For Canadian small businesses, preparing for 2026 isn't just about moving goods, it's about staying compliant. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has completed its transition to the new Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system, and with it comes a major change: every importer must now post their own financial security to access Release Prior to Payment (RPP).
In the past, many small importers leaned on their customs brokers' security. That safety net is gone. By January 15, 2026, importers must meet updated financial security requirements based on their transaction history. Without a RPP bond, the risks are real: shipments stuck at the border, duties paid upfront and costly penalties.
Why RPP matters for small importers
Protecting cash flow: RPP bonds let goods move before duties and taxes are paid, keeping liquidity intact.
Avoiding penalties: CBSA recalculates security requirements annually. Falling short can mean fines or shipment holds.
Supporting growth: Small businesses make up nearly 98% of all employer businesses in Canada, many of which depend on imports.1 Even small disruptions can ripple across supply chains.
Managing rising volumes: As imports continue to grow, compliance missteps become more expensive and more disruptive.
How RPP bonds protect you
Think of RPP bonds as a built-in safety net that:
- Shields against unexpected duties if CBSA reassesses values
- Keeps shipments moving by ensuring goods clear customs electronically
- Reduces financial risk from compliance errors or disputes
For small importers, an RPP bond isn't just about checking a compliance box, it's about building resilience into your business.
Gallagher's proactive solution
At Gallagher, we understand that small businesses don't have the luxury of absorbing unexpected costs. Our surety bonds are tailored to meet CBSA's evolving requirements, helping importers:
- Secure compliance with CARM's 2026 deadlines.
- Maintain smooth trade operations without cash flow interruptions.
- Start the year strong with confidence in their supply chain.
Key takeaways for 2026
Deadline alert: Importers must meet updated RPP financial security requirements by January 15, 2026.
No broker coverage: Customs broker bonds no longer apply; importers must secure their own.
Gallagher advantage: Our surety bonds provide the compliance edge small businesses need to thrive in a competitive trade environment.
Beyond RPP: Other coverages to consider
While RPP bonds are the immediate priority, they're only one piece of the puzzle. Importers also face risks that go beyond customs compliance:
- Product liability: Protects against claims if imported goods cause harm
- Business interruption: Covers lost income if operations are disrupted
- Property in transit: Safeguards goods while they're on the move
Together, these coverages create a stronger safety net, helping importers not just survive compliance changes but thrive in a competitive trade environment.
Compliance is no longer a back-office task, it's a frontline business strategy. With CBSA's 2026 updates, small importers can't afford to overlook RPP bonds. Gallagher is here to ensure you don't just meet the requirements; you leverage them to grow stronger, more resilient trade operations.
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Source
1Blair, Nicole. "Small Business Statistics in Canada," Made in CA, updated 31 Dec 2024.