Frequent Import Release System

The Frequent Importer Release System (FIRST) is a Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) service for frequent importers of low risk, low-revenue commodities, who have a high level of compliance with CBSA regulations.

FIRST is a valuable asset for importers who frequently import products into Canada.  It eliminates the manual clearing of goods by a broker as all pertinent information is electronically forwarded to Canada Customs.  Through this process, clearance is secured long before the truck arrives at the border crossing, thereby expediting travel time and increasing traffic flow.

Upon arrival to a Canadian Customs Booth, the carrier will presents the import document with the bar-coded authorization and transaction number, a description of the goods, and related invoices.  The Customs officer then scans and stamps the information package and a copy of the FIRST document is returned to the driver as proof of release. Goods move through quickly and efficiently with an absolute minimum of down time.

Important Customs Information

Automated Commercial Environment (ACE)

Customs Self Assessment (CSA)

Frequent Import Release System (FIRST)

Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS)

Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS)