Trade Compliance
& Duty Relief
Traders supports clients in understanding and navigating trade compliance and duty relief programs. These programs help you reduce costs, streamline processes, and stay fully compliant with Canadian and U.S. customs regulations.
Use the resources below to explore programs, guides, and forms that simplify your compliance requirements.
Trade Compliance Documents
Quick access to helpful guides and documentation:
Trade Compliance – Where to Start
Trade Compliance Guide
HS Compliance Valuation Guide
Programs & Initiatives
AMPS – Administrative Monetary Penalty System
The CBSA’s penalty framework that replaces seizure and forfeiture for technical infractions with monetary penalties proportional to the type, frequency, and severity of the infraction. AMPS encourages voluntary compliance and considers compliance history. Businesses that already comply with customs legislation face no new obligations under AMPS.
FAST – Free and Secure Trade
A joint Canada–U.S. program for pre-approved importers, carriers, and registered drivers. FAST moves eligible goods quickly across the border with reduced compliance costs, faster clearance, and fewer delays.
CSA – Customs Self Assessment
A progressive trade option for approved importers who invest in compliance. CSA streamlines accounting and payment processes, allowing importers to self-assess using their own business systems — reducing compliance costs and improving operational efficiency.
PIP – Partners in Protection
A CBSA program that enhances border security through cooperation. Participating organizations sign a partnership agreement focused on security, awareness, and information sharing, and conduct self-assessments of their security processes to identify and address vulnerabilities.
CTPAT – Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism
A U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) supply chain security initiative offering reduced inspections and border wait times, liaison support with CBP, access to FAST lanes, and self-monitoring benefits that improve operational efficiency while enhancing security.
Consulting & Advance Rulings
CBSA Advance Rulings
Advance rulings provide certainty before you import. We assist with applications for:
Tariff Classification — confirm the correct tariff treatment for your goods.
Origin — determine the origin of goods for trade agreement purposes.
Valuation — ensure accurate valuation of imports for duties and taxes.
Advance rulings provide clarity and reduce compliance risk.
Tariff Classification — confirm the correct tariff treatment for your goods.
Origin — determine the origin of goods for trade agreement purposes.
Valuation — ensure accurate valuation of imports for duties and taxes.
Advance rulings provide clarity and reduce compliance risk.
HS Tariff Consulting Opinions
Expert guidance on HS tariff codes and classifications — helping you support accurate reporting, apply the correct duty treatment, and avoid misclassification penalties.
Recover Eligible Duties Through Drawback
If you import goods that are later exported, you may be able to recover duties paid. Our drawback team assists with claim preparation, waivers, and filing through the CARM Client Portal.
Compliance Questions We Hear Often
What is an advance ruling and why request one?
An advance ruling is a binding decision from the CBSA on how your goods will be treated — classification, origin, or valuation — issued before you import. It removes guesswork and reduces the risk of penalties or reassessment later.
What triggers an AMPS penalty?
Errors and infractions in customs reporting and compliance — such as inaccurate declarations or missed obligations. Penalties scale with the type, frequency, and severity of the infraction, which is why accurate classification and documentation matter. Our post-entry compliance verification audits help identify and correct issues.
Which trusted trader program is right for my business?
It depends on your role in the supply chain and your trade volume. Contact our team to discuss which programs fit your operations.
Strengthen Your Compliance Position
Email: info@traderscb.com
Phone: (905) 855-1334
