CARM Client Form

The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system is now the official platform for managing import accounting, payments, and compliance in Canada. This form helps you prepare and complete your registration, so you can avoid delays and keep your shipments moving smoothly.

Your CARM Registration Roadmap in 3 Easy Steps:
Step 1: Register for a CARM Account
Step 2: Delegate authority to BorderBuddy to manage your customs declarations.
Step 3: Secure financial security (bond)
This allows you to avoid paying duties and taxes in person at the port of entry.
OPTIONS FOR FINANCIAL SECURITY:
  • Financial Security Bond: Covers 50% of the highest monthly duties and taxes over the past 12 months.
  • Cash Deposit: Covers 100% of your highest monthly duties and taxes.
Act Now to Avoid Clearance Delays!
  1. Note: BorderBuddy cannot assist with cash deposits.
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CARM Checklist

The first person to register the business becomes the Business Account Manager (BAM), who holds full authority over the account. The BAM can later assign additional users and roles through the employee management section of the portal.
Ensure your business has a BN9 with an active RM account before registering. Using the wrong scenario can result in delays or registration issues.
Refer to the user guide First-Time Set-Up – Register My Business Scenarios for details on the different situations businesses may encounter when registering on the CARM Client Portal. The portal process varies depending on whether the business is resident or non-resident. The guide outlines five general scenarios:
Scenario 1: Business has no BN9 and no CBSA program account
Scenario 2: Business has BN9 but no CBSA program account
Scenario 3: Business has BN9 and has an active RM
Scenario 4: Business has BN9, no RM, and has another CBSA program account
Scenario 5: Business has no BN9, no RM, and has another CBSA program account
Identifying the correct scenario before registering is essential to avoid complications and delays.
  1. This guide is intended ONLY for businesses that have a BN9 and an active RM (Importer/Exporter) account.
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CARM RPP Bond

Under CBSA’s new CARM rules, all importers are now required to post financial security (either a surety bond or cash deposit) to maintain Release Prior to Payment (RPP) privileges. This became mandatory on May 20, 2024.

BorderBuddy Bond Pricing
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Re-enroll in RPP and Posting Security in CARM (Non-Cash)

Got your signed security agreement? Great. Now it's time to re-enroll in the CARM RPP program and add your bond details.

RPP User Guide 

Step 1: Follow the above User Guide:
Step 2: When prompted, enter the following:
  • Select "Non-Cash" as the Post Security Deposit Type
  • Enter the following:

  • Surety Provider = Name of the Insurance Company
  • Bond Number = Provided by the Insurance Company (e.g., 903XXXXXX)
  • Bond Amount = shown in the bond certificate
  • Is it a Release Prior to Payment (RPP) bond? = Yes
  • Validity Period = From the date you receive the Bond Number, to one year later
Step 3: Once you receive the “Confirmation of Successful Enrolment in RPP” and the bond is in place, send an email to carm@borderbuddy.com so we can confirm your account is fully set up and ready for future clearances.

Previous Broker BN Usage

Have you previously used the provided Business Number (BN15) with another broker to clear shipments either in the months leading up to opening an account with BorderBuddy or before October 4, 2024?
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CARM Bond Application

Covers your imports for 12 months (auto-renews annually)
Ensures full compliance before the deadline
We’ll register the bond with CBSA for you
  1. Important: After you purchase a bond, wait for the insurance company to send you the security agreement. Sign it to receive your Bond Certificate, then return to this form and select “Help with RPP and Bond Details (Non-Cash)” to re-enroll and complete your bond setup.
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Choosing the right bond coverage depends on your business needs.

To see how much coverage you need, log into your CARM portal and go to Financial Information > Financial Security to view your Total Security Requirement.
Alternatively, go to Accounts and Profiles > Program Account Profile > Sub-Programs, then click Enrol in a sub-program under Release Prior to Payment (RPP). There you’ll find the System Calculated Security Requirement, which is the amount required for a bond or cash deposit.
Quick tip:
  • Total Security Requirement = actual duty, GST, and surtax over the past 12 months
  • Calculated Security Requirement = minimum needed to enroll in the RPP program
Options for RPP bond:
‍
Financial Security Bond – Covers 50% of your highest monthly accounts receivable within the last 12 months, with a minimum of $5,000 per import program (RM).
  • if your security requirement exceeds the bond premium cost, a financial security is recommended. Coverage starts at $5,000 and goes up to $24,999, with an annual premium of $350 plus tax. It protects your cash flow, offers flexibility, covers a full year, and scales with your import volume.
Cash Bond Deposit – Covers 100% of your highest monthly account receivable within the last 12 months.
  • if your security requirement stays below the bond cost, and you import only once or twice a year with duty, GST, and surtaxes remaining under that amount, a cash deposit is a practical option. If you stop importing, remember to dis-enroll from RPP and request a refund through CARM. The deposit serves as a guarantee and cannot be used to pay duties or taxes.
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CARM Transaction History from Another Broker

Since we don’t have any prior transaction history associated with your Importer (RM) account, we’re unable to access the information needed to assist with your CARM setup or security questions.
We recommend contacting your previous customs broker to request your transaction history, which may help you answer the required security questions.
For direct assistance, you can also reach out to the CBSA’s CARM Client Support Helpdesk (CCSH) by:
  • Completing the CBSA  Web Contact Form
  • Calling 1-800-461-9999 (Press 1 for English → 2 for CARM → 1 to speak with an agent)
If you happen to have copies of CBSA forms (e.g., B3 or CAD) from previous shipments, these may also help in answering the security questions.
If you’d like support from our team, feel free to book an appointment with our CARM Support Team.

