Frequently Asked Questions

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• What do customs brokers do?
• Where are CSCB members located?
• What does the CSCB do?
• How can my company become a corporate member of the CSCB?
• How can my company become an associate member of the CSCB?

What do customs brokers do?

Customs brokers clear millions of shipments of imported goods, prepare required Customs documentation for further millions of export shipments, and collect billions of dollars in duties owing to the Crown each year. The broker acts as middle man between the importer and the government on some 80 per cent of import transactions. He makes it easier for individuals and firms to comply with complex government legislation, and makes it easier for the government to encourage and obtain compliance.

More than 170,000 importers deal with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) each year. Most rely on the services of a licensed customs broker to get their shipments cleared at the border. For each of these transactions, reams of critical business data must be generated, about everything from country of origin and destinations, to suppliers, tariff classifications, routings, and intended use. Traditionally, importers rely on customs brokers to pull that information together and clear the goods through Customs. But many importers are learning that this is only part of the story. Customs brokers are now helping importers leverage that information into a strategic advantage, turning information into critical business intelligence. They are offering a growing range of specialized services to help importers develop new product lines, explore new markets, evaluate the impact of global change, and cut costs.

Where are CSCB members located?

Member firms are located across the country. Customs brokerage firms do not need to be located at the port where goods are arriving in order to arrange the release of those goods. The list of CSCB members is available through our Corporate Members Directory.

What does the CSCB do?

The CSCB's primary task is to represent the interests of corporate members to government departments and agencies, and to work with both government and the trade community to facilitate the international movement of goods. We also are Canada's leading provider of customs education and professional development.

We actively seek and achieve improvements our members and their clients look for in government policies and procedures. We provide advice and guidance to Canadian and international regulators on new policy directions. We develop strong partnerships throughout the industry to create effective business solutions for the future. And we provide the information gathered to our members and students in a timely, effective manner.

How can my company become a corporate member of the CSCB?

Corporate membership in the CSCB is available to licensed customs brokerage firms through our Corporate Membership Application.

CSCB members work together to benefit the trade community, to access the customs and trade information that they require and to enjoy reduced rates for courses, seminars, conferences and surety products.

Please contact the national office in Ottawa if you have any questions concerning corporate membership.

How can my company become an associate member of the CSCB?

Associate membership in the CSCB is available through our Associate Membership Application to companies with an interest in customs-related matters but who are notcustoms brokers.

Associate membership brings with it opportunities for business networking, the latest information on customs-related issues, participation in meetings, and reduced tuition fees for the CSCB Certified Customs Specialist Program and other courses.

Please contact the national office in Ottawa if you have any questions concerning associate membership.