WINNIPEG, Man. — Reimer Express Lines and its parent Roadway Express have received approval from Canada Customs and Revenue Agency to participate in the Customs Self-Assessment (CSA) initiative.

The program was implemented Dec. 3, 2001, and Reimer is one of the first carriers certified for CSA.

“CSA certification provides our customers the utmost in convenience in importing goods from the U.S., as well as the assurance that Reimer Express is recognized by Canada Customs as a dependable and reliable carrier in the International market place,” says Allan Robison, president and chief executive officer of
Reimer Express. “To be one of seven carriers selected out of 140 applicants to receive CSA approval is a real compliment to not only our systems but to our people as well.”

CSA is part of the Customs Blueprint introduced by Canada Customs to streamline processes for low-risk shipments moving into Canada. Initially, only U.S. originated goods will be eligible for the CSA program. Another important requirement is that the Canadian importer, the transportation company and the driver must be CSA-certified.

All of Reimer Express’ international drivers have applied for their Commercial Driver Registration Program (CDRP) cards issued to CSA-approved drivers and are receiving them through the mail at the time of this release.

According to Reimer, CSA importers will receive great benefits. They will be able to monitor and make adjustments in their own systems, and report to customs periodically. The process of paying customs obligations will be simplified, which could mean improved cash flow for participating importers.

Customs will be better able to quickly distinguish between high-risk and low-risk shipments; therefore, customs resources can be focused on those that are higher risk.