The Canadian Trucking Alliance welcomes further initiatives aimed at bringing greater benefits to trusted traders and cross-border travellers in accordance with the commitments outlined under the Beyond the Border Action Plan.
The announcement was made earlier today by Canadian and U.S. border officials at the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Ont.
Most significant to the trucking industry is the introduction of Non Resident Importers into Canada’s Customs Self Assessment (CSA) program. Previously, only Canadian importers qualified for membership to CSA, but now US companies that import into Canada may also be eligible for the program. While not aimed specifically at the highway carrier program, increased participation from shippers means more qualifying shipments for the FAST lane – a huge benefit for highway carriers hauling those goods.
Also announced today: CSA-Platinum has been unveiled as the new tier of benefits available to CSA importers who voluntarily demonstrate their business systems, internal controls and self-testing processes are effective and reliable at ensuring trade compliance.
CTA – a federation of provincial trucking associations, representing over 4,500 motor carriers – says both initiatives will bring increased benefits to the trade community, which has already made significant investments to become members in the Trusted Trader programs.
A third initiative will introduce “eGate” for NEXUS participants, allowing extended expedited processing at the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Ont.
CTA welcomes the most recent announcements and encourages both Canada and the U.S. to continue working towards further implementation of projects and initiatives pledged under the Border Action Plan, which would improve cross-border transport by helping carriers realize the full benefits of their cross-border investments while boosting trade between the two nations.