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CARM Bond Requirements
That security is the CARM bond, also called an RPP bond. Without it, every shipment waits until you have paid in full.This page covers who needs a CARM/RPP bond, the exact amount the CBSA requires, the difference between a surety bond and a cash deposit, what it costs, and how to apply online.
Zipments issues CARM bonds digitally, often within 48 hours, so you can keep your imports moving.
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Our CARM bond tool lets you secure your bond online in just a few minutes.
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Why choose Zipments for your CARM bond?
01
Fast, online approval
Get your bond in minutes — no paperwork.
02
CBSA-compliant security
Your bond meets all CARM requirements with verified financial partners.
03
Simple, guided process
Clear steps and updates make the app effortless.
Benefits of a CARM Bond with Zipments
01
Financial flexibility
Secure imports without cash flow issues or upfront duties.
02
Full compliance confidence
Your bond meets CBSA and CARM policies.
03
Dedicated support
Get help from specialists who guide you through bond requirements.
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Who needs a CARM Bond to keep imports moving
If you are a commercial importer to Canada registered in the CBSA CARM client portal, you need a CARM bond to maintain RPP privileges.
This includes:
Canadian-based importers
Importers shipping to Canada
Customs brokers acting on behalf of importers
Importing under your business number requires a CARM bond for early release.
When should you apply for a CARM Bond?
You should apply for your CARM bond before your next shipment to ensure your account remains in good standing with CBSA.
Once the bond is filed and confirmed by CBSA, your RPP privileges remain active, preventing shipment delays or holds.
Typical processing time: 24–48 hours.
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Get your CARM Bond approved fast
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Got questions about our CARM Bonds?
What is a CARM Bond?
A CARM bond and an RPP bond are the same financial security. You post it in the CBSA CARM Client Portal to gain Release Prior to Payment (RPP) privileges, which let you release goods before duties and taxes are due. "CARM bond" refers to the system you post it in; "RPP bond" refers to the privilege it secures.
Two acronyms sit behind the term:
CARM is CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management, the Canada Border Services Agency system that manages importer accounts, duties, and security.
RPP is Release Prior to Payment, the privilege that releases your goods first and lets you pay duties and taxes later.
Under CARM, the importer of record is responsible for posting their own security. Importers can no longer rely on a customs broker's bond to cover their shipments.
If you have seen the terms importer security bond, customs bond Canada, CBSA RPP bond, or CARM e-bond, they all point to this same requirement. You estimate the duties and taxes behind that requirement with the Zipments duty and tax calculator.
Who needs a CARM/RPP bond?
Any business that imports commercial goods into Canada and wants to release them before paying needs to post RPP security in CARM. That security can be a surety bond or a cash deposit.
This applies to:
Resident importers of record bringing commercial goods into Canada.Non-resident importers of record.
Foreign businesses importing into Canada can post RPP security and obtain a CARM bond too.
Customs brokers and trade consultants arranging security on behalf of their importer clients.
Importers who do not post security lose RPP privileges. That means paying all duties and taxes upfront on every shipment before the CBSA releases it, which ties up cash and slows your goods at the border.
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 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:
- Log in to your CARM Client Portal.
- Navigate to the Financial Security page: You can usually find this under "Home" or the main menu, then "Financial Information," and finally, "Financial Security."
- 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.
How long does it take to get a CARM Bond?
Typically, you’ll receive your bond within 48 hours of completing the application and payment process.
What information do I need to apply?
You’ll need your business details (including your Business Number), contact info, and authorized signer information.
Can international importers apply?
Yes. Importers from the U.S. or other countries can apply for a Canadian CARM Bond through Zipments.
What happens if I don’t have a CARM Bond?
Without a valid bond, CBSA will require full payment of duties and taxes before releasing your shipments, which can delay your imports.
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