ATA Carnets for Canada

ATA Carnet Use in Canada

Canadian authorities are familiar with the Carnet process and aim to offer a quick, professional experience.  However, to maximise efficiency, consider these tips:

• Seek expert advice. While Canadian customs regulations are standardised for ATA Carnets, consulting professionals with experience in Canadian trade can provide valuable guidance. We can help navigate specific details and ensure your Carnet is properly completed for quick customs clearance.

• ATA Carnets are widely accepted at major Canadian airports and seaports. For land border crossings, our team will let you know the various rules, however, it's advisable to double-check with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to confirm acceptance.

Challenges to Consider:

• Ensure you understand Canadian regulations. While Carnets simplify customs procedures, some goods like controlled substances or those requiring permits (e.g., biosecurity concerns), might still need additional clearances from relevant Canadian agencies. Familiarise yourself with any Canadian regulations specific to your goods to avoid delays.

• Ensure you complete all sections accurately and include as much detail as needed. This includes detailed descriptions of items along with their monetary value, as well as information about how you intend to use them while in Canada. Any errors can lead to delays or refusal of entry.

Import and Export Opportunities in Canada

The use of ATA Carnets in Canada has been a positive development, thanks in part to collaborative efforts by the Canadian government and international trade organisations.

Government Initiatives The Canadian government actively participates in promoting the Carnet system. This includes coordinating the application process and collaborating with customs authorities to ensure a consistent and user-friendly experience for foreign businesses wanting to trade in Canada.

Improved Carnet Acceptance  In the past, there were some limitations on goods eligible for import/export under ATA Carnet in Canada.  Fortunately, Canadian customs regulations now align with international standards, allowing a wider range of goods to be covered by ATA Carnets. This includes:

• Commercial samples for demonstrating products at trade shows or potential clients' offices.

• Professional equipment such as tools, machinery, or instruments needed for temporary work projects in Canada.

Application Process for ATA Carnets in Canada

Our team has years of experience helping businesses and individuals successfully apply for ATA Carnets for use in Canada.

To ensure there are no delays in your application, have the following documents ready.

• A completed ATA Carnet application form.

• A detailed commercial invoice outlining the value, precise description, and quantity of goods you'll be bringing into Canada.

• A comprehensive packing list with detailed descriptions of each item you're carrying.

• Proof of ownership documentation or a letter of authorisation.

Tips for Efficiency

• Plan ahead and start the application process as far in advance as you can to avoid any last-minute delays. This allows time to address any unforeseen issues that might arise.

• Double-check all information on the application and supporting documents for accuracy. Even minor discrepancies can lead to delays during customs clearance in Canada.

• Contact us if you have any questions about the application.

What Goods Are Covered by ATA Carnets in Canada?

It's vitally important to understand what is covered by a Carnet in Canada; failing to adhere to the rules can result in a refusal of entry or a fine. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Goods Categories  Generally, Carnets use in Canada covers commercial samples and professional equipment. This includes items like product prototypes and tools for temporary work projects.

• Validity Period Carnet documents are typically valid for one year from the date of issue for flexibility during your trade activities in Canada.

ATA Carnets are designed to improve the import and export of permitted goods, however, there are exceptions:

• Certain goods like firearms or controlled substances require additional permits.

• Goods subject to biosecurity inspections might require additional permits from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

For a definitive list of acceptable goods and any specific requirements, consult with a specialist for advice and guidance.

Customs Protocol in Canada

Before you make the journey to Canada, here's a quick guide to navigate customs procedures with your ATA Carnet:

• Pre-departure requirements include Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) if you're visa-exempt.  Our team can help you with this, or, you can learn more on the Canadian Border Services website.

• An ATA Carnet doesn't eliminate the need for permits for controlled goods.  Always check with the CBSA for any additional permits required for your specific goods.

• Present your Carnet along with your passport and any required permits upon arrival.  Canadian customs officials may ask to inspect your goods, so ensure they are properly declared and match the descriptions on your Carnet.

Procedure Compliance for  Canadian ATA Carnets

Maintaining accurate records and following proper procedures are essential and include:

• An Accurate Goods List. Provide meticulous details, including model and serial numbers for equipment, and ensure quantities and descriptions align precisely with your physical inventory. Any disparities could cause delays or complications during customs clearance.

