When planning your future meetings and conferences, selecting Montréal brings a tantalising international flair to the proceedings for your guests and attendees. And while hosting an event in Montréal does require the extra steps of getting your materials and delegates within Canada’s borders, with a modicum of pre-planning this process can be smooth and simple.
Here’s how.
Select the right customs broker
Several well-respected customs broker companies operate in Montréal, specializing in wrinkle-free cross-border meeting preparation and finding one to suit your needs is a breeze. We spoke with Diane Labbé Deegan, the co-founder of ConsultExpo and herself a customs broker with over 20 years’ experience, to explain the process of getting you and your events to Montréal.
Share the reins
Once your customs broker has joined the team, you’re ready to start the ball rolling. Following a one-page event registration form with the Canada Border Services Agency, it’s time to hand over the in-Canada reins to your broker and focus on the details that will keep your event first and foremost in the minds of your participants.
Enjoy the freedom of building the big picture experience for your guests while your customs broker works behind the scenes to pull together the necessary on-site minutiae. All steps from shipping to liaising with exhibitors and the CBSA are handled by your broker, from the earliest days of planning to in-person assistance on the day of the event.
Know before you go
Things can change quickly, so savvy planners check back regularly to government website to keep up to date on any changes in documentation requirements. Include a link to the Government of Canada’s easy to navigate Visit Canada site on your conference website and in other communication tools to keep your attendees prepared and up to date.
A few years ago, the Government of Canada introduced the eTA, the Electronic Travel Authorization system, which is now required for many travellers. (Residents of the United States are exempt.) It’s easy to fill out online and just takes a few minutes. The video below lays it all out like a well-packed suitcase.
ArriveCAN
Along with the eTA, to enter Canada, all travellers (including Canadians) must use ArriveCAN to provide mandatory travel and public health information. ArriveCAN helps keep travellers safe and is part of ongoing efforts to modernize the border. The mobile app is free, secure, and available in English, French, and Spanish. Download it at least one day before departure.
Cheat sheet
Company: ConsultExpo
Website: consultexpoinc.com
Phone: 1 514-482-8886 (24/7 Service)
Fax: 1 888-629-9008
Email: info@consultexpoinc.com
Read this next: For your next meeting, take some inspiration from Montréal’s world-famous festivals
