Import/Export Program Account: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to register for an import/export account to clear commercial goods through the border in Canada.
An Import/Export Program Account, which is often referred to as an RM account, is a specific registration required for any business that needs to move goods across the Canadian border for commercial purposes.
Who it's for
This account is designed specifically for businesses that are importing goods for the purpose of commercial resale. If your business model relies on bringing products into the country to sell them to customers, you will need this registration to remain compliant with federal requirements.
What you get
The primary benefit of this account is that it grants you the legal ability to clear your goods through the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Without this authorization, your shipments may be held or returned, preventing you from receiving the inventory necessary to run your business operations.
What it costs you
There is no cost to register for this program; it is a free service provided to businesses. Instead of a separate registration process that requires a new ID, this account is simply attached to your existing Business Number (BN), making it a streamlined addition to your current business profile.
The catch to know
A common mistake for new entrepreneurs is thinking they only need this account for large, expensive orders. In reality, you cannot clear commercial shipments through the border without this account, even if you are only importing small samples for testing purposes or managing a dropshipping operation. If the goods are for commercial use, the account is required.
How to apply
- Confirm that you already have an active Business Number (BN) for your business.
- Navigate to the official government portal to begin your registration.
- Follow the instructions to add the specific import/export program account to your existing business profile.