Common Reasons Shipments Are Held at Canadian Customs

How CBSA Determines Whether a Shipment Is Released or Held

After import data is transmitted electronically, CBSA systems conduct a risk assessment to determine whether goods may be released immediately or referred for further review. Holds are typically triggered by inconsistencies, missing information, or regulatory indicators within the declaration.

If concerns are identified, CBSA may request clarification, require additional documentation, or refer the shipment for physical examination before authorizing release.

Understanding the most common reasons shipments are held at Canadian customs helps importers reduce delays, avoid reassessments, and maintain consistent cross-border operations. For the full release sequence, see How CBSA Release Processing Works.

Most Common Reasons Shipments Are Held at Canadian Customs

Incomplete or inaccurate commercial invoices

Commercial invoices must clearly describe goods, include accurate values, identify the importer of record, and provide country of origin details. Vague descriptions such as “parts” or “samples” frequently trigger review.

Incomplete documentation slows release because CBSA cannot validate tariff classification, valuation, or regulatory requirements without sufficient detail.

Incorrect tariff classification

Tariff classification errors are one of the most common causes of customs holds. If the declared Harmonized System (HS) code does not align with the product description, CBSA may refer the shipment for clarification or inspection.

Misclassification can affect duty rates, regulatory controls, and admissibility requirements. Inconsistent classification patterns may also increase audit risk.

Undervalued or questionable declared value

Declared values must reflect the transaction value in accordance with Canadian customs valuation rules. If CBSA determines that goods appear undervalued compared to historical patterns or industry benchmarks, additional documentation may be requested.

Missing permits or regulatory approvals

Certain goods require permits, certificates, or additional regulatory clearance from partner government agencies. If required documentation is missing at the time of submission, the shipment may be held.

Examples may include food products, medical devices, agricultural goods, or controlled commercial items. See Import Permits and Regulated Goods.

Importer account or CARM issues

Under Canada’s CARM framework, importers must maintain proper account registration and financial security. If an importer’s account is inactive, improperly structured, or lacks required security coverage, release delays may occur.

Businesses still setting up can start with Do You Need a Business Number to Import Into Canada?

First-time importer or new product activity

CBSA may review shipments more closely when an importer is new, importing a new product category, or changing declared patterns. Risk systems evaluate historical trends, and deviations can trigger inspection or documentation review.

Data inconsistencies between carrier and customs declarations

Information submitted by the carrier must align with customs declaration data. Discrepancies in quantities, weights, or shipment details can cause system flags that delay release.

Physical Examinations and Documentation Reviews

Not all holds result in physical inspections. In many cases, CBSA simply requests clarification or additional documentation. However, shipments may be referred for physical examination if officers need to verify product description, classification, origin, or admissibility.

Physical examinations may result in storage costs, terminal fees, or carrier delays, depending on how long the shipment remains under review.

How to Reduce the Risk of Customs Holds

While some reviews are unavoidable, most customs holds can be minimized through structured compliance practices.

• Provide detailed commercial invoices
• Confirm accurate tariff classification
• Validate declared values before submission
• Ensure required permits are secured in advance
• Maintain active CARM registration and security
• Align carrier and customs data

Holds that point to a recurring reporting problem can also carry penalty risk. See How to Avoid Customs Penalties in Canada.

The Role of a Licensed Customs Broker in Preventing Delays

Licensed customs brokers review shipment documentation before electronic submission to CBSA, validate tariff classifications, confirm valuation accuracy, and identify potential regulatory requirements.

Structured pre-submission review significantly reduces release referrals, examination frequency, and post-release correction exposure.