Import/Export account

If you import goods into Canada or export goods to other countries, you should register.

We use your import/export account number to process customs documents.

To avoid delays in releasing your goods at the border, open your account before you import or export goods.

When completing the Form RC1, Request for a Business Number (BN), include all your business names that may appear on customs release forms and documents, such as invoices. If the name on the customs release document is different from the name we have on file, your goods may be held up at the border.

When two or more corporations merge and create a new corporation, a new Business Number will be issued to the new corporation. Any import/export accounts you had for the old corporations, will be closed immediately. Certain privileges such as the Frequent Import Release System (FIRST) and the Pre-Arrival Release System (PARS) linked to your previous number may need to be reviewed. For more information visit the Canada Border Services Agency web site.

Forms and publications

• RC2 The Business Number and Your Canada Customs and Revenue Agency Accounts
• RC4229 Importing Commercial Goods Into Canada
• RC1 Request for a Business Number (BN)

Related topics

• Business Registration On-line
• Related provincial and territorial government sites
• Canada Business
• Canada's Business and Consumer Site