What is CSA

The Customs Self Assessment (CSA) is a CBSA program which gives approved importers the benefits of a streamlined accounting and payment process for all imported goods. As an alternative clearance stream for low-risk, high-volume imports, CSA essentially shifts customs accounting and payment away from single transactions in favor of an approach based on monthly reporting.

CSA is the first step in becoming FAST approved northbound into Canada. Much like FAST, the carrier, driver and importer all must be CSA approved.

When an importer becomes a CSA registered member, they must use a CSA approved carrier and a CSA registered driver to bring shipments into Canada. This process will end the need for customs paperwork to be processed by drivers on CSA loads. A CSA approved driver hauling a CSA load must show a photo identification card at the customs booth to enter the country without having to clear the load. All paperwork must be done in advance. Bills signed by the consignee will be proof-of-delivery and considered 'release of the load' by Canada Customs

Benefits of Certification?..

Benefits of the CSA process for Canadian drivers include:

Speed & efficiency at customs

Minimal paperwork to provide at customs

Compliance with Canadian Custom

Automatic Access to the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program.

Streamlined clearance option for CSA eligible goods

The streamlined clearance option eliminates the requirement for any transactional transmissions of data related to eligible goods.

Expeditied Clearance Times

significantly reduced enforcement and compliance inspections