F.A.Q

A Customs Broker is your agent between you and Customs. He acts on behalf of commercial importers and exporters in transactions with the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency. Customs Brokers are instrumental in processing goods through customs quickly and efficiently while upholding government laws and regulations.

Usually a properly completed invoice is required showing the shipper, purchaser, a detailed description of the goods, quantity, country of origin and currency of settlement. A Certificate of Origin will be required to claim duty relief. Certain products such as meat products, seafood and dairy require special documentation. Please contact us for details.

Couriers are dedicated to moving freight and are usually good at what they do. Their brokerage services have developed out of a need to move freight internationally. It is not their focus nor their core business. The services of an experienced Customs Broker, who's sole business is Customs Brokerage, can prevent costly mistakes and delays. Mistakes are not taken lightly by customs and it's good to have a professional on your side.

Large does not necessarily mean better. Large firms tend to become inflexible, regimented and less responsive to their client's needs. We at Global Maritime Management & Customs Ltd. take pride in providing personalized service individually tailored to our clients. Coupled with experience and the latest in computer technology there's nothing we can't handle.

In most instances a commercial invoice and a bill of lading are all you need for exporting to the U.S. You should determine who is responsible for getting the goods through U.S. Customs - you or the consignee. This will determine if you need to hire a U.S. Customs Broker.

The old adage, "You get what you pay for", is wise council. Often the brokerage fee is hidden in the freight charges. Remember, nothing is free. 

Customs Brokers usually base their fees according to the dollar value of the shipment. In some instances, the Customs Broker and client may agree on a flat rate per shipment or arrive at  minimum/maximum amounts.

ASYCUDA is a computerised customs management system which covers most foreign trade procedures. The system handles manifests and customs declarations, accounting procedures, transit and suspense procedures. ASYCUDA generates trade data that can be used for statistical economic analysis.