CSA reporting requirements support a streamlined border clearance process and vary by mode of transportation. CSA clearance is used to request the "authority to deliver" CSA-eligible commercial goods imported by a CSA-approved importer. A key feature of the CSA system is that cargo documents are not required for clearing CSA-approved shipments. However, if a border services officer requests it, the CSA-approved carrier must provide satisfactory evidence of the goods discharged into Canada. The carrier must maintain appropriate records, systems, audit trails, and linkages to support the CSA process.

Required information in an approved bar-code format includes:

1. The CSA-approved carrier's identification (a four-character carrier code),
2. The CSA-approved importer's identification (a 15-digit business number), and
3. The registered driver's identification number (for highway mode only).

CSA clearance allows for the direct delivery of eligible goods to the importer, owner, or consignee. For more details about presenting barcodes at the Primary Inspection Line (PIL), refer to Memorandum D3-1-7, Customs Self Assessment Program for Carriers.