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.
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.
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.
Always verify AIRS CFIA results against official Canadian acts and regulations, along with updates that may potentially have an impact on your imports.
AIRS information is updated regularly by the CBSA, so it's worthwhile to regularly keep an eye out for significant updates.
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.
You can search AIRS for import requirements in two different ways.
Enter the name of your commodity to retrieve relevant information about importing the product.
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.
The drill-down feature is straightforward to use, requiring a few clicks and prompts:
To search using the find by commodity feature, follow these quick steps:
Importers using AIRS can leverage Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) enabled features with a few clicks:
Some additional components that importers may have to consider include the following details, codes, and documentation.
These codes must be included in the commodity details section of your declaration to meet CBSA and CFIA requirements.
There are miscellaneous codes that may be required for compliance.
AIRS registration data must accompany declarations.
Licenses, permits, certificates, or other documents (LPCO) must be attached in an Integrated Import Declaration (IID).
LPCOs without attachments must still be recorded in the IID as part of the documentation process.
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) 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.
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.