Importing or exporting goods
Don't travel with commercial goods
UVic staff should not travel with goods that need to be imported/exported. This may cause delays to the traveller and cause goods to be impounded. We ask that all staff document and ship goods to/from their destination separately.
How to import goods
Are you receiving an international shipment? Planning to order online from a foreign supplier? Please know that every international shipment to UVic requires the completion of the notice of shipment form, including samples, gifts and donations.
What's the purpose of the Notice of Shipment form?
To provide all the necessary details to UVic's customs broker (Thompson Ahern) to clear the shipment with customs when it arrives in Canada. GST is assessed and collected at this point - faciliated by UVic's customs broker.
NOTE: some US vendors are registered for CAD taxes and will therefore act as the importer of the shipment to Canada. If you have paid GST to a US vendor then NO notice of shipment form is required since you already paid GST to the vendor. Questions? Reach out to purchase@uvic.ca
Cost for importing goods
There may be additional costs associated with the purchase of goods and services from outside of Canada, review the cost elements of international purchases information to ensure that these are considered before committing to an international vendor.
CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) Customs Notices on Surtax:
How to export goods
Do you need to export goods or equipment? All exports must clear customs, including temporary shipments such as items sent for repair, calibrations, or loan.
FedEx is the preferred courier service and will provide documentation for export. Information on how to create an account with Fedex.
For questions reach out to purchase@uvic.ca. Allow at least 72 hours prior to the anticipated shipment date.
What is a passport for goods?
Please review the ATA Carnet Fact Sheet