Complying with the Single Window Initiative – what you need to know

The Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) Single Window Initiative (SWI) streamlines the sharing of commercial import data between the Government of Canada and the import community. Alongside the CBSA, it consists of nine participating government agencies representing 38 government programs.

Why was it introduced?  

The SWI reflects a commitment made by Canada and the United States under the ‘Beyond the Border Action Plan’, to integrate government requirements into a single system and simplify border processes.  

It is a significant improvement on the existing paper-based, time-intensive approach, which required importers to make separate submissions of import data to up to 47 different agencies using close to 200 forms. 

What does it aim to do?  

In simple terms, the SWI was designed to deliver three primary outcomes.  

Firstly, to eliminate duplicate and redundant data requirements and processes by enabling the trade community to electronically submit all import data in a single declaration. Secondly, to minimise the use of paper documents, which are very difficult to track and keep secure. And finally, to better align with the US Customs and Border Protection and the World Customs Organisation data model. 

How does it work?  

Through the SWI, traders are able to provide all required import information electronically to the CBSA. 

In turn, the CBSA transmits the information to the appropriate department or agency responsible for regulating the goods, who then assess the information and provide any border-related decisions required.  

How can I stay compliant?  

CargoWise is a single-platform software solution that shares customs entry data across your operations and network of partners, allowing you to enter data once, then transfer it to a new entry automatically, any time and from anywhere.   

It has direct interfaces to the CBSA’s systems, so you can be confident you're keeping pace with compliance rules and regulations – such as the SWI – while also enjoying increased visibility and operational efficiencies.

Want to accelerate the speed and accuracy of your customs clearance processes? Create, manage and clear your import and export customs declarations in more than 30 countries with CargoWise. Learn more

Need help optimising your productivity with CargoWise? Our global CargoWise Partner network helps customers of all sizes implement and configure CargoWise to suit your business needs. Find out how