CBSA Record Custody for Non-Resident Importers
CBSA requires every importer to maintain records in Canada, the U.S., or Mexico. If your business is based elsewhere, you need a Canadian record custodian. We are that custodian.
International companies selling into Canada
If your company is based outside Canada, the U.S., or Mexico and you ship goods into Canada, you are required to appoint a Canadian record custodian under CBSA regulations.
This applies whether you sell through Amazon FBA, Shopify, Walmart, 3PL warehouses, or direct distribution.
Your Compliance Obligation
Under CBSA Memorandum D17-1-21 and the Imported Goods Records Regulations (SOR/86-1011), every importer must:
- Keep all import records (invoices, CARM accounting documents, duty/tax receipts, permits) for 6 years following the importation of the goods
- Store those records in Canada, the U.S., or Mexico
- File Form BSF900 if records are stored anywhere other than your Canadian business location
Companies outside North America must designate a Canadian record custodian. Non-compliance can result in penalties, seizure of goods, or loss of import privileges.
Your authorized Canadian record custodian
We serve as your authorized Canadian record custodian and tax compliance partner, so your import operations run without interruption.
- CBSA BSF900 preparation: the signed custodian package, ready to upload in your CARM portal
- Secure record storage: encrypted, Canadian-hosted cloud storage with a dedicated upload portal
- GST/HST filing: monthly, quarterly, or annual returns available as an add-on
- Audit support: we respond to CBSA and CRA requests on your behalf
- CARM portal delegation: direct access and reporting handled on your behalf
- Global accessibility: clear, documented communication via email, built for international clients across all time zones
One plan, everything included
Simple annual pricing in USD. No setup fee, no hidden fees. Cancel with 30 days notice.
- CBSA BSF900 preparation
- Custodian engagement letter
- Encrypted Canadian cloud storage
- Secure upload portal
- Audit support
- CARM portal delegation
- Annual compliance review
Not just another customs broker
Most custodians are customs brokers who require you to use their brokerage exclusively and lock your documents behind complicated portals.
We are CPA-designated specialists with 15+ years in Canadian e-commerce. Record custody, GST/HST filing, and compliance in one integrated service, with no broker lock-in.
- Canadian data residency: records stored exclusively on servers in Canada
- End-to-end compliance: from import documentation through GST/HST filing
- Built for international clients: clear, documented email communication across all time zones and languages
- Government liaison: we communicate directly with CBSA and CRA on your behalf
- No broker lock-in: use any customs broker you choose, we handle the records independently
Four steps to compliance
- Onboarding: complete client intake documents and engagement paperwork
- Authorization: authorize us as your representative with CRA and CBSA
- Portal access: receive your secure, encrypted portal and begin uploading documents
- BSF900 upload: we prepare your BSF900 and engagement letter; you sign and upload them in your CARM portal with our screen-by-screen guide
What our clients say
"Rob and Marsha have been providing tax services for my companies and family for over 4 years. Highly recommend!"
"What used to take me 6+ hours to piece together, they handle in about an hour. Incredible team."
"They took care of everything - corporate tax, personal tax, GST filing. I just focus on selling now."
Common questions about CBSA record custody
Sell into Canada with confidence
We prepare your BSF900, store your records, and handle the government communication. You focus on growing your Canadian sales.