---
title: Cole Blog | CDN Customs Consulting Dept. - Cole International (5)
description: Full-service logistics and customs broker with offices located in the United States and coast to coast in Canada, including all major Canada/U.S. border crossings (5)
---

<https://www.coleintl.com/>

- [About](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - [About Cole](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/mission-vision-and-values) 
          - [Mission, Vision and Values](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/mission-vision-and-values)
          - [Our History](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/history)
          - [Culture of Caring](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/culture-of-caring)
          - [Careers](https://www.coleintl.com/careers)
    - [Industries](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries) 
          - [Aerospace](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/aerospace)
          - [Agriculture](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/agriculture)
          - [Automotive](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/automotive)
          - [eCommerce](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/ecommerce)
          - [High Tech](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/high-tech)
          - [Oil & Gas](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/oil-gas)
          - [Retail](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/retail)
- [Tools & Resources](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - - - [Online Portal](https://www.coleintl.com/portal-login) 
                            - [CDN Brokerage Customers](https://clients.cole.ca/onlineportal)
                            - [U.S. Brokerage Customers](https://www-ciucal.wisegrid.net/Portals/NEO/Desktop#/login)
                            - [Freight Customers](https://ciucalwebtracker.wisegrid.net/Login/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fDefault.aspx)
          - - [Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms) 
                            - [Canadian Import Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-import-forms)
                            - [Canadian Export Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-export-forms)
                            - [Canadian Free Trade Certificates](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-free-trade-certificates)
                            - [U.S. Import Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/us-import-forms)
                            - [U.S. Export Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/us-export-forms)
    - - - [Shipping Tools](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools) 
                            - [Border Wait Times (Canada)](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html)
                            - [Border Wait Times (U.S.)](https://bwt.cbp.gov/)
                            - [Currency Converter](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/currency-converter)
                            - [Dimensional Weight Calculator](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/dimensional-weight-calculator)
                            - [Incoterms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/incoterms)
                            - [Wood Packaging Regulations](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/wood-packaging-regulations)
          - - [Knowledge Hub](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/knowledge-hub) 
                            - [FAQs & Lingo](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/faq)
                            - [Downloadable Guides](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/knowledge-hub/downloadable-guides/)
                            - [Import Foundations](https://blog.coleintl.com/import-foundations)
                            - [Freight Fundamentals](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals)
    - - - [Resources](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources) 
                            - [eManifest](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/emanifest)
                            - [Single Window Initiative (SWI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/single-window-initiative-swi)
                            - [Videos: Tips & Tricks](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oW_PP77Umw5r0X9OWpGmQ)
          - - [Stay Connected](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected) 
                            - [Cole Blog](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog)
                            - [Trade News](https://blog.coleintl.com/tradenews)
          - [Request Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)
- [Services](https://www.coleintl.com/services) 
    - - [Custom Brokerage](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage) 
                  - [Importing into Canada](https://www.coleintl.com/canadian-customs-brokerage) 
                            - [CBSA/CARM Importer Requirements](https://www.coleintl.com/carm)
                            - [Single Window Initiative (SWI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/single-window-initiative-swi)
                  - [Importing into the U.S.](https://www.coleintl.com/u-s-customs-brokerage)
                  - Importing Vehicles 
                            - [Into Canada](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/importing-vehicles/importing-vehicles-into-canada)
                            - [Into U.S.](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/importing-vehicles/importing-vehicles-into-u-s)
                  - [Non-Resident Importers (NRI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/non-resident-importers)
                  - [Fulfillment By Amazon](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/fulfillment-by-amazon)
    - [Freight Forwarding](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding) 
          - [Shipping by Ground](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/ground-shipping)
          - [Shipping by Ocean](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/ocean-shipping)
          - [Shipping by Air](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/air-shipping)
          - [Large Scale Project Moves](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/project-logistics-management)
    - [Trade Consulting](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting) 
          - [Customs & Compliance](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/customs-compliance)
          - [Free Trade Agreements](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/free-trade-agreements)
          - [Audit & Verification Support](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/audit-response-unit-aru)
          - [Large Scale Project Moves](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/project-logistics-management)
- [Client Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - - [CARM](https://www.coleintl.com/carm)
          - [eManifest](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/emanifest)
          - [Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms)
          - [Online Portal](https://www.coleintl.com/portal-login)
    - - [Payment Options](https://www.coleintl.com/payment-options)
          - [Stay Connected](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected)
          - [Videos: Tips & Tricks](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oW_PP77Umw5r0X9OWpGmQ)

