B4 and B4a and shipping personal effects

[cleo]

Sorry, but I can't find a thread about this topic. Is there one?

I understand that 2 copies of each form are needed when declaring goods brought in.  But I don't understand why the two forms.  What is the difference between them?   You have to list the effects, but on the B4  there isn't as much room as the B4a.   And what do you need to declare?  Clothing and personal items as well?   How detailed should the list be?   

Also, my husband practices Japanese sword fencing and needs to ship his swords (they are only practice swords) beforehand.  Do you think he would need any other documentation for them?   They are weapons but I don't think they are in the same category as firearms.   Maybe I should just phone border services. 

[wilson]

I understand that 2 copies of each form are needed when declaring goods brought in.  But I don't understand why the two forms.  What is the difference between them?   You have to list the effects, but on the B4  there isn't as much room as the B4a.   And what do you need to declare?  Clothing and personal items as well?   How detailed should the list be?


If you are sending by unaccompanied cargo shipment  "GOODS TO FOLLOW"  there could be few packages:

The B4 forms are to be made two copies One for CBSA and one for you. B4a is the continuation of it.

. A stamped copy you get from CBSA is necessary to clear the goods from Customs free when it arrived later.

You can group the goods to follow  items and show together instead of itemizing for individual count.

example only : Men's wear assorted  =  10 pair  or  one box   Value   CAD 50

   Assorted ladies dress :  20 pair  or two box : CAD 100

Shoes : 12 pair    =  CAD 40

Kitchen utensils assorted  :  2 box   ;  100 CAD

Sheets, curtains and other linen: 2 box: 200 CAD

.............

................

If no GOODS to FOLLOW :
If your personal items are brought  in your accompanied baggage, no need to  fill the B4 forms. You can make a rough list or  just talk to the officer at the counter what do you have brought. Moreover you get an embarkation form from the flight before landing. That would be enough.

Regarding the sword like weapon (?) talk to CBSA before shipping.

[cleo]

Okay, so I read further and it seems like you fill out the B4a, listing all your things (though it does say list things with you and list the things coming later separately).   The officer looks at the B4a and then fills out a B4.  (which I think you can fill out most of the details beforehand?)   Then you take that B4 as a receipt and present it when picking up your stuff. 

I knew I shouldn't have been reading this stuff last night when I was tired.  But it's all so exciting and I just want to make sure everything is done properly!

Thanks Wilson.

[steaky]

Actually you take the stamped B4 to the local CBSA office at your scheduled appointment, then the officers will inform your shipping company that your shipments are cleared before your shipments can be deliver to your door.