We spoke to the CFO here in Ontario. If the item was purchased before the 18th, regardless of when it ships a reference number is not required, even if it does not ship for several weeks / months.
It was explained its the same situation as warranty work. A reference number is not required if an NR rifle is being sent somewhere for work. A reference number is only required on NR rifles changing ownership after the 17th. Anyone who says different is beating the drum of fear mongering... most likely to get donations to their organization so they can have nice inflation adjusted pay raise.