CARM Information
Everything you need to know about Canada's Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system
CARM – CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is modernizing the way duties and taxes are assessed and collected on commercial imports through its CARM (CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management) platform. Starting October 2024, importers are required to pay duties and taxes directly to CBSA.
At Viacan Customs Brokers, we guide you through the entire CARM process to ensure your imports remain compliant and your operations run smoothly.
Set Up Your CARM Client Portal Account
To stay up to date, your business needs to register on the CARM Client Portal and provide proper access to staff or service providers like Viacan. This allows us to continue managing your imports and supporting your CARM requirements.
Steps to Get Started:
Create Your User Account
Set up your login credentials in the CARM Client Portal. Follow CBSA's onboarding guides or video tutorials for guidance.
Link Your Account to Your RM Account
Connect your profile to your business' Importer (RM) account. If your business has imported in the last six years, you may need to answer verification questions. For assistance, contact info@viacanbrokers.com.
Delegate Access to Viacan Customs Brokers
Give Viacan access to manage your account by selecting "All programs" and Business Management. Enable all three transaction visibility options so we can validate and reconcile your CBSA statements accurately.
Release Prior to Payment (RPP) Program & Financial Security
If you want your goods released before paying duties and taxes, you must enroll in the RPP program and provide a form of financial security.
Options for Financial Security:
Surety Bond
50% of your highest monthly duties and taxes, minimum $5,000 per RM account. Viacan can help you arrange this option.
Cash Bond
100% of your highest monthly duties and taxes. Refundable when your importer account is closed. This deposit does not pay your duties directly.
CBSA reviews financial security requirements annually. Accounts with updated requirements received a notice in the CARM portal. To maintain RPP benefits, the new security must be in place by January 15, 2026.
Need Assistance with CARM?
CBSA's Client Support Help Desk is available:
Online: CBSA contact form
Phone: 1-800-461-9999 (Option 2 – CARM)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET
Account Login Issues?
If you haven't logged into CARM for 180+ days, your login may be disabled. GCKey users may see a "USER ACCOUNT DISABLED" message. Reset support is available:
- • Canada/USA: 1-855-438-1102
- • Outside Canada/USA: 1-800-2318-6290
- • TTY/TDD: 1-855-438-1103
Let Viacan Guide You Through CARM
Our team is here to help you navigate the CARM process and keep your imports running smoothly.