System requirements to adopt

To use EDI to transmit your data to the CBSA, you need to adopt one of the following three methods:

• Customs Internet Gateway
• Direct Connect
• Third party service provider

CBSA developed the Customs Internet Gateway (CIG) to provide clients with a method to transmit and receive data over the internet.

CBSA uses a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) service to secure and protect data transmitted from within Canada only.

Clients must:

• purchase specific software for encryption and decryption
• develop or purchase the protocol software to connect to the CIG

More information:

• Participant requirements document: Request the document from the Technical Commercial Client Unit (TCCU)
• Application forms: Canada Revenue Agency Business Partners - Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Services

The Direct Connect method provides clients with a dedicated direct connection to the CBSA. All new connections require an initial investment of $25,000 (plus or minus $5,000) to set up.

For technical and contracting details, contact the Technical Commercial Client Unit.

Clients who do not wish to transmit trade data directly to the CBSA may use a third party provider to do so on their behalf. Third party providers offer a range of EDI software packages that have been tested and registered by the CBSA. Some also offer a range of EDI services, such as value-added network services and other solutions.

More information: Software and service providers