The Single Window Initiative: Importing goods to Canada
Single Window Initiative is now Customs Single Window
The CBSA has renamed Single Window Initiative to Customs Single Window. All existing processes, services and reporting requirements remain unchanged. We are updating references across the CBSA website to reflect the new name.
The Single Window Initiative streamlines the sharing of commercial customs import data between government departments and agencies and the import community. Instead of filing paperwork with multiple offices, you can submit all your customs import information to the Government of Canada using one digital portal. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) works with 9 partner departments and agencies (representing 38 programs) to process your data efficiently in today’s globally competitive business environment.
How to declare your imports
To use Single Window, importers and customs brokers submit an electronic Integrated Import Declaration (IID) using Release Service Option 911. The information reaches all government departments simultaneously. The IID can be used for both non-regulated and regulated commodities and in most cases can be submitted 90 days in advance.
Handling regulated goods
Trade Chain Partners (TCPs) can use the Data Element Matching Criteria Tables to identify commodities (goods) regulated by a Participating Government Department or Agency (PGA) program.
Follow the guidelines in Chapter 23 – Single Window Initiative, Integrated Import Declaration (IID), Electronic Commerce Client Requirements Document (ECCRD). This ensures that all of the mandatory commodity importation data and image requirements are captured.
Disclaimers:
- Participation: This process is only for the 9 government departments and agencies that are currently participating in the SWI. It does not include commodities regulated by Other Government Departments (OGDs).
- Service Option 911: These rules apply only to IID, and is not applicable to other release service options.
Contact us
For technical support
- To obtain a copy of the IID Test/Certification Package
- To apply, test or certify for the IID
- To request a copy of the SWI IID ECCRD or PRD DIF
- For questions relating to the exchange of data with the CBSA
Technical Commercial Client Unit
Telephone: 613-946-0762
Email: tccu-ustcc@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
For policy support
Single Window Initiative, Program and Policy Management Division
Email: cbsa.sw_program-programme_du_gu.asfc@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Related links
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