- Français
- [Request Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)
- [Carrier Tools](https://www.coleintl.com/carrier-tools)

[Contact Us](https://www.coleintl.com/contact-us) [Get a Quote](https://www.coleintl.com/get-a-quote)

[![cole](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/cole_int_h_rgb.svg "cole")](https://www.coleintl.com/)

- [About](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - [About Cole](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/mission-vision-and-values) 
          - [Mission, Vision and Values](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/mission-vision-and-values)
          - [Our History](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/history)
          - [Culture of Caring](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/culture-of-caring)
          - [Careers](https://www.coleintl.com/careers)
    - [Industries](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries) 
          - [Aerospace](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/aerospace)
          - [Agriculture](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/agriculture)
          - [Automotive](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/automotive)
          - [eCommerce](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/ecommerce)
          - [High Tech](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/high-tech)
          - [Oil & Gas](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/oil-gas)
          - [Retail](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/retail)
- [Tools & Resources](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - - - [Online Portal](https://www.coleintl.com/portal-login) 
                            - [CDN Brokerage Customers](https://clients.cole.ca/onlineportal)
                            - [U.S. Brokerage Customers](https://www-ciucal.wisegrid.net/Portals/NEO/Desktop#/login)
                            - [Freight Customers](https://ciucalwebtracker.wisegrid.net/Login/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fDefault.aspx)
          - - [Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms) 
                            - [Canadian Import Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-import-forms)
                            - [Canadian Export Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-export-forms)
                            - [Canadian Free Trade Certificates](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-free-trade-certificates)
                            - [U.S. Import Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/us-import-forms)
                            - [U.S. Export Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/us-export-forms)
    - - - [Shipping Tools](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools) 
                            - [Border Wait Times (Canada)](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html)
                            - [Border Wait Times (U.S.)](https://bwt.cbp.gov/)
                            - [Currency Converter](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/currency-converter)
                            - [Dimensional Weight Calculator](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/dimensional-weight-calculator)
                            - [Incoterms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/incoterms)
                            - [Wood Packaging Regulations](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/wood-packaging-regulations)
          - - [Knowledge Hub](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/knowledge-hub) 
                            - [FAQs & Lingo](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/faq)
                            - [Downloadable Guides](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/knowledge-hub/downloadable-guides/)
                            - [Import Foundations](https://blog.coleintl.com/import-foundations)
                            - [Freight Fundamentals](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals)
    - - - [Resources](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources) 
                            - [eManifest](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/emanifest)
                            - [Single Window Initiative (SWI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/single-window-initiative-swi)
                            - [Videos: Tips & Tricks](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oW_PP77Umw5r0X9OWpGmQ)
          - - [Stay Connected](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected) 
                            - [Cole Blog](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog)
                            - [Trade News](https://blog.coleintl.com/tradenews)
          - [Request Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)
- [Services](https://www.coleintl.com/services) 
    - - [Custom Brokerage](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage) 
                  - [Importing into Canada](https://www.coleintl.com/canadian-customs-brokerage) 
                            - [CBSA/CARM Importer Requirements](https://www.coleintl.com/carm)
                            - [Single Window Initiative (SWI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/single-window-initiative-swi)
                  - [Importing into the U.S.](https://www.coleintl.com/u-s-customs-brokerage)
                  - Importing Vehicles 
                            - [Into Canada](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/importing-vehicles/importing-vehicles-into-canada)
                            - [Into U.S.](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/importing-vehicles/importing-vehicles-into-u-s)
                  - [Non-Resident Importers (NRI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/non-resident-importers)
                  - [Fulfillment By Amazon](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/fulfillment-by-amazon)
    - [Freight Forwarding](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding) 
          - [Shipping by Ground](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/ground-shipping)
          - [Shipping by Ocean](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/ocean-shipping)
          - [Shipping by Air](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/air-shipping)
          - [Large Scale Project Moves](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/project-logistics-management)
    - [Trade Consulting](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting) 
          - [Customs & Compliance](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/customs-compliance)
          - [Free Trade Agreements](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/free-trade-agreements)
          - [Audit & Verification Support](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/audit-response-unit-aru)
          - [Large Scale Project Moves](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/project-logistics-management)
- [Client Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - - [CARM](https://www.coleintl.com/carm)
          - [eManifest](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/emanifest)
          - [Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms)
          - [Online Portal](https://www.coleintl.com/portal-login)
    - - [Payment Options](https://www.coleintl.com/payment-options)
          - [Stay Connected](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected)
          - [Videos: Tips & Tricks](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oW_PP77Umw5r0X9OWpGmQ)

