Union, will impact Canada.
What To Expect from the NAFTA Negotiations
The NAFTA talks have commenced and Canada is ready to implement its own changes to the agreement. Find out what the top 5 changes are.
Importing Liquor into Ontario
In 2012, a Canadian man by the name of Gerard Comeau was fined $292.50 after he imported 14 cases of beer and three bottles of liquor from a neighbouring Quebec town into his home province of New Brunswick. But why?
Stronger Together: Canada and Mexico’s Role in NAFTA Negotiations
With the Trump administration taking a harsh stance against the free trade deal, Canada and Mexico more than ever need to stick together in partnership in order to ensure its survival.
eManifest: Changing the Face of Importing in Canada
eManifest is the latest buzzword in the trade and customs industry, and it has brought rise to some questions: what exactly is eManifest, and how does it affect the importation process?
Why You Should Hire a Customs Broker
Anyone who has imported into Canada knows just how complicated the Canadian customs process can be. Here’s how a customs broker can help you along the way.
It’s All in the Details for Commercial Shipments
Customs clearance can be complex, especially if you’re not used to the process. With so many rules, regulations and restrictions in place, it can be difficult knowing what exactly is required when it comes to shipping your commercial products.
A Canadian Approach To Protectionism: SIMA And What It Can Do For You
The time has finally come. After much anticipated debate about how a first in-person meeting between Prime Minister Trudeau and his U.S. counterpart President Trump would go, we finally have a glimpse into the new dynamic relationship that will hopefully prevail. Much was discussed about trade, especially NAFTA, and by the sounds of it, the trade relationship between both countries won’t seem to wane all that much.
Trader or Traitor: The Importance of International Free Trade to Canada and the World
With Canada’s largest trading partner just a day away from a new administration, the importance of having a solid negotiation team, especially in the midst of talks involving tearing up NAFTA, is imperative to the success of the Canadian economy.
The Donald and How He Could Trumpify Your Trade
With Donald Trump poised to assume what is known as the “Most Powerful Position in the World”, many are wondering, “What next?”
CBSA, CFIA and Importing Food
The importation of food produce into Canada is a valuable industry, in which both the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) play vital roles in the supply chain.
The Benefits of a CSCB Membership
When it comes to finding a reliable customs broker in Canada, there are hundreds of different outfits to choose between, and often not much apparently separating one broker’s offering from the next.
What is a Canadian Customs Broker?
Try to recall the last time you were lining up at customs. No doubt there were various forms and declarations involved, which may have taken some time to complete, and even a bit of head scratching.
