Implementing eManifest

Implementation Timeline

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recognizes that it will take time for the trade community to adjust to the new reporting requirements. Therefore, eManifest will be implemented over a number of years, by client type, using an 18-month implementation timeline.

0-12 months - Clients have 12 months to incorporate eManifest requirements into their business processes.

12-18 months - eManifest requirements are mandatory. Clients deemed to be non-compliant will be denied entry to Canada and issued zero-rated penalties.

18 months and beyond - The implementation timeline is complete. Clients deemed to be non-compliant will be denied entry to Canada and issued monetary penalties under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS).

Implementation by Client Type

Highway carriers

The 18-month implementation timeline for highway carriers to transmit cargo and conveyance data begins November 1, 2011.

• November 1, 2011, to November 1, 2012 – Highway carriers have 12 months to incorporate eManifest requirements into their business processes.
• November 1, 2012, to May 1, 2013 – eManifest requirements are mandatory. Highway carriers deemed to be non-compliant will be denied entry to Canada and issued zero-rated penalties.
• May 1, 2013 – The implementation timeline is complete.  Highway carriers deemed to be non-compliant will be denied entry to Canada and issued monetary penalties.

Rail carriers

The 18-month implementation timeline for rail carriers to transmit cargo and conveyance data will begin in late spring 2012.

Freight forwarders

In 2012, the 18-month implementation timeline will begin for freight forwarders in all modes of transportation to transmit house bill / supplementary cargo data.

Importers

In 2012, the 18-month implementation timeline will begin for importers in the marine mode to begin transmission of advance trade data.

Early Adopters

The CBSA encourages clients to adopt eManifest requirements early within each implementation timeline. Being an early adopter will allow businesses to benefit from more time to fine-tune business processes and correct problems before requirements become mandatory and regulations come into force.