CBSA examinations

Vancouver’s leader in trucking and warehousing looks into Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) examinations and the costs associated. Stay up to date with the latest industry requirements and save money and time when importing goods.

Importing goods into Canada has been a tough road to navigate for many these past few years. From sourcing in-stock products and shipping to finally having the goods arrive is an ongoing challenge. However, there’s one more pause that might throw a wrench into your timeline, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) examinations. We’re here to explain all the details and costs associated with these examinations and how they can affect your imports.

Why are my goods being selected for further inspection?

The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) is mandated to ensure that all goods entering Canada do not pose a risk to the health, safety, and security of Canadians, while facilitating the free flow of legitimate goods. Most import shipments are processed and authorized by CBSA to enter Canada without delay. However, a small percentage of cargo will undergo an examination with some selected randomly and others due to the following reasons.

• Shipper or Importer’s History – previous non-compliance or first-time importer 
• Category of Goods
• Country of Origin or Export

How long does it take for a container examination to be conducted?

The CBSA’s Marine Container Examination Service Standard states that the CBSA will strive to conduct a marine container examination within 24 hours. However, the entire process tends to require more time.

What are the different types of examinations?

Containers entering Canada may be subject to three different types of examinations. This includes Large scale imaging (LSI) examinations, dockside exams, and Marine Container Examination Facility (MCEF) exams.

Containers that are transported from the port to the MCEF for a thorough and intrusive exam will undergo:

• Fumigant testing/ventilation – Containers are tested for the presence of toxic chemicals and will undergo a ventilation process if unsafe levels are detected
• Offload – Warehouse operator will offload the container
• Examination – Marine container exam will be conducted
• Reload – Warehouse operator will reload the container once all risk is mitigated

Where does the examination take place?

A second container examination facility, in addition to the one in Burnaby, was opened in June 2019 at Roberts Bank with the support of the Tsawwassen First Nations. This was built to facilitate the growth of Canadian trade and to help reduce traffic emissions as its location is closer to the port.

What are the costs of examinations?

CBSA does not collect any fee for examinations. However, there are various key stakeholders involved in the process that do charge for their services. This includes drayage, carrier detention, demurrage and warehouse services to unload and load. 

Cargo can typically stay at the terminal for free for 4-5 days. Delays beyond these few days will result in late fees known as demurrage. Another “late” fee that can also kick in is called detention. This is when a carrier is late in returning an empty container to the terminal. 

Charges, fees, and stress can definitely escalate quickly, especially in our current logistics landscape. This is why it’s important to have experienced business partners working for you. They will have the most up-to-date information to help you navigate and pivot quickly when needed. 

As a leader in the trucking and warehousing industry in Metro Vancouver for over 30 years, our clients trust us for their trucking and warehousing needs. We understand the importance of being on top of the latest industry requirements and have helped our clients save money, time, and stress. Our experienced team at Sandhar Trucking is always ready to answer any questions.

We are one of the few trucking companies in Vancouver, BC that services all ports/rails, operate a bonded warehouse, and has a fleet of 5-ton trucks, flat-decks and 53’ trailers. At Sandhar Trucking, we are truly a one-stop-shop for all your transportation needs.
Whether you’re in need of container trucking, LTL/FTL services in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, or Quebec, or a bonded sufferance warehouse, our team is here to serve you. Contact us today at (604)-276-9044 or info@sandhartrucking.com today to learn more.