Importer’s quick guide for AIRS: Canada’s Automated Import Reference System (AIRS)

If you import commodities regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), you might already know a bit about the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS). This powerful tool simplifies the import process by providing detailed import requirements for your goods.

Whether you’re a seasoned importer or new to the trade, AIRS CBSA tools provide a valuable source of information. Let's look at key details for making the most of AIRS.

What is AIRS?

AIRS is a user-friendly reference tool designed to outline import requirements for CFIA-regulated commodities. By answering a series of guided questions, you can determine the necessary documentation, Harmonized System (HS) classification codes, and other import conditions specific to your products. While AIRS is an invaluable resource, it’s important to note that it serves as a reference only. Importers must also consult Canadian laws and regulations to ensure full compliance.

Getting started with AIRS

AIRS importers should consider a few key points before jumping into the system. This helps to avoid potential confusion and issues while using the system.

Reference tool only

Always verify AIRS CFIA results against official Canadian acts and regulations, along with updates that may potentially have an impact on your imports.

Check for regular updates

AIRS information is updated regularly by the CBSA, so it's worthwhile to regularly keep an eye out for significant updates.

Accuracy is key

Importers are responsible for ensuring their data is accurate at the time of importation. Since AIRS is strictly a reference tool, it's vital to confirm that the details provided through AIRS are accurate for your imports.

Searching with AIRS

You can search AIRS for import requirements in two different ways.

Find by commodity

Enter the name of your commodity to retrieve relevant information about importing the product.

Select through the drill-down list

Use drill-down lists and navigate step-by-step through HS Code chapters to find details specific to your imported product.

Both methods will require knowledge of details such as the commodity being imported, its origin, its destination, and the intended use of the import commodity. When one of these search methods are used correctly, AIRS will provide applicable HS codes and import requirements.

How to use the drill-down feature

The drill-down feature is straightforward to use, requiring a few clicks and prompts:

1. Click on "Select by Drill-Down".
2. Choose an HS Code chapter from the drop-down menu and click "Go".
3. Follow the prompts and answer each question to refine your selection.
4. View your results, print them, or proceed to the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) screen for mandatory codes.

How to use the find by commodity feature

To search using the find by commodity feature, follow these quick steps:

1. Enter the name (in singular form) into the "Find Commodity" box and click "SEARCH".
2. Review search results or troubleshoot errors by checking spelling or using alternative names.
3. Refine results using filters like HS Description, HS Code, Alternate Description, Keywords, or Latin Names.
4. Select the appropriate result to view detailed import requirements.

Key features for EDI users

Importers using AIRS can leverage Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) enabled features with a few clicks:

• Click the "EDI" button to access mandatory data elements and required permits, certificates, or declarations.
• Consult the "Participants Information Document" for help with electronic transactions.

Additional AIRS components

Some additional components that importers may have to consider include the following details, codes, and documentation.

End use codes

These codes must be included in the commodity details section of your declaration to meet CBSA and CFIA requirements.

Miscellaneous codes

There are miscellaneous codes that may be required for compliance.

Registration details

AIRS registration data must accompany declarations.

Materialized LPCO

Licenses, permits, certificates, or other documents (LPCO) must be attached in an Integrated Import Declaration (IID).

De-materialized LPCO

LPCOs without attachments must still be recorded in the IID as part of the documentation process.

Special Documents

Certain goods may require additional clearances. It’s up to you to determine what’s needed and ensure the proper forms are submitted. You may need to register with CFIA AIRS under the appropriate CFIA AIRS registration types to ensure compliance with Canadian import requirements

The AIRS verification service (AVS)

The AIRS Verification Service (AVS) is a valuable tool for importers and brokers, allowing them to validate multiple AIRS commodities in a single request. AVS reduces the risk of rejected EDI transactions by quickly identifying errors or missing codes, saving time and avoiding delays.

Why use AIRS?

AIRS streamlines the import process for CFIA-regulated commodities, providing accurate, up-to-date information and integration with EDI systems. By reducing errors and ensuring compliance, AIRS is an indispensable tool for importers and brokers alike. Combining AIRS with the knowledge of experienced brokers can help to reduce the complexity of following through on vital compliance and regulatory processes.

Let an experienced professional handle the details and keep your shipments on time and on track. Contact one of our customs brokers to learn more.

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