Create your user profile

To log in to the CARM Client Portal, you must select either Sign In Partners or GCKey.

The CARM Client Portal can be accessed through the CBSA website. All individuals and businesses must complete the initial setup before using the main features of the CARM Client Portal. You can sign in using a Sign-In Partner or by creating a GCKey.
To help you get up to speed, access the CARM Client Portal Website  https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/en/auth/login
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Book an Appointment with our CARM Support Team

https://calendar.app.google/qTUHHPB5qiYyCdt16*(Optional)

Re-enroll in RPP and Posting Security in CARM (Cash bond)

RPP User Guide 

You can use the cash bond method by depositing 100% of the required security amount into your CARM account.

Follow the steps in the User Guide to re-enroll:

  • Bond Number: Any preferred personal reference number
  • CBSA Program: Importer
  • Program Account Number: Select your Importer Business or GST Number from the dropdown
  • Bond Amount: Enter your deposit amount
  • Validity Period: Enter the date just before your shipment’s crossing date or when you made the deposit

Create your user profile

What action would you like to take?
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Create your GCKey

A GCKey is a unique credential that protects your communications with online Government programs and services. If you do not already have an active GCKey, you will need to create one.

Click on "Continue to GC Key"
  1. This is NOT the same GC Key Access as the CRA for your CRA account.
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Login through sign-in partners

The Sign-In Partner option lets users log in via their financial institution’s web portal. These partners are banks and financial institutions working with SecureKey Technologies to let customers use their existing online credentials to access other secure sites.

On selecting a Sign-In Partner, you will be directed to the Partner’s sign-in page where you need to follow the steps provided for logging in.
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CARM Sign Up

Click on "Sign Up" button in the "Simple Secure Access" area to the right-hand side of the screen.

CARM Client Portal Website
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CARM terms and conditions of use

Accept the "Terms and Conditions of Use"
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Create your username

  • Keep in mind the recommendations, and the Username Checklist on the right.
  • This is YOUR username - DO NOT SHARE IT WITH ANYONE!
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Create your password

Please refer to the password checklist on the right-hand side.
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CARM recovery questions

Complete the Questions and Answers section by selecting:
a. Recovery Question: Enter the answer to the question you've selected.
b. Enter your memorable person: Enter a hint in case you forget who that person is.
c. Enter your memorable date (YYYY-MM-DD): Enter the memorable date hint in case you forget the date.
  1. The below sample should be personal & specific to ONLY YOU!
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CARM recovery email

Enter a recovery E-Mail for account recovery (if you're unable to log in or forget your information, etc.)

Assign a recovery email and click "Continue"
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GCKey sign up complete

Click ”Continue” again on the GCKey sign up complete page.

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CARM multi-factor authentication

Once you sign-in for the first time, you will be taken to the MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) registration page.

This is a requirement - you cannot get around this. You may have to go back to the CARM Client Portal log-in page to trigger this.
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CARM security code

Enter a valid E-Mail address as the security code will be E-Mailed to you each time you log in to the CARM CCP.

Checkmark the box to indicate you have read and agreed to the Privacy and Consent Statement
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CARM one-time password

  • Enter the OTP (One-Time Passcode) that is sent to the entered E-Mail address
  • Select "Continue to the CARM Client Portal"
  • Click the Accept Terms button to continue.
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Creating your personal profile in the CARM client portal

When you successfully log into the CARM Client Portal the first time, you will be asked to set up your Personal Profile, including: User Information, Contact Information, Settings and Preferences, and Preferred Language

  1. If you opt in to receiving notifications, you will receive them at this email address.
  1. *IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER: USE YOUR WORK EMAIL ADDRESS/TELEPHONE NUMBER AS THE CONTACT INFORMATION*
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Complete the security questions

These will be used for identity verification when calling the CBSA telephone support relating to activities on your account.

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First time setup

After profile creation, you will be met with the First-time setup page, from which two options will be available.

What would you like to do?
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Request access to an Employer

WARNING: Before sending a "Request Access to an Employer", ensure that someone from your company has already registered the business in CARM. If the business has not yet been registered, go back and select "Register my business" first. This will guide you through the process of registering the business and completing the CARM setup.

***Review the "WARNING" above carefully before proceeding with this step.***

1. Enter the company's 9-digit Business Number in the Business Number (BN9) box and click Search.
2. Once located, include a short reason why you need access and click "Request Access."
An Access Request message will popup to confirm that your request was successfully submitted.

Logout of the CARM system and inform your employer that this request is completed. After they accept your request, the next time you log into the CARM Client portal, you will be on your business homepage.

