Certification of Origin CUSMA

Getting It Done: Filling Out the CUSMA Form PDF

The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) has streamlined trade across North America, replacing NAFTA with new provisions to simplify the process and enhance economic collaboration. If you’re an importer, exporter, or manufacturer dealing with cross-border trade among these countries, understanding and filling out the CUSMA Certificate of Origin is crucial to claiming preferential duty rates.

What is the blank CUSMA Form?

Under CUSMA, a Certificate of Origin is a vital document used to declare that your goods meet the specified criteria to qualify for preferential tariff treatment. By submitting this form, your goods may be exempt from certain tariffs and quotas, thus reducing costs and streamlining your trade operations. Unlike NAFTA, CUSMA does not require a standard format but mandates specific data elements be included to claim preference.

Why is the CUSMA Form Fillable Important?

The Certificate of Origin under CUSMA serves as a declaration of compliance with the agreement's Rules of Origin. It ensures that your goods qualify for lower duty rates, directly affecting your cost structures and competitive pricing. This document is essential for both the customs authorities in the importing country and for businesses aiming to optimize their supply chain efficiency.

How to Fill Out the CUSMA Certificate of Origin Template

Even though there isn't a standardized format, the CUSMA requires specific data to be included for the certificate to be valid. These elements include:

• Exporter Information: Name, address, and contact details.
• Producer Information: Name, address, and contact details if different from the exporter.
• Importer Information: Name, address, and contact details.
• Description of Goods: Include a detailed description of the products being shipped.
• HS Tariff Classification Number: The appropriate code according to the Harmonized System (HS).
• Origin Criterion: Specify how the goods qualify under the Rules of Origin.
• Certification Statement: Attestation of the accuracy of the information provided.

Who Should Complete the CUSMA Certificate Template

While the onus to claim preferential duty rates lies with the importer, it is usually the producer or exporter who completes the certificate. These parties are more likely to have detailed knowledge about the goods' eligibility. The completed form should then be provided to the importer for submission to customs authorities.