Before importing 

If you are thinking about importing for the first time, or if you're looking for suppliers, learn about resources and organizations that could help you take those first steps.

• A step-by-step guide to importing

  Learn the basics of the commercial importing process.

• International trade training programs

  Explore some learning opportunities to help you understand various aspects of importing and exporting.

• Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Centre

  Get assistance in complying with border and customs regulations.

• Border Information Service

  Get telephone assistance in complying with border and customs regulations.

Registering for an import/export account

Before you start importing, you must register your business for an import/export account.

• Business Number (BN)

  Your Business Number is your single account number for dealing with the federal government regarding taxes, payroll, import/export and other activities.

Finding suppliers abroad

If you can't find suitable domestic vendors for the products you need, you may have to consider importing your products. Finding and selecting foreign suppliers can be time consuming, particularly if you are new to the import business. These resources could help you avoid certain risks and locate international suppliers.

• Manage foreign suppliers

  Learn about key steps in finding foreign suppliers, as well as methods of payment and drawing up a contract.

• Trade Facilitation Office Canada

  Find out about trade seminars and missions, and get help finding suppliers in developing countries.

• Foreign representatives in Canada

  Find contact information and more on representatives from foreign countries and on international organizations currently accredited to Canada.

• Canadian Importers Database

  Find out which companies are importing goods into Canada by product, city and by country of origin.

• Search for a supplier on Canadian Company Capabilities

  Find contact information and business profiles for Canadian suppliers of goods, services and technology.

• Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)

  Get market and sector-specific information, access to Canadian trade commissioners’ coordinates and list of events through the TCS website.

• ThomasNet

  Find American manufacturing companies. Always research the business before placing an order.

• US Commercial Service Canada

  If you are interested in partnering with or importing goods from American companies, this United States government service could help you.

• NAFTA Cross Border Movement of Business Persons

  Learn about temporary entry into the United States and Mexico as a business person under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).