[Contact Us](https://www.coleintl.com/contact-us) [Get a Quote](https://www.coleintl.com/get-a-quote)

- [Home](https://www.coleintl.com/)
- [About](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - [About Cole](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/mission-vision-and-values) 
          - [Mission, Vision and Values](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/mission-vision-and-values)
          - [Our History](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/history)
          - [Culture of Caring](https://www.coleintl.com/about/about-cole/culture-of-caring)
          - [Careers](https://www.coleintl.com/careers)
    - [Industries](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries) 
          - [Oil & Gas](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/oil-gas)
          - [Automotive](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/automotive)
          - [Retail](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/retail)
          - [Agriculture](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/agriculture)
          - [High Tech](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/high-tech)
          - [eCommerce](https://www.coleintl.com/about/industries/ecommerce)
- [Services](https://www.coleintl.com/services) 
    - [Custom Brokerage](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage) 
          - [Canadian Customs Brokerage](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage) 
                  - [Cross-border Imports from U.S. into Canada](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/cross-border-imports-from-u-s-into-canada)
                  - [Canadian Imports by Ocean/Air](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/canadian-imports-by-ocean-or-air)
                  - [CARM](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/carm)
                  - [Single Window Initiative (SWI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/single-window-initiative-swi)
          - [U.S. Customs Brokerage](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/u-s-customs-brokerage) 
                  - [Cross-border Imports from Canada into the U.S.](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/u-s-customs-brokerage/cross-border-imports-from-canada-into-the-u-s)
                  - [U.S. Imports by Ocean/Air](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/u-s-customs-brokerage/u-s-imports-by-ocean-or-air)
          - [Free Trade Agreements](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/free-trade-agreements)
          - Importing Vehicles 
                  - [Into Canada](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/importing-vehicles/importing-vehicles-into-canada)
                  - [Into U.S.](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/importing-vehicles/importing-vehicles-into-u-s)
          - [Non-Resident Importers (NRI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/non-resident-importers)
          - [Fulfillment By Amazon](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/fulfillment-by-amazon)
    - [Freight Forwarding](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding) 
          - [International Ocean/Air](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding/international-ocean-air)
          - [Cross-border/Domestic Freight](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding/cross-border-domestic-freight)
          - [Project Logistics Management](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding/project-logistics-management)
    - [Trade Consulting](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting) 
          - [Canadian Customs & Compliance](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/canadian-customs-compliance)
          - [Audit Response Unit (ARU)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/audit-response-unit-aru)
          - [U.S. Customs & Compliance](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/us-customs-compliance)
          - [Project Logistics Management](https://www.coleintl.com/services/trade-consulting/project-logistics-management)
- [Tools & Resources](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - [Online Portal](https://www.coleintl.com/portal-login) 
          - [CDN Brokerage Customers](https://www5.cole.ca/onlineportal/)
          - [U.S. Brokerage & Freight Customers](https://ciucalwebtracker.wisegrid.net/Login/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fDefault.aspx)
          - [CDN Consulting Customers](https://www5.cole.ca/complianceportal/home.do)
    - [Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms) 
          - [Canadian Import Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-import-forms)
          - [Canadian Export Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-export-forms)
          - [Canadian Free Trade Certificates](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/canadian-free-trade-certificates)
          - [U.S. Import Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/us-import-forms)
          - [U.S. Export Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms/us-export-forms)
    - [Shipping Tools](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools) 
          - [Dimensional Weight Calculator](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/dimensional-weight-calculator)
          - [Currency Converter](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/currency-converter)
          - [Border Wait Times (Canada)](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html)
          - [International Commercial Terms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/incoterms)
          - [Wood Packaging Regulations](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/shipping-tools/wood-packaging-regulations)
          - [Border Wait Times (U.S.)](https://bwt.cbp.gov/)
    - [FAQ](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/faq) 
          - [Learn More](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/faq/learn-more)
          - [Overall Service Brochure](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/faq/overall-service-brochure)
          - [Services](https://www.coleintl.com/services)
    - [Resources](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources) 
          - [Single Window Initiative (SWI)](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/single-window-initiative-swi)
          - [eManifest](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/emanifest)
          - [Incoterms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/incoterms)
          - [Payment Options](https://www.coleintl.com/payment-options)
    - [Stay Connected](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected) 
          - [Cole Blog](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog)
          - [CDN Trade News](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected/cdn-trade-news)
          - [U.S. Trade News](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected/usa-trade-news)
    - [eCommunications](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)
    - [Request Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)
- [Client Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#) 
    - [CARM](https://www.coleintl.com/services/custom-brokerage/canadian-customs-brokerage/carm)
    - [eManifest](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/resources/emanifest)
    - [Forms](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/forms)
    - [Payment Options](https://www.coleintl.com/payment-options)
    - [Online Portal](https://www.coleintl.com/portal-login)
    - [Stay Connected](https://www.coleintl.com/tools-resources/stay-connected)
- [Request Info](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)
- [Carrier Tools](https://www.coleintl.com/carrier-tools)
- [Contact Us](https://www.coleintl.com/contact-us)
- [Get a Quote](https://www.coleintl.com/get-a-quote)
- [Français](https://www.coleintl.com/services#)

