Import into Canada without setting up shop.

What is a Non-Resident Importer?

An NRI is a business located outside Canada that imports commercial goods into Canada in its own name. Instead of asking the Canadian buyer to act as importer, the foreign seller can structure the transaction so it manages the import process and provides a more complete landed-cost or delivered solution.

Selling into Canada does not always require a Canadian corporation, office, warehouse or permanent physical presence. Through NRI, goods can move directly to Canadian customers, retailers or fulfilment facilities.

Importer registration and account setup.

Depending on the import structure, the foreign business may need the right Canadian business and importer registration. We help get documentation in place before arrival, so you avoid delays, exams, storage, demurrage or detention.

Business Number registration requirements

Import-export program account setup

Customs broker authorization

CARM-related account and delegation

Importer identification and account coordination

Why companies use NRI.

An NRI structure can give international businesses a cleaner path into the Canadian market.

Control the customer experience.

Manage the import so Canadian buyers get a smoother delivery and less paperwork on their side.

See the landed cost.

Plan duties, taxes, freight, brokerage and delivery in advance so the total cost of importing is clear.

Direct access to Canada.

Sell to customers, distributors, retailers or e-commerce buyers without first establishing a traditional Canadian presence.

Who NRI is for.

Non-Resident Importer solutions can fit a range of international businesses.

Manufacturers selling directly into Canada

U.S. companies expanding into the Canadian market

International e-commerce businesses

Foreign brands supplying Canadian retailers

Wholesalers, distributors and fulfilment shippers

Businesses testing Canada before forming a Canadian entity

Part of our customs brokerage.