RELEASE NOTIFICATION SYSTEM (RNS)

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) 

 The Release Notification System (RNS) was at first introduced and made mandatory to cross at the Ambassador Bridge coming northbound into Canada. It is an electronic system that can be used to notify RNS clients of customs releases and for RNS clients to notify the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that a certain shipment has arrived in Canada.

A number of carriers (operational dispatch staff) are unaware that the RNS system can be used at all northbound Canadian Ports and not only the Ambassador Bridge. This is the reason for this BLOG. If you are aware fine, if not it is recommended you explore further to enhance your operation.

Eligibility Criteria

* Transportation carriers

* Commercial importers

* Customs brokers

* Warehouse operators

 Summary

RNS gives importers, brokers, warehouse operators and transportation carriers information via computer on customs releases. RNS offers different features, including:

1. Automatic Release

The CBSA regularly contacts RNS clients via computer to notify them individually of their released shipments. The client can use this information to schedule deliveries and prepare import documents.

2. Arrival Certification

The client can notify the CBSA when a shipment of importd goods arrives in Canada. The CBSA will then send a message to the client that the shipment is either released or referred for examination.

3. Status Query

Prior to the arrival of a shipment, the client can transmit a status query to determine if the importer/broker has submitted/transmitted the release package/data to the CBSA for processing and, therefore, awaiting goods’ arrival. Once the goods have arrived, the client can transmit a status query to determine the release status of a shipment.

4. Automatic Status

Prior to the arrival of a shipment, the client can automatically receive a message as to whether or not the importer/broker has submitted/transmitted the release package/date to the CBSA for processing and, therefore, awaiting goods’ arrival.

Terms and Conditions

To use the RNS, you either have to get an electronic data interchange (EDI) mailbox with a third-party value added network (VAN) which is connected to the CBSA or transmit and recieve over a Customs Automated Data Exchange (CADEX) line or the Internet. RNS applicants may be asked by the CBSA to have their systems tested before getting approval. If for example you are using CimsonLogic as your ACE third party provider, you simply call them and get added onto the system for RNS.

 Where and How to Apply

Canada – 888-957-7224

Quebec – 800-461-9999

Web site: http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/menu-eng.html

The above references to client (read dispatcher). The driver in U.S. sends paperwork with PARS to Broker. Once confirmed receipt driver notifies dispatch who then monitors screen for a transaction number which is then passed to the driver. Driver then knows the entry is cleared and CBSA awaits his/her arrival. Very efficient system it is.