Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in Canada, and the country is a significant importer of coffee beans. As a result, there is a significant opportunity for businesses looking to import coffee to Canada. However, navigating the complexities of importing coffee can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the process. Calculating all those customs taxes and duties is a daunting task. All successful businessmen use Deepbeez Customs Duty Calculator to get a real glimpse of their costs.

The Best Way to Import Coffee To Canada

The process has several steps, but if you find a good supplier who knows the Canadian market, they can help you with most of the complicated parts. Remember to keep all your paperwork for 6 years – it’s the law! Want to import coffee to Canada? Here’s what you need to know.

Step	What You Need to Do	Key Requirements
1. Find Supplier	Choose a reliable coffee supplier	• Supplier must have export licenses • Look for direct trade suppliers who know Canadian market • They should handle shipping and customs
2. Register Business	Get government permits to import	• Get Business Number (BN) from Canada Revenue Agency • Register with CARM system through CBSA • Assign a Business Account Manager
3. Follow Rules	Make sure coffee meets Canadian standards	• Follow Canadian Food and Drug rules • May need CFIA inspection • Get SFCR license for large imports• Ensure fair labor practices
4. Ship & Label	Arrange transport and proper labeling	• Let supplier handle shipping (recommended) • Labels must show country of origin • Use English and French on labels • Budget $2-4 USD per kg for shipping
5. Clear Customs	Get coffee through Canadian border	• Fill out customs forms • Consider hiring a customs broker • May need financial security for fast clearance
6. Pay Fees	Handle duties and taxes	• Most coffee enters duty-free • No GST on raw coffee imports • GST/HST applies when you sell in Canada

What Are Legal Requirements for Coffee Import?

Before importing coffee to Canada, it is important to understand the legal requirements that must be met. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for ensuring that all imported food products, including coffee, meet Canadian food safety standards. In addition, you must prepare all the necessary documents required for customs clearance in Canada.

As such, any coffee imported into Canada must comply with the following regulations:

1. Food Safety Requirements: All food products, including coffee, imported into Canada must be safe for human consumption. The CFIA requires that coffee importers obtain a license to import and sell food products in Canada.
2. Labeling Requirements: The labels on coffee products imported into Canada must be accurate and comply with Canadian labeling laws. The labels must include information such as the product name, country of origin, ingredients, and nutrition information.
3. Packaging Requirements: The packaging of coffee products must be suitable for transport and storage, and must comply with Canadian packaging laws.
4. Customs Clearance: All coffee imports must clear customs and comply with Canadian customs laws.

You need these papers for every coffee shipment:

• Customs Declaration Form

Fill out a form for Canadian border agents
Required even if you don’t owe any fees
A customs broker can do this for you

• Commercial Invoice

Bill/receipt from your coffee seller
Shows what you bought and how much you paid

• Certificate of Origin

Paper proving which country grew the coffee
Must match the labels on your coffee bags

• Plant Health Certificate (Phytosanitary Certificate)

Document showing the coffee is safe and healthy
Proves no plant diseases or pests

• Information You Must Provide

When filling out customs forms, you need:

• What type of coffee it is (green beans, roasted, decaf, etc.)
• HS Code – a special number that identifies your product type (If you’re still unsure about which HS code truly match your product description, use Deepbeez HS code search tool and receive the most accurate code in just seconds.)
• Which country grew the coffee (must be on all packaging too)
• How much the coffee weighs

The Best Options for Logistics When Importing Coffee to Canada

The logistics of importing coffee to Canada can be complex, and it is important to have a thorough understanding of the process. The following are some important considerations when importing coffee to Canada:

1. Shipping: Coffee can be shipped to Canada by air or sea. The choice of shipping method will depend on the quantity of coffee being imported, the time frame for delivery, and the cost.
2. Transport: Once the coffee has arrived in Canada, it must be transported to its final destination. This may involve the use of trucks, trains, or other modes of transportation.
3. Storage: Coffee must be stored in a clean, dry, and secure location to prevent damage and ensure product quality. The storage facilities must meet Canadian food safety standards.
4. Distribution: Once the coffee has been cleared by customs, it can be distributed to its final destination. This may involve working with a local distributor or setting up a distribution network.

Discover more: Duty from Canada to U.S.; Recent Changes + New Tariff Rates

Important Considerations:

In addition to the legal and logistical requirements, there are several other important considerations when importing coffee to Canada:

1. Quality Control: It is important to ensure that the coffee being imported meets the desired quality standards. This may involve working with suppliers to obtain samples and conducting quality control checks.
2. Pricing: The price of coffee can fluctuate, and it is important to establish a pricing strategy that takes into account the cost of importing, shipping, and distribution.
3. Payment Terms: Importers should establish clear payment terms with suppliers, including payment methods and timelines.
4. Certification: Some coffee importers may choose to obtain certification from organizations such as Fairtrade or Rainforest Alliance to demonstrate their commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing practices.

