The Customs Self Assessment Program is geared towards low risk, pre-approved importers, carriers, and registered drivers. Once approved, members have access to a dedicated lane and a simplified authorization process which can greatly reduce transportation times and the chances of border complications. In addition the CSA should improve customs compliance by simplifying the reporting process and reducing most discrepancies.

The main benefits for importers using the Customs Self Assessment program within the E-Manifest system are:

• Removal of the need to maintain separate and expensive customs processes
• Reduction in the number of border transaction and transmissions further reducing the room for error.
• Help in  aligning importers financial records with the CBSA's requirements to increase communication and compliance
• Increases in expedited customs processing
• Improvements in the communication between importer and the CBSA to help increase awareness and understanding of the CBSA's expectations.
   

Using the CSA can help reduce the costs and delays that are likely to coincide with the introduction of the E-Manifest Program. A supply chain maximized with the Customs Self Assessment strategy is faster, cheaper, and more reliable. Goods being transferred from locations close to the border no longer need to be held up with lengthy customs processing, and the newly enforced 1 hour rule put forth by the E-Manifest program.