×

### Request Info

# Cole Blog

 Manage your supply chain with greater control

 We share hands-on advice for everyday trade and logistics challenges. Access insights and actionable strategies that drive certainty, continuity, and compliance across your operations.

---

## [Single Window Initiative (SWI) - Survival Guide #2: Beef and Pork](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/swi-survival-guide-2-beef-and-pork)

 Published: May 29,2019

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Website/Blog%20Images/SWI/Windows/SWI_Series_02_2019-1.png)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/swi-survival-guide-2-beef-and-pork)

The new SWI landscape The Single Window Initiative means several changes for importers:

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/swi-survival-guide-2-beef-and-pork)

## [Important changes to the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/important-changes-to-the-administrative-monetary-penalty-system-amps)

 Published: April 17,2019

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/PenaltyChargeNotice_115882614_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/important-changes-to-the-administrative-monetary-penalty-system-amps)

On April 1, 2019, increased penalty fees for 22 of the 152 AMPS contraventions were announced. Why? The Auditor General of Canada criticized the CBSA’s penalties for being too low to improve compliance with trade programs. The new stiffer fines are intended to keep commercial clients walking the straight and narrow.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/important-changes-to-the-administrative-monetary-penalty-system-amps)

## [Cole’s Guide to the New Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/coles-guide-to-the-new-safe-food-for-canadians-regulations-scfr-1)

 Published: April 10,2019

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/52848976_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/coles-guide-to-the-new-safe-food-for-canadians-regulations-scfr-1)

The Government of Canada released its new Safe Food for Canadians Act and Regulations on January 15, 2019. Consolidating 14 sets of food regulations into one, the updates aim to overcome risks and challenges related to the speed, volume and complexity of current food production. Some requirements (such as licensing).

