Register for or modify an import-export program account
If your business imports or exports commercial goods into or out of Canada, you need to have an import-export program (RM) account. Find out how to register to get an account or how to modify an existing account.
Register for a business number first
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) provides federal business numbers that allow it to administer taxation and other government programs. You also need a federal business number (BN) to participate in some other federal and provincial programs.
Importers and exporters need to register for their business number with the CRA before they can register for an import-export program (RM) account, which is administered by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
More information
Register for an import-export program (RM) account
On , you will be able to register for an import-export program (RM) account using the CARM Client Portal. Until then, if you need to register for an account you must:
- complete form BSF947: Request for a CBSA Import/Export Program Account using your 9-digit business number from the CRA
important Indicate all of your business names that may appear on customs release forms and documents, such as invoices (if the name on the customs release document is different from the name that the CBSA has on file, your request may be rejected) - email the completed and signed form as an attachment to carm_rm_support-soutien_rm_gcra@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Modify your import-export program (RM) account
If you need to update or make changes (for example, RM program account name change, RM program account address changes, RM program account re-activation):
- complete form BSF948: Request for Change(s) to Existing CBSA Import/Export Program Account.
- email the completed form as an attachment to carm_rm_support-soutien_rm_gcra@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
If you need support or have questions about your CBSA RM program account, email: carm_rm_support-soutien_rm_gcra@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Processing time
We are currently experiencing a large volume of requests. Please expect up to 72 hours for your request to be processed. If your request is urgent, please indicate this in your email request.
If you have submitted a registration form or a maintenance form for an RM account, you will receive a response once it has been processed. Please avoid duplicating or following up on your requests when possible.
Interim release options
To ensure the timely release of imported goods during this interim period, importers have 2 options while waiting for their RM account request to be processed:
- Option 1
Contact a customs broker: Customs brokers will be permitted to use their BN15 to obtain release of goods
- Consult this list of customs brokers
- Option 2
For importers not using the services of a customs broker, please:
- complete a B3-3 Canada Customs Coding Form
- Leave Field 1 – "Importer No." empty
- your local CBSA office will provide the information needed to complete this field when you present it to have your goods released
- Leave Field 1 – "Importer No." empty
- present the completed form to the CBSA customs office of release
Why your account is important
The CBSA uses your RM program account number for import and export purposes. To prevent delays in the release of your goods, ensure you have registered for an RM account well in advance of your import or export deadlines.
Other considerations for exporters
- Respect reporting requirements for commercial goods
- Register to access the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS) and submit your export documents electronically
Other considerations for importers
- complete a B3-3 Canada Customs Coding Form
- Date modified: