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Export goods from Canada

Last updated on November 21, 2025

Exporting from Canada can help your business grow by connecting you with customers around the world. Learn about how to become an exporter.

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Step 1. Create an export plan

An export plan helps you focus on international markets and is in addition to your business plan. It identifies key elements to consider, including your:

  • Target market(s)
  • Export goals
  • Necessary resources
  • Anticipated results and progress

This is important for the planning and success of your business.

Before you start

If you are not already a business owner, it may help to review the following information:

You will also need to register your business.

Step 2. Regulations and permits

Find out if your goods are on the Government of Canada export controls list.

Step 3. Foreign market research and analysis

Before investing in the export of goods, make sure there is a demand for your product in the targeted country and that you identify the following:

  • Competitors in the target market
  • The needs of the target market:
    • Why do they need your product?
    • What problem does your product solve?
    • What is your product’s unique competitive advantage in the target market?
  • Which countries have Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with Canada

Consider if you need to import inputs to manufacture your products, and which markets provide the best competitive advantage.

Resources to support your research:

Find potential clients and suppliers

Ensure you have potential reliable suppliers and clients interested in buying your items and develop relationships with them.

Resources to find potential clients:

Product and labelling requirements

Different government departments will have different labeling standards depending on the industry of your product. Learn about standards by:

  • Contacting the relevant government of the foreign country
  • Asking your buyer for information about the labeling requirements

Step 4. Tariff classification

Check the Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the country you're shipping to

Before shipping goods, check the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for the country where they will be imported. Every country has its own version of the HTS, and while the systems are similar, there can be important differences.

Using the wrong HTS code may lead to:

  • Paying the wrong duty or tariff rate
  • Your goods being delayed or refused at the border

How to use HTS Codes

All World Trade Organization (WTO) countries use the same first 6 digits of the HTS code. If you know these 6 digits, you can look them up in the destination country’s HTS list to find the full 10-digit code used there.

This helps ensure your goods are classified correctly and meet local import rules.

Helpful WTO resources:

For assistance with HTS Codes:

Step 5. Complete a certificate of origin

You must correctly identify the country of origin of your goods. This refers to where the goods were:

  • Manufactured
  • Grown
  • Produced

Country of origin is not necessarily the country from which the goods are shipped. Simple processes like painting, small changes or repackaging do not change the country of origin.

Determine the correct origin

  • Check the rules for the destination country, as each country has its own guidelines
  • Country of origin rules for FTAs may be different from standard origin rules

How to proceed

  • Collect all documents related to how and where the goods were made, grown or produced
  • Identify the standard country of origin first
  • Then check if any FTAs (like the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)) apply to your goods:
    • Each FTA has its own rules of origin
    • Rules vary depending on the type of product, so be sure to use the correct product

Why this matters

Preparing a correct certificate of origin can help avoid unnecessary duties. If the goods qualify under a trade agreement, they may benefit from lower or zero tariffs.

Helpful resource:

Remember: The country of origin, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, and any relevant FTAs affect how much duty or tariff is charged when your goods are exported.

Step 6. Set up your federal import-export program account

New businesses

If your business is new to exporting, you will use your Canada Revenue Agency business number to register for:

Pacific Customs Brokers developed a CARM setup guide to help new Canadian importers.

Existing businesses

Existing businesses can register for or modify an import-export program account.

Step 7. Accounting package documents

Customs requires certain documentation to be submitted, for example:

  • Export Declaration
  • Certificate of origin (if applicable)
  • Commercial invoice
  • All required permits, certificates or licenses for the destination

The Government of Canada’s Exporters’ Guide to Reporting help you understand what you need and how to file it.

Get help

The Export Navigator program guides B.C. entrepreneurs through the export planning process by pairing them with an Export Advisor. They provide free one-on-one support to help your exporting journey.

Go to Canadian Boarder Services Agency (CBSA) information services or call 1-800-461-9999 if you have further questions or need guidance on the import process.

Additional export resources

The Province is providing this resource solely for purposes of general guidance with respect to the subject matter involved.  As such, this resource is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. 

You should consult with a qualified professional to validate the accuracy and relevancy to your business before making any decisions based on this resource.