Importing Goods into Canada

York University is the “importer of record” for shipments coming into Canada. As the “importer of record” York is responsible for guaranteeing that imported goods comply with laws and regulations. York is also responsible for paying the assessed import duties and other taxes on those goods to the Canadian government.

To ensure that York meets its obligations under the Customs Act, the University engages the services of a licensed customs broker. The broker acts as an intermediary between the transportation provider, the Canadian Border Services Agency, and the University.

Procurement Operations acts as the liaison between University community members and the customs broker, Thompson Ahern International.

Steps for Importing Goods

Orders from non-Canadian vendors require F.O.B. Destination (York University), freight prepaid. This places the responsibility for the shipment in the hands of the vendor until the shipment is delivered to York University. This responsibility includes freight charges and any damage to the goods while they are in transit.

Ordering Goods by Purchase Order

Community member completes and forwards a Purchasing Requisition to Strategic Procurement Services, including the following information:

1. Ship-to address including building name and room number
2. Clearly indicate if goods are Perishable/Hazardous

Note: The vendor must clearly indicate if goods are Perishable/Hazardous on all documents, package(s)/cartons. All supporting documentation (permits, licenses, etc.) must also be included.

Ordering Goods by PCard

When ordering with the PCard you must provide the vendor with the following information:

1. Your PCard cost center (e.g. cost centre 123456) – this will be used as a reference number
2. Your name and contact number
3. The complete shipping address at York, including the campus building name and room number
4. The University’s customer broker’s name,Thompson Ahern International
5. Clearly indicate if goods are “Perishable” - all Hazardous goods must be ordered via a Purchase Order

Note: A Purchase Order (PO) is not required when using a PCard.

Ordering Perishable or Urgent Shipments

Community members are encouraged to use FedEx air shipments for perishable or urgent shipments. These shipments are processed throughout the night to obtain “First Wave Delivery”. Send all all documentation to Thompson Ahern International via e-mail to yorku@taco.ca, including:

1. Carrier/courier information
2. Tracking details

Note: To ensure shipments are monitored and released on arrival, provide this information in advance whenever possible.

What fees apply?

Brokerage Fee: $10.80 CAD per entry

Fee payment is the responsibility of the community member purchasing the goods and should be charged to an appropriate cost centre.  In addition to the fee above, community members may be required to pay additional duties and taxes.

Who is not covered by this requirement?

York University, or its Customs Broker, is not responsible for any cross-border shipment on behalf of the following:

• York University students (with no reference or tie to a full-time staff/researcher at York University).
• Affiliated groups such as:
  • York University Development Corporation;
  • Tennis Canada;
  • CanLan IceSports/Ice Gardens;
  • Track and Field Centre; and
  • Archives of Ontario