The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recently published Customs Notice 16-17 to provide updated information on the eManifest implementation timeline.

The eManifest is an initiative by CBSA aimed to enhance cross-border commercial processes and represents the third phase of the Advance Commercial Information (ACI) program. Once fully implemented, the eManifest will require carriers, freight forwarders, and importers in all modes of transportation to electronically transmit cargo, conveyance, house bill, and importer data to the CBSA prior to arrival.

The following timeline will apply to all Freight Forwarders:

• November 7, 2016 - January 10, 2017: a grace period will be offered to freight forwards during which penalties for non-compliance will not be issued by CBSA.
• January 11, 2017 - July 11, 2017: if deemed non-compliant with eManifest requirements zero-rated penalties (non-monetary) could be issued under the CBSA’s Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS).
• July 12, 2017: monetary AMPS penalties may be issued for deemed non-compliant freight forwarders.

The regulatory amendments can be accessed online here

The Customs Notice can be accessed here