Information Notice

Offload Policy for Highway Examinations

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has introduced a new offload policy for commercial highway shipments. Accordingly, the CBSA has contracted an offload service provider who will offload and reload cargo that has been targeted for an examination.

Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions concerning this new policy:

Why is my shipment being examined?

CBSA officers routinely target shipments for further examination. This is to ensure that shipments entering Canada are safe and secure and does not necessarily mean that criminal activity is involved.

Why is a third-party handling my shipments?

The CBSA is committed to processing commercial shipments as quickly and as efficiently as possible. By having a third-party offload and reload shipments, the CBSA can ensure examinations are conducted thoroughly and drivers and carriers can have their shipments offloaded and reloaded in a routine fashion using consistent processes.

Who will be responsible for any possible damage to goods?

Any complaints during offloading and reloading should be directed to the offload service provider. Any complaints during an examination should be directed to the CBSA officer.

What legal authority does the CBSA have to examine my shipment?

Section 99 of the Customs Act authorizes the CBSA to conduct examinations of commercial shipments.

Why is there a fee for offloading shipments?

As part of the Offload Policy, the carrier is responsible for the fees incurred for offloading and reloading goods. Questions concerning fees should be directed to the offload service provider.

Where can I get more information?

In Canada: 1-800-461-9999
Outside Canada: (204) 983-3500 or (506) 636-5064
www.cbsa.gc.ca