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CARM Bond Tool
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Why you need a CARM bond
Without a CARM Bond, importers must pay duties and taxes upfront before shipments are released, creating cash flow challenges and delays.
With Zipments, obtaining your bond is seamless, fast, and fully digital.
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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 is a financial guarantee required by the Canada border services agency (CBSA) for importers who want to release goods before paying duties and taxes.
Why do I need a CARM Bond?
It allows you to maintain release prior to payment (RPP) privileges, helping you defer payment and avoid border delays.
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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