ATA Carnets are international customs documents that allow goods to be temporarily imported into a country. Since it is accepted both in Canada and the United States, goods can be cleared through CBSA and CBP using this shipment type. 

Carnets are commonly used to transport commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibition goods. In order to qualify for a Carnet, the goods must not be consumable items, such as agricultural products. They may be used for the importation of goods for a period of up to one year, depending on the validity period specified.

It is the temporary importer’s responsibility to obtain a Carnet. Importers should inform their carriers that this is the shipment type they are using, and provide them with a Carnet document, as the driver will need it at the border.