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Duty over 200% - How did that happen?

It can be a challenge to keep track of all the rules and costs associated with the import of goods into Canada. And sometimes, just when you thought you knew what the duty rate was, you get surprised with an unexpectedly high rate of over 200 percent! In this blog, we'll try to inject some clarity into the matter of.

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Should I maintain my own HS Classification database? 

We defer to experts for all kinds of things: maintaining our cars, fixing our computers, filing our taxes. It takes the guesswork out of these specialized jobs and gives us peace of mind that someone knowledgeable is taking care of us. But, whether you are a big or small business, you’re also looking for ways to save.

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What are the new SOLAS Requirements for Verified Gross Mass?

This summer, the International Maritime Organization adopted amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) aimed at enhancing maritime safety and reducing risks in ocean freight transport. Included in these amendments are new rules pertaining to the verification of the weight of packed shipping containers.

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Tariff Classification – Do your homework and get it right the first time.

“Quality is never an accident. It is always the result of an intelligent effort.” - John Ruskin, Art Critic and Writer Proper tariff classification is the foundation of import and export trade compliance. The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (also known as the Harmonized System, or HS) is the.

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The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) has been signed!

October 30, 2016, marked an auspicious day for the future of trade between Canada and the European Union (EU). That day, leaders on both sides signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

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My shipment isn’t that valuable. Should I bother to insure it?

Yes! A lot of people don’t purchase freight insurance because they think it’s unnecessary: their cargo is indestructible, it’s not attractive to thieves, or it’s not valuable enough to warrant the protection offered by insurance. But… Insuring your shipment is always advised. Even if your goods aren’t worth a great.

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Certificate of Origin: An important component of importing under Canada’s Free Trade Agreements

A certificate of origin is a legal document that certifies a shipment’s country of origin. In the context of free trade agreements (FTAs), certificates of origin are required in order to qualify for a reduced duty rate. The rules around certificates of origin and associated duty relief are specific to each FTA.

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Why is my international shipment delayed again?

Delays along the shipping chain can be exasperating and can make a business owner feel helpless. Although many factors can conspire against a smooth shipping experience, being in the know about what they are – and being prepared to respond to them – can put you back in control.

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Changes to Transport Canada’s Air Cargo Security Program

The Air Cargo Security Program has as its goal the establishment of a secure supply chain that keeps air cargo safe and free from tampering while being handled at different stages of its journey. Starting October 17, 2016, air cargo can be screened and made secure from as early as the time it is packed, up until it is.

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Why are freight rates so volatile – particularly those from China?

One of the biggest challenges facing importers is uncertainty around shipping rates. Plagued by slow global trade and shipping overcapacity, 2015 was one of the most volatile rate periods in recent history. Many factors contribute to freight price fluctuations. Knowing the reasons for this volatility can help you, the.

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