Need advice on setting up Shopify Fulfilment in Canada without a business number?

[joe91]

Hello

I am currently selling my product using Shopify in USA for many years and love the platform!

Recently I have been working with Shopify Fulfilment Network in Canada to setup to sell in Canada.   I currently have a sea shipment of inventory heading to Canada via a west coast port.   I have worked with my Shopify rep to setup things on their end. 

Recently, my freight forwarder/logistic person is asking me for a bussiness number or GST number.   I have neither.  My sales will be most likely less than $10K the first year.  I haven't sold one yet!

I am based in United States.   Can someone advise me on what I should do.   I am in a tough spot because the shipment is on it's way and if I need a Biz number, I need it quickly. 

Any advice would be helpful. 

[TrueProfit_Jen]

Hello @joe91 ,

As a seller based in the United States, you may not need a business number or GST number to sell in Canada. However, you may still need to comply with Canadian tax laws and register for a Canadian sales tax account, depending on the province where you are selling.

The first step is to determine if your product is subject to Canadian sales tax. If your product is taxable, you will need to register for a GST/HST number. If your product is not taxable, you may still need to register for a business number.

You can apply for a GST/HST number or business number online through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) website. The application process typically takes 2-4 weeks, but you may be able to expedite the process by calling the CRA's Business Enquiries line.

If you do need to register for a GST/HST number, you will need to collect and remit sales tax on your Canadian sales. The rate of tax varies by province, so you will need to research the applicable rate in the province where you are selling. Shopify's tax settings can help you automate the tax calculation and collection process.

It's important to note that failure to comply with Canadian tax laws can result in penalties and interest charges. Therefore, it's best to address this issue as soon as possible.

Hope you can fix this issue.

Jen from TrueProfit

[joe91]

Thank you Jen.  I will look into this.  It seems complicated but hopefully once I set it up, it will be more straight forward.