Process for Importing
There is a specific process for importing vehicles from the United States. A dealer that specializes in cross-border vehicles can walk a consumer through the whole process (the dealer can do all of the importing). Consumers can contact NAATA at tel: 905-882-7040 or email:
naata@naata.org for a referral.
Consumers who wish to do the importing on their own should consult with the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (
www.riv.ca).
There are several steps to importing a vehicle. The importer should first confirm that the vehicle is eligible for importation. A cross-border specialist can help a consumer determine which vehicles are eligible for importation (most vehicles are eligible).
The manufacturer or an authorized dealer must provide a recall clearance letter and will advise on any modifications required.
Certain documents are required to obtain a Canadian registration for the vehicle, such as the U.S. title documents, sales receipts, statement of compliance label and manufacturer's recall clearance letter.
The importer must declare to U.S. Customs that the vehicle is leaving the country. The required declaration must be sent to U.S. Customs at least 72 hours prior to export and the vehicle must be presented to U.S. Customs at the time of export.
At the border, the vehicle title documents, registration and sales receipts must be presented. A Vehicle Import Form (Form 1) must be completed which will be provided by Canada Border Services Agency.
The importation fee for the Registrar of Imported Vehicles must be paid to Canada Border Services Agency or to the Registrar directly.
The Registrar will then send the importer an inspection document (Form 2) which details what must be done to bring the vehicle into compliance with Canadian safety standards. The importer must then complete any modifications needed by the vehicle (if any).
Finally, the vehicle must undergo an inspection at any Canadian Tire location to ensure the vehicle complies with Canadian safety standards. Following a successful inspection the Registrar will provide the importer with a certification label that must be placed on the vehicle.