Impact of CARM Release 2 on Customs Brokers

In October 2023, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will launch CARM Release 2, a major upgrade to the current Customs Automated Reference System (CARM). The new system is designed to enhance the overall efficiency of the CBSA’s operations by improving how it interacts with customs brokers, importers and other trade partners.

As intermediaries between importers and CBSA, customs brokers play a vital role in facilitating the clearance of goods and ensuring compliance with Canadian import regulations. The introduction of CARM Release 2 will have a significant impact on the way customs brokers operate, both in terms of their interactions with the CBSA and the services they offer to their clients.

One of the key features of CARM Release 2 is the introduction of a new portal for customs brokers. The portal will provide brokers with a more user-friendly interface, making it easier for them to manage their accounts and submit information to the CBSA. It will also allow brokers to view and track the status of their transactions in real-time, providing greater transparency and reducing the need for manual follow-up.

Another significant change that CARM Release 2 will bring is the introduction of a new payment system. Currently, customs brokers pay for their transactions using the CBSA’s eManifest portal, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome. The new payment system will streamline the payment process, allowing customs brokers to pay for their transactions directly through the CARM portal. This will reduce the time and effort required to complete transactions, making it easier for brokers to focus on other aspects of their business.

CARM Release 2 will also introduce new reporting features that will make it easier for customs brokers to monitor and analyze their transactions. The system will provide brokers with detailed reports on the status of their transactions, including any issues or delays that may arise. This will enable brokers to identify areas for improvement and take corrective action where necessary, improving the overall efficiency of their operations.

Overall, the impact of CARM Release 2 on customs brokers will be significant. The new system will provide brokers with a more streamlined and efficient way to interact with the CBSA, reducing the administrative burden associated with managing transactions. It will also provide brokers with greater visibility into their transactions, allowing them to identify and address issues more quickly. Ultimately, CARM Release 2 will improve the overall efficiency of customs brokerage operations, benefiting both brokers and their clients.

To help you navigate the upcoming changes, CrimsonLogic will be developing an Ultimate Guide to CARM. We encourage you to bookmark this page and to check back often for updated information regarding CARM.