What is an ITN for Importing a Vehicle into Canada?

How to get your Internal Transaction Number (ITN):

An ITN (Importer Transaction Number) is a crucial component in the process of importing a vehicle into Canada. It serves as a unique identifier for each import transaction, ensuring a smooth and compliant entry of your vehicle into Canadian territory. When you plan to import a vehicle, you are required to obtain an ITN as part of the documentation process. This number is provided by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and is essential for tracking and managing your import. The ITN is used in all relevant customs documentation and is a key requirement in meeting the regulatory and customs protocols of Canada. By securing an ITN, importers are able to streamline their vehicle's entry, ensuring all legal and administrative requirements are efficiently and accurately addressed.

Step 1: Contact BorderBuddy

Contact BorderBuddy and let us know when you are ready to import your vehicle. The BorderBuddy team will request paperwork based on who you purchased the vehicle from and what you are using it for.

You will always need to provide:

1. Bill of sale with the Full Name and Address of each party involved.
2. Copy of the vehicle’s title (front and back).

If you are importing a car for personal use, whether it's from a private seller or a dealer, you will also need to provide

3. A copy of the importer’s passport.

If you are importing a car for business use, whether it's from a private seller or a dealer, you will also need to provide the

4. Importer’s GST#, address, and phone number.

If you are a Canadian citizen returning with a U.S.–plated vehicle, your broker will request:

5. Kelly Blue Book value (PDF or print out).
6. A copy of the vehicle’s title (front and back).
7. Your Canadian address with phone number.

If your vehicle is a gift or inheritance:

8. Kelly Blue Book value (PDF or print out).
9. A gift letter or letter from the estate.
10. A copy of the vehicle’s title (front and back).
11. A copy of the importer’s passport.

Step 2: Declare your crossing information

Let us know:

• The border crossing (port of entry) you plan to use. Note: You can only cross at the specific border crossing that you specify.
• The exact date you plan to cross.
• If you are using a transport company, provide the carrier’s company name and contact information.

Step 3: Wait 72 hours

• BorderBuddy will submit the necessary paperwork to US Customs and Border Patrol (US CBP) and wait for their response. Once CBP approves the export, the 72-hour countdown will begin. BorderBuddy will then email you the paperwork, and you will have the option to either proceed with a full import through BorderBuddy or self-declare your vehicle.
• Please make sure to inform BorderBuddy if any of your information changes before you cross, as all changes must be submitted to the US and Canada Customs before you physically cross the border. This includes changes such as the day and the border crossing port you plan to use.

Frequently asked questions:

Q: How long does the entire ITN process take?

Once you provide BorderBuddy with the information we need to process the ITN on your behalf, BorderBuddy will apply for the ITN with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Receiving approval from US CBP can take up to 24 hours, which is when the clock starts on the 72 hours wait time. It’s also important to note that the 72 hours is based on business working days (i.e., weekends and stat holidays do not count). A handy tool for calculating 72 hours from the start of the ITN clock is https://datetimego.com/72-hours-from-now and add one Day for the application process.

Q: It’s my understanding that once the export request has been made, the car needs to remain in the US for 72 hours, is that a min of 72 hours or an ‘up to 72 hours’?

After filing the export papers and completing the mandatory 72-hour waiting period, the following key points should be noted:

• Export Window: Usually, you have a few weeks to a month to export the vehicle after the 72-hour period. Always confirm the exact timeframe with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the relevant authority.
• Validity of Export Approval: Check how long the U.S. Customs' export approval is valid to prevent complications.
• Extensions: If you can't export within the given time, contact the authority for possible extensions or further instructions.
• Re-Submission of Papers: If the validity period lapses, you'll need to re-submit the export papers and wait another 72 hours.
• Stay Updated: Regulations can change; always verify the latest rules with the appropriate authorities.

Proper planning within these timeframes is essential for a smooth export process and to avoid legal issues.