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/coles-guide-to-the-new-safe-food-for-canadians-regulations-scfr-1)

## [Customs Rulings and how they work!](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/customs-rulings-and-how-they-work)

 Published: March 6,2019

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/knowledge_is_power_30221152_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/customs-rulings-and-how-they-work)

There's a lot to know about moving goods across the border. The customs landscape—riddled with complex processes and mired in legalese and industry lingo—can be perplexing and frustrating. Nevertheless, importers need to do it right—by knowing their roles and responsibilities and, sometimes, by seeking professional.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/customs-rulings-and-how-they-work)

## [Becoming a Non-Resident Importer (NRI): Is it time?](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/becoming-a-non-resident-importer-is-it-time)

 Published: February 13,2019

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/BP_Beneifits%20of%20becoming%20an%20NRI_86778138_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/becoming-a-non-resident-importer-is-it-time)

Becoming a non-resident importer—or NRI—is something you may want to consider if you or your company reside outside of Canada but want to enjoy the same ease at the border as Canadian importers do.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/becoming-a-non-resident-importer-is-it-time)

## [Blockchain, Distributed Ledgers and Data – Oh My!](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/blockchain-and-distributed-ledgers)

 Published: December 12,2018

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Blog%20Images/BP_Blockchain%20and%20distributed%20leadgers_46594379_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/blockchain-and-distributed-ledgers)

Technology is king. More and more aspects of our lives are going digital and online. Not surprisingly, the shipping industry is being swept up in the tech wave, too. Have you heard of blockchain? It’s starting to catch on among shipping companies as a way to encrypt, store and transmit data.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/blockchain-and-distributed-ledgers)

## [U.S. Steel and Aluminum Surtax](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/us-steel-and-aluminum-surtax)

 Published: October 24,2018

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Blog%20Images/BP_US%20Steel%20and%20Aluminum%20Surtax_59016832_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/us-steel-and-aluminum-surtax)

As many Canadian importers know, Canada applies a surtax to many goods of U.S. origin that were previously duty-free, including steel and aluminum. This was done as a countermeasure to the U.S. adding tariffs on many Canadian products in 2018.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/us-steel-and-aluminum-surtax)

## [CBSA’s latest Targeted Verification Priorities is out. Are your goods on the list?](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/cbsa-targeted-verification-priorities-july-2018)

 Published: July 25,2018

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Blog%20Images/BP_CBSA%20verf%20trends_July%202018_55613538_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/cbsa-targeted-verification-priorities-july-2018)

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) targets specific industries and products for extra attention at the border to ensure importers are compliant with requirements for tariff classification, product valuation and country of origin.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/cbsa-targeted-verification-priorities-july-2018)

## [GST Direct Payment for Importers - Reduce Your Burden](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/gst-direct-payment-for-importers)

 Published: June 6,2018

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Blog%20Images/Blog_GST%20Direct%20Payment%20for%20Importers_123rf_41856879_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/gst-direct-payment-for-importers)

As a commercial importer, you know all about your obligations to pay GST on the goods you bring into the country.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/gst-direct-payment-for-importers)

## [Maintaining Your Records](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/maintaining-your-records)

 Published: May 30,2018

[![](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Website/Blog%20Images/Checklist_43403466_s.jpg)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/maintaining-your-records)

Compliance Customs compliance is an essential part of every import business. Being compliant means being aware of – and abiding by – the laws and policies regulating imports and exports. Savvy importers adopt comprehensive company-wide compliance practices and keep on top of regulatory changes to adapt as necessary.

