By LIME Logistics · · 7 min read
Documents you will need
Have these ready before pickup:
- Commercial invoice with HS codes, values, and country of origin
- Bill of lading
- PARS (into Canada) or PAPS (into the US) barcode from the carrier
- Customs broker contact information
- Certificates for regulated goods (food, chemicals, etc.)
eManifest requirements
Carriers must send electronic manifests ahead of time: ACE eManifest for US entry and ACI eManifest for Canadian entry. Your broker uses the PARS or PAPS number to link the customs entry to the truck.
Avoiding delays at the border
Most holds come from invoice values that don’t match, missing HS codes, or a broker who wasn’t notified. Send paperwork to your broker as soon as the load is booked, and confirm the entry is released before the truck reaches the crossing.
Based in Buffalo, LIME Logistics moves freight through the Peace Bridge, Lewiston-Queenston, and other Niagara crossings regularly, and coordinates with brokers on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a customs broker to ship to Canada?
In most commercial cases, yes. Brokers file the import entry, calculate duties and taxes, and work with customs to get the freight released.
- Cross-border
- Canada
- Customs