Register your business - for designated Business Account Manager

  1. If you have more than one BN9 (Business Number) account, you will need to create a separate user account for each BN9.  A single user account cannot be linked to more than one BN9.
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Register your business - for designated business account manager

After you enter your business number and program reference number, input the following information in the portal:

1. Legal entity name or operating name of the business; and
2. Full physical or mailing address of the legal entity

Answer the Requirements Validation questions and click on Next. 



(Both Resident and Non-Resident businesses may follow this registration by responding:  ‘Yes’ to having a BN9  ‘Yes’ to having an RM.)
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Answer the security questions (for new importers with no history of importing, this step will be skipped.)

Question#1: Duties and taxes payment.

The CCP will ask you to provide a transaction number and the total duties and taxes for a B3 (Canada Customs Coding form) that was previously  accepted by CBSA.
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Looking for assistance with managing your CARM Portal?

Consider using our CARM Support service to efficiently manage your CARM portal. You're welcome to book an appointment with our team for guided, step-by-step assistance.

What would you like to do?
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CARM for Importers

Enter your 15-digit CRA-issued Import/Export Business Number (BN15).

Answer the security questions

Question#2: Payment amount.

The CCP will ask you to select a date (MM/YYYY) and enter a payment amount made on the selected date
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Book an Appointment with our CARM Support Team

https://calendar.app.google/qTUHHPB5qiYyCdt16

Answer the security questions

Question#3: Statement of Account balance.

The CCP will ask you to select a date (MM/YYYY) and enter the Statement of Account balance for the selected date.
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Registration Successful

Congratulations! You have successfully registered with the CARM Client Portal.

Delegation of Authority in the CARM Client Portal

BorderBuddy will require access and delegation of authority in order to assist with your CARM portal management.

Grant Access

Once BorderBuddy submits the access request, your Business Account Manager (BAM) must take the following steps:

1. Log in to the CARM Client Portal
2. Go to “Manage pending third-party requests”
3. Review and approve the request
4. Select the appropriate access type and visibility attributes.
5. Click Approve to finalize the business relationship.
  1. We strongly recommend granting Business Management Relationship (BAM) access authority level. This ensures BorderBuddy can continue to fully support your customs compliance and portal management.

You’re all set

Here’s what you can do next:

Start an Import
Use our Duty & Tax Estimator or HS Lookup Tool.
Buy a CARM Bond
Access our CARM Bond page and Zipments Widget.
Need Support?
Send us your contact details for help.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
GET IN TOUCH

Still have questions?

Email us:

For any inquiries or further information, email us at carm@borderbuddy.com

Call us:

Speak directly with one of our experts by calling
+16044098163

Click here to read our terms and conditions

FAQ

Answers to all
your queries

What are my options for providing financial security?
  • Cash Security Deposit: This requires a deposit equal to 100% of your highest estimated monthly accounts payable to the CBSA, including GST. While this guarantees payment, it can significantly impact your cash flow.
  • Surety Bond: A more flexible option, requiring a bond for 50% of your highest monthly accounts payable. This allows you to maintain better cash flow while still meeting your CBSA obligations. The minimum bond amount is $5,000.
  • No Security: Without a cash deposit or bond, you'll need to pay duties and taxes at the time of import, potentially causing delays and impacting your ability to get goods to market quickly.
Why does a surety bond make sense for my business?
  • Frees up cash flow: You only need to secure 50% of your highest monthly obligation.
  • Faster customs clearance: Avoid payment delays and get your goods moving.
  • Flexibility: A surety bond adapts to your import volume, covering all your shipments.
  • Compliance: Ensures you meet CBSA requirements and avoid penalties.
How much financial security do I need for CARM?

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) requires financial security equal to 50% of your highest monthly duty and tax payable within the last 12 months. This is calculated by taking your highest monthly total for duties and taxes and dividing it by two.

How do I find out how much security I need?

The easiest way to determine your required financial security amount is through the CARM Client Portal:

  1. Log in to your CARM Client Portal.
  2. Navigate to the Financial Security page: You can usually find this under "Home" or the main menu, then "Financial Information," and finally, "Financial Security."
  1. View your Financial Security Dashboard: This dashboard provides a clear overview of your financial security status, including:
    • Total security required: The exact amount of financial security you need for your account.
    • Current security coverage: The amount of financial security you currently have in place.

By checking your dashboard, you can quickly and easily verify the specific amount of financial security required for your business.

What if I'm a new importer?

New importers have a minimum financial security requirement of $5,000. While you won't have prior import data to calculate 50% of your highest monthly duty and tax payable, you'll need to secure this minimum amount.

The CARM Client Portal will proactively notify you as your import activity grows and your required security approaches or exceeds your current coverage:

  • 75% Utilization: You'll receive a notification when your required security reaches 75% of your current coverage. This serves as an early warning to consider increasing your security.
  • 100% Utilization: If your required security exceeds 100% of your current coverage, you'll receive notifications on days 1, 6, and 10. These notifications will remind you that you must either pay off your outstanding balance or increase your security coverage to avoid account disruptions.

These notifications are designed to help you maintain adequate financial security and ensure smooth import operations. Regularly monitor your CARM Client Portal notifications to stay informed.

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