Customs Clearance

As Laurentian University’s designated Customs Broker, Thompson Ahern coordinates and authorizes customs clearance for all goods entering Canada on behalf of the University. Imported goods are subject to federal and provincial taxes, duties, and excise charges, and must be properly cleared through the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Shipment Information Requirements

The shipment documentation serves as a legal declaration to CBSA about the imported products. To avoid delays, ensure that the following requirements are met before the shipment leaves the supplier:

1. Shipping Documentation

• Include the full name of the requesting department (avoid acronyms or abbreviations).

• Ensure all documents are complete, legible, and consistent across supplier paperwork.

2. Commercial Invoice Requirements

The supplier must prepare a Commercial Invoice that clearly outlines:

• Importer of Record:
  Laurentian University (to be listed whenever the University is responsible for importing the goods into Canada)

• Detailed Product Description:
  CBSA does not accept vague or generic descriptions. Descriptions must clearly identify the nature, purpose, and composition of the goods.

• Actual Value of the Goods:
  Must reflect the true value of the items excluding shipping or freight charges.

• Parties to the Transaction:
  All parties (supplier, consignee, purchaser if applicable) must be clearly identified.

• Purchase Order Reference:
  If a PO exists, ensure the PO number is included on the invoice.

• Terms of Sale / Conditions:

• Country of Origin:
  The manufacturing country must be listed for each product in the shipment.

Importer of Record

The Importer of Record is the entity responsible for:

• Ensuring imported goods comply with all Canadian laws and regulations.

• Filing all documentation required for customs clearance.

• Paying duties, taxes, and any applicable import charges.

• Retaining all customs-related documents .

When Laurentian University is responsible for the shipment, the Importer of Record must be listed as:

Laurentian University of Sudbury
935 Ramsey Lake Road
Sudbury, ON
Canada

Permits, Licenses, and Certificates

Certain goods require additional regulatory documentation from other government agencies. Departments importing specialized equipment, materials, or biological items must consult Thompson Ahern prior to shipment to confirm whether permits are required.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Health Certificates

• Radiation Licenses (e.g., X-ray or radioactive materials)

• Phytosanitary Certificates

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) permits

• Ministry of Natural Resources permits

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada permits

Failure to obtain required certifications may result in border delays, seizure of goods, or additional fees charged to the department.

6299 Airport Road, Suite 506
Mississauga, Ontario L4V 1N3

Phone: 905.677.3471
Fax: 905.677.3464
Email:
pars@taco.ca (Inbound Canadian shipments)
paps@tahocologistics.com (Inbound US shipments)
info@taco.ca (General Inquiries)

Please contact Purchasing@laurentian.ca for more detailed information