Q. Where can I get Canada shipping forms?

A: Forms and instructions for shipping to and from Canada are available in our convenient Forms Library. You can also request copies from your Estes sales representative at your local terminal.

Q: How do I set up a shipment to or from Canada?

A: For northbound shipments to Canada, call your local terminal and speak to a customer care representative.

To set up a southbound shipment originating in Canada, call 1-866-ESTES4U and press 433.

Q: What is the Rapid Clear Form?

A: The Rapid Clear Form is a time-saving document that can simplify the paperwork needed to ship freight northbound to Canada. Be sure to read the Rapid Clear instructions carefully to determine whether additional documentation is required for your shipment. If you're claiming NAFTA status, you will still need to provide a NAFTA Certificate of Origin unless a current version is already on file with your customs broker.

Q: What is PARS?

A: The Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) is used to process customs paperwork before northbound freight reaches the U.S./Canada border. As a result, the freight crosses into Canada much more quickly.

Q: How do I make sure my freight takes advantage of PARS?

A: Submitting complete and accurate paperwork to the correct customs broker is critical in order for PARS to work. Be sure to indicate your request for PARS clearance on either the Bill of Lading or the Rapid Clear Form, depending on which you're using.

Q: What happens if my northbound freight doesn't clear PARS?

A: In the rare instances when freight doesn't clear PARS en route to Canada, it goes to a licensed sufferance warehouse in the Estes network for temporary storage until the freight is released by Canada Customs. Canada bonding fees will apply, and are usually paid by the importer.

Q: What is PAPS?

A: The Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS) is the U.S. equivalent of PARS; it allows customs paperwork to be processed before southbound freight reaches the Canada/U.S. border. As a result, the freight crosses into the U.S. faster.

Q: What happens if my southbound freight doesn't clear PAPS?

A: In the rare instances when freight doesn't clear PAPS en route to the U.S., it goes to a licensed in-bond facility in the Estes network for temporary storage until the freight is released by U.S. Customs. U.S. in-bond fees will apply, and are typically paid by the importer.

Q: Do I need to arrange for a customs broker?

A: Yes, you will need a customs broker—but it's usually the importer who chooses the broker. The importer can either be the consignee or a non-resident importer. If the importer does not have a broker for southbound freight, Estes has in-house broker capabilities through Estes Forwarding Worldwide. They can be reached at 1-866-ESTES4U (Press 453).

Q: How many sets of customs documents do I need to provide?

A: Two. One set is attached to the shipment. The other travels with the driver and is attached to the Bill of Lading.