The Single Window Initiative (SWI) is a federal government process for gathering information on imports into Canada. We ran a blog on this back in January 2018.
As a refresher, we’ll remind importers that the Single Window Initiative means that instead of submitting different information to different government agencies, as in the past, any information on imported goods can be provided through a single submission to CBSA. In fact, as of April 1, 2019, submitting an Integrated Import Declaration (IID) through that "single window" becomes mandatory.
Although this simplifies the import process, in some cases it will mean more advance information is required than before.
If you are importing goods regulated by any of the Participating Government Agencies (PGAs) below, you will need to ensure all data elements required by all PGAs is provided in your import declaration (IID).
This CBSA site provides information on which data is required for each type of product regulated by each of the PGAs: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/sw-gu/ogd-amg-eng.html.
Conveniently, the IID can be sent to CBSA for processing up to 90 days prior to the arrival of the goods, so importers can receive recommended border decisions before shipments reach the border.
Contact Cole with any questions about how this works and how to meet the Single Window Initiative and import declaration requirements. Our customs professionals are available to help you understand these new electronic submission requirements and ensure you can take advantage of the efficiencies they offer.
Information provided by: Canadian Customs Dept. - Cole International