I've seen on a few threads that the immigrations officers on arrival won't sign GTF lists for people on TWP's (they deem it not necessary).

What do you then do about custom's clearance for your goods when they arrive?

I know a few people who werent' even asked for it. No problems when they collected their containers though.

agreed, never even asked for a GTF list when i applied for TWP at POE, no issue when picking up container at customs. My view was that if they did not request it at landing it was not required. I was certainly not going to ask why they hand not requested it!

You don't need the GTF list because you're not a settler importing anything - it's assumed you take your goods out of Canada again when your work permit expires. I guess you should have some sort of inventory to show if customs ask for one when you clear the container, but not a GTF form and nothing stamped at the airport.

Oh ok, that's easier than I thought - how do they know that you're not staying (in theory) though?

I think anyone with a permit for <3yrs doesn't have to import their goods. When you get PR I guess you'd give them a GTF list and make your possessions permanent in Canada at that point

I mean, when your goods arrive for customs clearance, how will they know you're on a TWP if you've got nothing to give them?

Show them your TWP, and that it's for less than 3yrs?