Exporting Goods

The Customs and Logistics team will prepare Customs documents to meet the information requirements of most countries. Requests for paperwork are made using the Export Documentation Requisition form. 
Completed requisitions are emailed to customs@uwo.ca

The import requirements of most countries are very similar to those of Canada, although the Customs release times and processes can vary greatly. Documentation requirements will include a Customs Invoice declaration containing the same information as required by Canada Customs.

When preparing to export goods, you should consider the requirements of other government agencies in the destination country which may govern the importation of the goods. Although you as an exporter cannot apply for import permits into other countries, it is a worthwhile exercise to ask a consignee if they have any special import permit or license requirements. Not all goods require special permits, licenses or specialty declarations.  However, failure to ensure it is included can result in delays, seizure or forfeiture in the destination country. Not all goods can be automatically returned to the sender. 

It is important to understand that the information required by a courier or transportation company may appear to be a duplication of the documentation requirements for Customs. However the information required by transport companies is less detailed and required to report the general details of a shipment in advance of its arrival in the destination country. This is part of the required transportation security requirements of all transport companies. The paperwork prepared for Customs is more detailed and discloses all aspects of the reason for shipment.

Export Reporting and Export Licenses & Permits

As with importing goods into Canada, there are several laws and regulations which control the export of goods and services to other countries. Some of these controls are specific to the type of good or service, the country where the goods were manufactured or the country where the goods are being shipped. The Export Control List is quite extensive. 

In the process of preparing export paperwork, the Customs and Logistics team reviews the details of the transaction and the type of goods being exported to determine the requirement for an Export Permit or the requirement to report the export to the Canada Border Services Agency.

Export reporting is required in a number of situations. Most notably will be shipments valued at $2,000.00 or greater or where the goods are subject to export controls. Any shipment subject to an export permit or license requirement must be reported the Canada Border Services Agency prior to export.

The Customs and Logistics team can apply online for export permits from Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada and to file electronic export reports with the Canada Border Services Agency.

Failing to secure export permits prior to exporting or failing to report an export can result in significant penalties. Such penalties can be as high as $25,000 per instance.