CBSA Extends CLVS Operational Measures for Commercial Goods Release Under CARM
Published June 16, 2026
Key Points
- Customs Notice 26-13 replaces Customs Notice 25-32, extending measures to support expedited release of commercial goods in the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) Program.
- Importers must register in the CARM Client Portal, obtain a BN15, and enrol in Release Prior to Payment (RPP), including posting financial security, before seeking release.
- If an importer isn’t fully registered, a broker’s BN15 may be used on the F-type CAD while enrollment is completed.
- For 12 months from June 12, 2026, CBSA will focus on proactive engagement to support CARM registration.
- The notice doesn’t change the RPP Contingency Plan (CN 25-23) or the Broker BN15 exceptions in D17-1-5, paragraph 9.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) issued Customs Notice 26-13 on June 12, 2026, replacing Customs Notice 25-32 and extending existing operational measures under the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) Program. A 12-month modified compliance period begins on June 12, 2026, during which CBSA will focus on proactive engagement to support CARM registration. The notice continues to support expedited release of commercial goods while importers complete required steps under the CARM system. To comply, importers must register in the CARM Client Portal, obtain a business number, and enroll in the Release Prior to Payment program with financial security where applicable.
Registration
All commercial importers, including Non-Resident Importers, should be directed by their broker or authorized CLVS participant to register in the CCP, obtain a BN15, and enrol in RPP (including posting financial security) before seeking release.
Use of the Broker’s BN15
- Not fully registered: The broker’s BN15 may be used on the F-type CAD while the broker helps secure CARM and RPP enrollment.
- Didn’t qualify post-release: If goods are found ineligible under CLVS (e.g., regulated, or value for duty over CAD $3,300), the broker’s BN15 may be used on the V-type CAD.
12-Month Modified Compliance Period
As mentioned earlier, for 12 months from June 12, 2026, CBSA will apply a modified compliance approach, which focuses on proactive engagement with CLVS participants and importers to support CARM registration.
Meanwhile, the RPP Contingency Plan for time-sensitive or perishable goods, and goods required to support an individual’s health and well-being (CN 25-23), remains unchanged. Also, no changes have been made to the exceptions permitting broker BN15 use under D17-1-5 paragraph 9.
For questions about this process, contact Border Information Services at 1-800-461-9999 (option 2 – General Commercial Questions) or use the CBSA webform. For additional information, refer to Memorandum D17-1-5: Accounting for Commercial Goods.
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