 

Importing coffee to Canada can be a complex process, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a lucrative business opportunity. It is important to comply with Canadian food safety and customs regulations, understand the logistics of importing coffee, and consider important factors such as quality control, pricing, payment terms, and certification. By following these guidelines, businesses can successfully import coffee to Canada and tap into the country’s love for this popular beverage.

How Can I Easily Import Coffee to Canada?

When it comes to importing coffee to Canada, there are some key statistics and trends to keep in mind. According to Statista, the total value of coffee imports to Canada in 2020 was approximately 567 million Canadian dollars. The majority of this coffee came from the United States, followed by Colombia, Brazil, and Vietnam.

One important factor to consider when importing coffee to Canada is the country’s regulations around coffee labeling. Canada requires that all coffee packaging include specific information such as the country of origin, the coffee’s grade, and the roast date. This information must be clear and easy to read on the packaging.

Another important consideration is the quality of the coffee being imported. Canadian consumers are becoming increasingly discerning when it comes to their coffee choices, and there is a growing demand for high-quality, sustainably-sourced coffee. Importers should ensure that they are sourcing their coffee from reputable producers and that it meets the standards of Canadian consumers.

In terms of the types of coffee that are popular in Canada, there is a strong market for specialty coffees such as organic, fair trade, and single-origin coffees. There is also a growing interest in cold brew and iced coffee products, which offer a refreshing alternative to traditional hot coffee drinks.

When it comes to the logistics of importing coffee to Canada, it is important to work with a reputable shipping company that has experience in handling perishable goods. Coffee should be shipped in a way that ensures it arrives in Canada as fresh as possible. This may involve using specialized containers or temperature-controlled shipping methods.

Finally, it is important to consider the customs and duties that may apply to importing coffee to Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulates the importation of coffee and other food products. Importers should be aware of any applicable tariffs or taxes, as well as any regulations around the importation of coffee.

In conclusion, importing coffee to Canada can be a lucrative business opportunity for those who are able to navigate the country’s regulations and consumer preferences. By sourcing high-quality coffee, working with reputable shipping companies, and staying up-to-date on Canadian regulations, importers can successfully bring coffee products to the Canadian market.

FAQ

1. “Do I have to pay duty on coffee imports to Canada?”
   Answer: Most coffee (especially green beans) enters Canada duty-free. However, you’ll pay GST/HST when you sell it to customers. Some processed coffee like instant coffee may have duties.
2. “Can I import coffee as a small business or do I need to be a big company?”
   Answer: Anyone can import coffee as long as you have a Business Number and CARM registration. Size doesn’t matter – many small roasters successfully import directly from farms.
3. “How much does it actually cost to ship coffee to Canada per kg?”
   Answer: Expect around $2-4 USD per kilogram for shipping costs on top of the coffee price. This includes transportation, documentation, and insurance.
4. “Should I use a customs broker or can I handle customs myself?”
   Answer: You can do it yourself, but most people recommend using a customs broker for your first few imports. They prevent costly mistakes and delays. Cost is usually worth the peace of mind.
5. “What’s this CARM thing everyone talks about? Do I really need it?”
   Answer: Yes, CARM registration is mandatory since October 2024. It’s the online system where you pay duties and taxes. Without it, your coffee gets stuck at the border.
6. “How long does the whole import process take from ordering to receiving?”
   Answer: Typically 4-8 weeks depending on origin and shipping method. Ocean shipping is slower but much cheaper than air freight.
7. “Do I need any special food licenses to import coffee?”
   Answer: For small quantities, usually no. For large commercial imports or specialty coffee, you might need an SFCR license. The CFIA will let you know if required.
8. “What happens if I mess up the paperwork – will my coffee be destroyed?”
   Answer: Your shipment will be held at the border until issues are resolved. You’ll pay storage fees daily. It won’t be destroyed, but delays are expensive and stressful.
9. “Can I import any type of coffee or are there restrictions?”
   Answer: Most coffee types are fine, but it must meet Canadian food safety standards. Avoid anything with additives that aren’t approved in Canada. Stick to pure coffee for simplest process.
10. “Is it better to work directly with farmers or use an importer/distributor?”
    Answer: Direct trade is great if the farmer has export experience and proper licenses. Otherwise, working with an experienced exporter/importer is safer for beginners – they handle the complex logistics for you.