G7 Initiative

Import One Step Release on Full Documentation

About the G7 RFD Process

Release on full documentation (RFD) is a service option that allows importers or agents to obtain the release of a shipment by submitting release and accounting information in a single EDI transmission (electronic data interchange), while deferring the payment of duties and taxes to a later date (usually on a monthly basis).

Importers or agents can transmit the information either before, or when, a shipment arrives. If they have an established relationship with a known supplier, they can submit the release and accounting information to CBSA officials before the release of the goods.

Although the RFD process is a G7 Initiative, it is not restricted to shipments from G7 countries.

Benefits of G7 RFD

If you participate in the RFD process, you may benefit in the following ways:

• Single EDI Transmission: You will be able to submit release and accounting information in a single EDI transmission without being required to submit key data elements twice (once to obtain the release of goods, and a second time as part of the accounting process).
• International standard: The RFD process will be available in both a G7 EDIFACT message format and a CADEX message format.
  • If you use the G7 EDIFACT message format, you will benefit by using an international standard.
• Single step process: If you import repetitive shipments from an established supplier and have access to the accounting information before the release of the goods, you can complete the release and accounting process in one seamless step instead of the current two-step Release on Minimum Documentation process.
• Customs Self Assessment program: CSA participants can use the CSA accounting stream to complete accounting and payment for transactions reported under the RFD process.

You can use the RFD process for the following types of shipments:

• trans-border shipments (highway, air, or rail)
• overseas shipments (air or marine);
• high-value and low-value;
• Special Import Measures Act goods;
• special authority goods;
• Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ);
• Canadian goods returned; and
• those requiring a International Trade Canada import permit.

Import restrictions

You may not use the RFD process for the following types of shipments:

• those that require processing by other government departments (with the exception of a International Trade Canada import permit);
• casual importation of personal goods;
• used goods;
• temporary imports;
• goods shipped using the postal system;
• those entering a bonded warehouse;
• goods requiring payment of the harmonized sales tax; and
• goods requiring payment of the provincial sales tax.

Application Process

1. To register for the RFD process, complete Form E686 (PDF, 28  KB) [help with PDF files], Application for G7 Import One Step on Full Documentation (RFD) - Declaration of Intention to Participate.
   
   
2. Send the completed form to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) by:

   Fax:
   (613) 952-9979

   Mail:
   Canada Border Services Agency
   Major Project Design and Development Directorate
   Systems Operations Division
   15th floor, Sir Richard Scott Building
   191 Laurier Avenue West
   Ottawa ON K1A 0L8
   Attention: Paul Miller, Manager

When we receive this declaration, we will review it to ensure that the necessary security bond has been posted so that you are eligible for deferred payment privileges. We will also confirm whether you are an existing EDI client in ACROSS.

Participant Requirements

You will be required to sign an EDI Memorandum of Understanding for RFD whereby you agree to abide by and meet the established CBSA standards and conditions as an EDI participant.

You must also undergo testing, using a G7 One Step Acceptance Test Package provided by the CBSA. This package has been designed to eliminate future complications in transmitting or receiving EDI messages. Once the testing has been successfully completed, you will be approved to begin transmitting RFD EDI messages.

More information

If you have general importing questions, contact the Border Information Service (BIS).

To learn more about Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or to obtain a participant requirement document, contact CBSA's Electronic Commerce Unit at:

• 1-888-957-7224 (toll-free within North America)
• 613-946-0762 (calls outside of North America)