During a commercial inspection of a cargo shipment manifested as 'clothing', you notice several boxes are unusually heavy and emit a strong, chemical odour. The invoice appears to be in order, but the shipper's address is listed as a residential dwelling. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

Question: During a commercial inspection of a cargo shipment manifested as 'clothing', you notice several boxes are unusually heavy and emit a strong, chemical odour. The invoice appears to be in order, but the shipper's address is listed as a residential dwelling. What is the MOST appropriate next step?

Answer options: ✅ Conduct a more thorough physical examination of the suspicious boxes, potentially opening them.

• Release the shipment as the manifest and invoice appear initially correct.
• Contact the shipper directly by phone to clarify the contents.
• Alert local police immediately due to the unusual odour.

Correct answer: Conduct a more thorough physical examination of the suspicious boxes, potentially opening them.

Explanation: Unusual weight and odour, combined with a questionable shipper's address, are red flags that warrant a more thorough physical examination. This is part of a CBSA officer's duties to verify declarations and detect undeclared or prohibited goods.