Cargo Seizures and Customs Detainment

Cargo seizures and customs detainment can result from suspected customs law breaches, tariff classification discrepancies, or non-compliance with import controls. Our lawyers for customs disputes provide rapid legal assistance in these matters, addressing ascertained forfeitures, customs enforcement, and customs audits initiated by the Canada Border Services Agency.

We advise clients on voluntary disclosures, customs valuation, and responses to enforcement actions, guiding them through Federal Court appeals and Canadian International Trade Tribunal reviews.

Delayed or Misdelivered Shipments

Delays and misdeliveries in international transport often trigger liability under international trade conventions and trade agreements. Our lawyers help clients resolve disputes arising from logistics failures, regulations violations, and documentation errors, ensuring business continuity and regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions.

Disputes Over Tariffs, Duties, and Documentation Errors

Our international trade lawyers advise on customs duties, tariff classification, and customs valuation disputes, including errors in import or export documentation. We appear before the Federal Court, Canadian International Trade Tribunal, and administrative trade bodies, offering representation in trade remedy matters and appeals involving customs, tax, and services tax liabilities.

Liability Under International Transport Conventions

We have considerable experience interpreting and applying international conventions governing transportation, including the Carriage of Goods by Road (CMR) and Warsaw and Montreal Conventions. Our lawyers advise transportation clients on legal risks, insurance, and liability issues related to cross border trade and global trade transactions.

The Role of a Customs Dispute Lawyer

A customs dispute lawyer plays a critical role in protecting clients from customs penalties, enforcement actions, and costly litigation. Our lawyers assist clients in preparing for customs audits, addressing import controls, and managing voluntary disclosures to ensure compliance with customs law and international trade regulations.

Our firm provides trusted legal advice and strategic representation in customs, trade, and transportation matters, serving businesses throughout Ontario. We focus on delivering practical, results-driven solutions that reflect each client’s specific business and regulatory needs.

How Our Cross-Border Transportation Lawyer Can Help

Our lawyers work closely with key contacts within the transportation and trade sectors to provide strategic advice and effective representation. Drawing on our deep understanding of the Canadian legal framework, we guide clients through complex customs, trade, and regulatory requirements with a national reach that supports businesses across Canada.

We offer a full spectrum of legal services related to cross-border transportation, customs, and international trade, helping clients manage both day-to-day operations and high-stakes disputes. We respond quickly to customs issues, disputes, and enforcement actions while providing proactive legal planning to assist clients in maintaining compliance and minimizing exposure under trade and tax rules.

We regularly advise on financing, technology, trade agreements, and free trade initiatives to help business clients expand within global trade markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my cargo is seized at the border?

If your cargo has been detained or seized by the Canada Border Services Agency, contact a lawyer for customs disputes immediately. We will review the customs law basis for the seizure, file objections where necessary, and represent you before the Canadian International Trade Tribunal or Federal Court.

Can I challenge customs penalties or detainment decisions?

Yes. Many customs detentions and penalties can be appealed through administrative reviews or judicial proceedings. Our lawyers will guide you through customs enforcement processes and advise on voluntary disclosures and import controls to achieve the most effective dispute resolution outcome.

How are cross-border transport disputes resolved between Canada and the U.S.?

Most cross border transportation and customs disputes are governed by international trade conventions and trade agreements such as free trade pacts between Canada and the United States. We handle litigation, arbitration, and settlement negotiations under applicable international law and transportation treaties.

What laws govern international shipping disputes in Canada?

International trade and customs disputes in Canada are primarily governed by the Customs Act, import controls regulations, trade remedy matters, and free trade agreements. Our lawyers appear before the Canadian International Trade Tribunal and Federal Court to provide representation and advice on all related legal issues.