• Lost ATA Carnet Procedures  If your ATA Carnet is lost after issuance, you can obtain a substitute. The Chamber will issue an identical substitute with the same details and validity dates, marked with '(S)'. If the original Carnet was already stamped outside the UK, present the substitute to UK Customs, where the goods initially departed for retrospective stamping. Inform them of the departure date from the UK. Once stamped, you can resume normal use of the Carnet.

You should contact us or your issuing agent in the UK as soon as you notice it's lost. We can offer assistance and manage the replacement process.

Additional Considerations for ATA Carnets in Canada

While ATA Carnets provide an efficient solution for temporary imports, it's essential to keep these factors in mind:

• ATA Carnets are valid for transit operations within Canada. However, for road crossings, ensure your freight company is familiar with e-manifest requirements for electronic documentation to speed up the clearance process.

• The standard validity period for ATA Carnets is one year. However, for specific goods like film production equipment, applying for a shorter duration may be feasible. Contact us or your issuing agent in the UK to explore this option if your temporary import needs are for a shorter timeframe.

Using an ATA Carnet for trade in Canada offers businesses many benefits by reducing initial expenses, simplifying paperwork, and minimising potential delays, thus allowing faster, easier, and more cost-effective temporary imports and exports.

FAQs about ATA Carnets in Canada

Here, our team answers some of the most commonly asked questions related to Carnets for use in Canada:

How long is an ATA Carnet typically valid for when used in Canada?

Generally for one year from the date of issue in Canada. This allows for flexibility during your temporary import and export activities.  However, there may be exceptions for specific goods.  For instance, you might be able to apply for a reduced validity period for certain items like film production equipment.  It's always best to confirm the validity period with us or your issuing agent in the UK.

Do I need to pre-register my goods with Canadian customs before arrival using an ATA Carnet?

No, this is not required. The ATA Carnet itself acts as a temporary import declaration, eliminating the need for separate pre-registration.  However, you must ensure your goods are accurately listed on the Carnet document, including detailed descriptions, quantities, and any relevant serial numbers. This makes the customs clearance process more efficient upon arrival in Canada.

What happens if my ATA Carnet is lost or stolen while in Canada?

Losing your ATA Carnet in Canada can be stressful, but can be resolved:

• Get in touch with us to report the loss or theft immediately. We’ll then guide you through the process of reporting to the relevant authorities. This helps to minimise the risk of misuse.

• We will arrange for the replacement.

Important Note: While a Canadian customs office cannot issue a replacement ATA Carnet, they can accept a certified copy of the original Carnet along with a police report in some cases.

Can I use an ATA Carnet to bring in prototypes or samples to show to potential Canadian clients?

Certainly! ATA Carnets can indeed be used to bring in prototypes or samples for presentation to potential Canadian clients. This category of goods is covered by ATA Carnets, allowing duty-free importation and tax-free re-exportation, thereby simplifying the process and reducing costs. Key points to remember include accurately describing the prototypes on the Carnet and being ready to explain their intended use to customs officials.

Can an ATA Carnet be used to import promotional materials for use at a trade show in Canada?

In most cases, no. ATA Carnets are generally not accepted for consumable or disposable items, and promotional materials often fall under this category.  They are designed to be given away, which doesn't align with the temporary import requirement of ATA Carnets.

Here's why ATA Carnets might not be suitable for promotional materials:

• Carnets are intended for goods that will be re-exported from Canada after temporary use. Promotional materials distributed at trade shows are typically intended for attendees to keep.

• Canadian customs classify promotional materials as consumables since they are meant to be given away. ATA Carnets can’t be used for items that won't be leaving the country.

Alternatives for Importing Promotional Materials:

• You can choose to pay the applicable duties and taxes on your promotional materials at the border. This allows for their distribution at the trade show but adds an extra cost to your participation.

• In some cases, Canadian customs may allow the import of promotional materials under a Temporary Import Bond (TIB). This option requires a security deposit that will be refunded upon re-exportation of the materials. However, the TIB process can be more complex than using an ATA Carnet.

Additional Considerations:

Even if you choose an alternative method, remember to have a detailed inventory of your promotional materials with accurate descriptions, quantities, and values. This will expedite the customs clearance process.