[Read more](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/maintaining-your-records)

[![Sign-Up | Cole Blog](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/4433425/af258771-f192-4291-ac1c-682ec2fd4fc1.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/4433425/af258771-f192-4291-ac1c-682ec2fd4fc1)

### Latest Articles

- [Chinese holidays that disrupt shipping from China every year](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/chinese-holidays-that-disrupt-shipping-from-china-every-year)
- [13 strategies to reduce your transportation costs](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/13-strategies-to-reduce-your-transportation-costs)
- [4 mistakes to avoid when declaring value for duty](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/4-mistakes-to-avoid-when-declaring-value-for-duty)
- [Why 'reason to believe' catches Canadian importers off guard](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/why-reason-to-believe-catches-canadian-importers-off-guard)
- [When and how to change a customs entry after import](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/when-and-how-to-change-a-customs-entry-after-import)

### Archive

- [April 2026 (4)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/archive/2026/04)
- [March 2026 (5)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/archive/2026/03)
- [February 2026 (6)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/archive/2026/02)
- [January 2026 (5)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/archive/2026/01)
- [December 2025 (3)](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/archive/2025/12)

[Connect with us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cole-international) [Follow us on X](https://twitter.com/coleintl) [Like us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/coleinternational/) [Subscribe to our YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oW_PP77Umw5r0X9OWpGmQ)

[Get a quote](https://www.coleintl.com/get-a-quote)

 Page 5 of 7

- <https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/1>
- <https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/4>
- [1](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/1)
- [...](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/1)
- [3](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/3)
- [4](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/4)
- [5](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/5)
- [6](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/6)
- [7](https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/7)
- <https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/6>
- <https://blog.coleintl.com/blog/author/cdn-customs-consulting-dept-cole-international/page/7>

[![cole](https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/cole-logo-horizontal-white.svg "cole")](https://www.coleintl.com/)

Cole International is a logistics solutions provider offering a full spectrum of services from customs brokerage, transportation, warehousing and trade consulting.

#### Contact us today

- [Phone: 403-262-2771](tel:4032622771)
- [Toll Free: 1-800-313-4281](tel:18003134281)
- Fax: 403-262-7301
- Accounting Fax: 403-262-8039

#### Corporate office

 1111 49 Avenue NE  
Calgary, AB, Canada  
T2E 8V2

P.O. Box 2718, Station M  
Calgary, AB, Canada  
T2P 3C2

#### Stay connected

- <https://twitter.com/coleintl>
- <https://www.linkedin.com/company/cole-international>
- <https://www.facebook.com/coleinternational/>
- <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5oW_PP77Umw5r0X9OWpGmQ>
- <https://www.instagram.com/coleinternational/>

[![Image](https://coleintl.b-cdn.net/uploads/2025/10/02/mullen-group-white-logo-cropped.svg)](https://www.mullen-group.com/)

Cole International Inc. is a subsidiary of Mullen Group Ltd.

[![ciffa](https://blog.coleintl.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/ciffa-logo.png?width=106&height=30&name=ciffa-logo.png)](https://ciffa.com/) [![ciffa](https://blog.coleintl.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/FIATA-Logo.png?width=54&height=50&name=FIATA-Logo.png)](http://fiata.com/) [![ciffa](https://blog.coleintl.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/ncbfaa-logo.png?width=154&height=36&name=ncbfaa-logo.png)](https://www.ncbfaa.org/) [![marco polo line](https://blog.coleintl.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/marco-polo-line-logo.png?width=136&height=58&name=marco-polo-line-logo.png)](https://www.marcopololine.com/) [![cscb](https://blog.coleintl.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/WcTest_August2021/images/cscb-logo.png?width=85&height=36&name=cscb-logo.png)](https://cscb.ca/)

© 2026 Cole International. All Rights Reserved.

- [Payment Options](https://www.coleintl.com/payment-options.php)
- [Legal](https://www.coleintl.com/legal.php)
- [Service Terms](https://www.coleintl.com/service-terms.php)
- [Accessibility](https://www.coleintl.com/services.php#)