---
title: "Before you ship: Do you need an import permit?"
description: Most goods shipped to Canada don’t need an import permit. But some are regulated by federal agencies and will definitely need one. Read on to learn more.
image: https://blog.coleintl.com/hubfs/Images/Import%20Foundations-Freight%20Fundamentals/Freight%20Fundamentals/Freight%20Fundamentals%20-%20Air%202.jpg
---
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### Request Info
# Before you ship: Do you need an import permit?
Trade Update: August 25,2025
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Before you ship: Do you need an import permit?
4:36
**Some goods are regulated for health, safety, or environmental reasons, and failure to secure the right import permissions could delay or stop your shipment.**
Before shipping your goods to Canada, it’s important to determine whether your products require an import permit.
While most goods can enter Canada freely, certain items are subject to federal regulation and will require a permit.
Failing to check this before shipping could result in border delays, costly storage fees, or even the seizure of your goods.
Read on to learn more about import permits and how to determine if you need one.
## **What is an import permit?**
An import permit is an official document that grants permission to bring certain goods into Canada.
Permits are generally needed for goods that are **controlled**, **restricted**, or **regulated** under Canadian law.
They are issued by different Canadian government authorities depending on the nature of the product. For example:
- **Global Affairs Canada (GAC)** issues permits under the Export and Import Permits Act ([EIPA](http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/E-19/)) for goods on the Import Control List (ICL).
- The **Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)** issues permits and licences for food, plant, and animal imports.
- **Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)** issues permits for goods regulated for environmental reasons.
These agencies coordinate with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to ensure that controlled goods are not released into Canada without the appropriate authorizations.
## **When do you need an import permit?**
You may need an import permit in the following scenarios:
### **1. Your goods are listed on the Import Control List (ICL)**
The ICL identifies specific categories of goods that require permits before entering Canada. Examples include:
- Textiles and apparel
- Steel and aluminum
- Firearms and ammunition
- Certain chemicals and technologies
### **2. Your goods are subject to health, safety, or environmental regulations**
Goods subject to health, safety, or environmental controls may require an import permit. For example, you will need one for controlled substances (such as pharmaceuticals), plant products, and protected wildlife.
### **3. Your goods fall under quotas or trade restrictions**
Some items may be subject to limited quantities due to international agreements. Importing them may require a quota allocation and a permit.
## **Types of import permits**
There are two kinds of import permits, general and specific. The type you need depends on the nature of the goods being shipped, their classification on the ICL, and their entry conditions.
### **General Import Permits**
[General Import Permits](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d19/d19-10-2-eng.html#5) (GIPs) allow you to import certain eligible goods [listed on the ICL](http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/regulations/C.R.C.,_c._604/index.html) without having to apply for a permit each time.
A GIP authorizes importation under defined conditions, such as quantity or value limit.
For commercial shipments, the GIP number must appear on shipment release documents submitted to the CBSA.
### **Specific Import Permits**
[Specific Import Permits](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d19/d19-10-2-eng.html#6) are required for goods on the ICL that are not covered by a GIP.
Examples include certain agricultural products, textiles and clothing when preferential duty rates are claimed, and goods imported under temporary entry provisions.
These permits are issued by the GAC and must be obtained before importation.
## **How to apply for an import permit**
Your [customs broker](https://www.coleintl.com/) can prepare and submit the import permit application, track its status, and receive it once it’s ready.
Some permits are issued per shipment, while others are valid over time. Make sure you discuss the right type with your broker.
## **What happens if you ship without a permit?**
Shipping controlled goods without the required permit can result in:
- Border delays
- Monetary penalties
- Storage fees at a bonded warehouse
In more serious cases, CBSA has the authority to seize or forfeit shipments and apply penalties that can reach up to 70% of the value of the goods.
## **How Cole International can help**
At Cole International, we provide [freight forwarding solutions](https://www.coleintl.com/freight-forwarding/) to help businesses like yours navigate the entire shipping journey.
Here’s how we can help you:
- Verify permit requirements based on your shipment
- Apply for permits and coordinate with issuing agencies
- Ensure the correct documentation is prepared and filed to avoid delays at the border
***Our goal is to help you ship your goods smarter and faster.***
**If you need to determine whether you need an import permit for your shipment or want to issue one, please reach out to one of our** [**trade professionals**](https://www.coleintl.com/contact-us/)**.**
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### Latest Articles
- [How freight class and NMFC codes affect your LTL shipping costs](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/how-freight-class-and-nmfc-codes-affect-your-ltl-shipping-costs)
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- [A simple guide to common freight charges](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/a-simple-guide-to-common-freight-charges)
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