Line Release System

Eligibility Criteria

The Line Release System has released procedures called service options:

• the Prearrival Review System (PARS) - which is available to importers and brokers who can send invoice and manifest information to the CBSA before a shipment arrives;
• the G7 Import One Step release on Full Documentation (RFD) which is available to importers;
• the Customs Self Assessment (CSA) program includes a new clearance process for low-risk shipments from the United States; and
• the Frequent Importer Release System (FIRST) - available importers of frequent, low-risk, low-revenue shipments. FIRST requires prior CBSA authorization.

Summary

The Line Release System processes release information before a shipment arrives. The system speeds the process of deciding to release a shipment or to refer it for examination.

Prearrival Review System (PARS)

PARS processes release information before a shipment arrives, speeding up the release or referral process when the carrier arrives. PARS can process goods that require permits or certificates.

Up to 30 days before the goods arrive in Canada, importers or their agents submit release documents to the Customs office that will clear the goods. The CBSA processes the documents and enters a recommendation.

When the shipment arrives, the Customs officer checks all the original invoices from the carrier or warehouse operator, and uses the bar-coded cargo control number on the invoices to get access to the recommendation and also to determine whether or not the shipment can be released.

G7 Import One Step release on full documentation (RFD)

This service option combines the release and accounting functions into one EDI transmission, while still allowing clients to remit payment of duties and taxes on a monthly basis.

The Customs Self Assessment program (CSA)

The CSA program will give approved importers the benefits of a streamlined accounting and payment process for all imported goods. The streamlined accounting and payment process ends the need for importers to maintain separate and costly customs processes, allowing them to use their own business systems to fully self assess and meet their customs obligations.

The CSA program also gives approved importers, approved carriers, and registered drivers the benefits of a streamlined clearance option for CSA eligible goods. The streamlined clearance process ends the need for transactional transmissions of data related to eligible goods. This allows for the clearance of goods based on the identification of the approved importer, approved carrier, and registered driver.

Frequent Importer Release System (FIRST)

If you are a frequent importer with a good record of complying with departmental regulations, you can apply for authorization to use FIRST. With FIRST privileges, when your shipment arrives at the border, a customs officer will review your FIRST documents and decide whether to release the goods or refer them for a more detailed inspection.

If you require personal assistance contact the Customs Client Services Office closest to you (see Related Reading: Customs Offices - Supplement or from Canada Border Service Agency's Web site for a list of addresses).

Manitoba Contact(s):
See National Contact.