Gaining a better understanding of the fundamentals of the customs process is a key first step towards achieving increased levels of compliance with the complex array of rules and regulations applicable to the import and export of goods. With this in mind, drawing from our past seminar programs, the following information is provided as an introduction to different aspects of the customs process for those who are relatively new to international trade, as well as for the benefit of individuals still somewhat unfamiliar with the “nuts and bolts” of various customs basics that are an essential component of importing and exporting.

Understanding your responsibilities under the Customs Act for providing accurate information, what you can do to help mitigate risk and how to respond if you your company is selected for a CBSA Trade Compliance Verification.  

A general overview of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS) including its general structure, the legal framework and interpretive rules that guide its operation, examples of how the HS is used in practice, and explanations of how it impacts your import/export activities. 

A step-by-step guide to proper completion of the NAFTA Certificate of Origin along with explanatory notes to help you avoid commonly made mistakes.  

An introduction to the CBSA civil penalty regime that secures compliance with customs legislation through the application of monetary penalties. AMPS authorizes the CBSA to assess fines for the contravention of customs legislative, regulatory and program requirements.  

10 + 2 requires both importers and carriers to submit additional cargo information before the cargo is loaded on US-bound vessels. This rule describes how importers will report 10 additional items of information on cargo shipped to the United States, while the carrier provides two more data sets.