Canadian Food Inspection Agency

FREQUENT IMPORTER RELEASE SYSTEM (FIRST)

Do you know about FIRST for CFIA Commodities?

FIRST (Frequent Importer Release System) is a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) release system for frequent importers of low risk commodities who have a high degree of compliance with CBSA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulations.

How does FIRST work?

The exporter, carrier, importer or broker prepares the FIRST release documents. This includes completing the commercial invoice area and providing other required documents. The package consists of the original bar-coded lead sheet containing invoice information (or the original bar-coded lead sheet with attached invoices, certificates, etc.) and one copy to be returned by the CBSA at the time of release to the carriers or drivers as a freight delivery receipt.

The exporter or carrier gives the FIRST lead sheet and invoice package to the driver to give to the CBSA on arrival at the border.

A customs inspector electronically scans the bar code to see if the FIRST authorization is valid. If it is, the inspector stamps the original lead sheet (to be sent to the importer/broker), provides the driver with a stamped copy as proof of release and the shipment can proceed to its Canadian destination.

If, for any reason, the goods cannot be released, the shipment must undergo regular CBSA/CFIA inspection.

Why should I use FIRST?

Waiting times at the point of importation are significantly reduced if goods are in compliance and the importer is pre-approved under the program.

How do I apply?

Kathy Telmosse/Michel LaBrosse
National Import Operations
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
3100, LaFramboise Blvd - Suite 206
Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec
J2S 4Z4
Telephone: (450) 771-6175 (ext. 103)
E-mail: telmossek@inspection.gc.ca
Fax: (450) 774-8522

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