Vancouver’s leading trucking and warehousing company explains CBSA examinations.
BC’s leading trucking and warehousing company explains CBSA examinations – import with confidence!
Importing goods into Canada and being prepared for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) examinations go hand in hand. Canadian businesses understand the importance of being ready for examinations prior to their goods arriving at the Port of Vancouver. These exams may seem overwhelming or intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be. By having the right tools and supports in place and a thorough knowledge of the entire process beforehand, you’ll feel confident in navigating through any CBSA examination.
The Selection Process
CBSA’s mandate is to ensure that all goods coming into Canada do not pose a risk to the health, safety, or security of Canadians while promoting a continuous flow of legitimate goods. A majority of imported goods are processed and authorized by CBSA to enter Canada without delay. However, some are subject to examinations before being released. Your shipment may be randomly selected for further inspection, but additional factors may also play a role in the process such as:
- Shipper or Importer’s History – previous non-compliance or first-time importer
- Category of Goods
- Country of Origin or Export
Types of Examinations
Containers that arrive at the terminal storage may be selected for one of three examination processes. Containers will be authorized to return to the terminal for delivery to the destination once examinations are complete.
Large scale imaging (LSI) examinations
This involves the use of an X-ray to quickly verify the contents inside and see whether there are any suspicious or unknown materials present. Containers may be referred to a Dockside or MCEF if deemed necessary.
Pier/Dockside examinations
CBSA officers will open container doors for a visual inspection and physically examine the cargo closest to the door. They may refer your container for a more intrusive examination at the container examination facility.
Marine Container Examination Facility (MCEF) exams
The container will be transported from the port to the MCEF for a thorough and intrusive exam. Goods will undergo:
- Fumigant testing/ventilation – The container is tested for the presence of toxic chemicals and will undergo a ventilation process if unsafe levels are detected.
- Offload – The warehouse operator will offload the container.
- Examination – A marine container exam will be conducted.
- Reload – The warehouse operator reloads the container once all risk is mitigated.
Are there any costs associated with examinations?
CBSA does not charge for their inspection services. However, there are significant costs associated with presenting a container for inspection. The importer is responsible for all fees related to moving the container to and from the CBSA and offloading and reloading containers.
Do what you do best and outsource the rest!
Tackling all the little details of importing and transporting goods may not be your strength, but having the right people working for you can make a big difference when it comes to saving time, money, and stress. Being the largest port in Canada, businesses may experience more delays at the Port of Vancouver. Whether your container is selected for a thorough CBSA examination or directed to be cleared at a local bonded sufferance warehouse in Vancouver, having an experienced freight forwarding company guide you every step of the way lets you focus on growing your business rather than navigating through red tape.
The Sandhar Difference!
Being a leading provider in container trucking and bonded sufferance warehousing in BC, we have authorized access to all major ports and rails in Metro Vancouver, 250 trailers, and our own equipment to fully support a seamless experience for all our customers. From monitoring documentation issues and free time for demurrage and detention to securing the best reservations, we are here to provide exceptional customer service 24/7!
Contact us at (604)-276-9044 or info@sandhartrucking.com for our full list of trusted freight forwarding partners! We are here to provide comprehensive solutions for all your transportation and warehousing needs! Experience the Sandhar difference today with our newly expanded 100,000 square foot facility, secured yard, container trucking, and LTL/FTL services!