Importing Product Samples and Prototypes into Canada: What Businesses Should Know
Importing Product Samples and Prototypes into Canada: What Businesses Should Know Businesses often need to bring products into Canada before they are ready for regular commercial sale. A manufacturer may send samples to a potential distributor, a company may import a prototype for testing, or a supplier may provide demonstration units before a larger purchase order is placed. These shipments can look different from standard commercial imports, but they still need to be properly prepared for entry into Canada. The way a sample or prototype is described, valued, documented, and shipped can affect how the shipment is handled during customs clearance. For companies regularly evaluating new products, having a clear process for importing samples can make supplier development, product testing, and purchasing decisions much easier. What Is Considered a Product Sample or Prototype? A product sample is generally an item brought into Canada so a business can evaluate, demonstrate, test,











