What’s driving the change
CBSA’s heightened activity reflects an uptick in risk indicators such as misclassification, origin concerns, undeclared goods, and potential contraband. These trends have led officers to apply more rigorous screening and expand the use of targeted examinations.
What this means for importers
Delays of two to three weeks are common when a container is selected for examination, which can create challenges for importers managing lean inventory or time-sensitive production schedules. These timelines largely reflect the scope of the review itself.
When CBSA examines a container, the process applies to the entire load, not just the shipment that triggered the concern. In a consolidated container, your goods move through the same review steps as every other shipment inside it. If another importer’s cargo raises a question around classification, documentation, or potential risk, CBSA may extend the examination to all contents. As a result, compliant shipments can still be held until officers complete their broader assessment.
While the review may not relate to your own documentation, the added time before release can still affect downstream planning.
How importers should respond
- Communicate early: If notified of a hold, connect with your trade advisor promptly and, if provided, your CBSA contact to maintain visibility on next steps.
- Use available expertise: Our Customs & International Trade Services (CITS) team can support communications, interpret CBSA requests, and guide you through the process.
- Build resilience: Consider steps such as diversifying carriers, modestly increasing buffer inventory, or assessing alternate ports to reduce reliance on a single route.
Why this matters now
Global trade conditions remain fluid, and customs authorities are continuing to refine their inspection practices. For Canadian importers, this underscores the importance of accurate classification, reliable origin documentation, and consistent administrative controls.
Our recommendation
Focus on what you can control, including maintaining accurate documentation, USMCA/CUSMA qualifications (if applicable), and consistent customs processes. If a shipment is held, we’re available to walk through the CBSA steps with you, clarify what to expect, expedite where possible, and help you manage the review in a straightforward, practical way.
For more resources on how your business can navigate the changing tariff and trade environment, visit our tariff readiness hub.
The information in this publication is current as of Nov. 27, 2025.
This publication has been carefully prepared, but it has been written in general terms and should be seen as broad guidance only. The publication cannot be relied upon to cover specific situations and you should not act, or refrain from acting, upon the information contained therein without obtaining specific professional advice. Please contact BDO Canada LLP to discuss these matters in the context of your particular circumstances. BDO Canada LLP, its partners, employees and agents do not accept or assume any liability or duty of care for any loss arising from any action taken or not taken by anyone in reliance on the information in this publication or for any decision based on it.