How to Import a Boat Into Canada: Duties, Costs & Steps

Importing a boat from the USA to Canada typically takes one border crossing and a few key documents but the costs can surprise you. Most US-made boats qualify for 0% duty under CUSMA/USMCA, though you'll still owe provincial sales tax (PST, HST, or RST depending on where you enter). Here's exactly what to expect and how to do it right.

5 Steps to Take When Asking How to Import a Boat Into Canada

1. Declare any cash

If you are bringing cash with you over the border to make a potential boat purchase, be sure to declare the cash at CBSA as well as US-CBP on your way down. It may take you an extra 1/2 hour stopping at the Canadian side, but it will make the US interview process a lot smoother. You can print the Canadian declaration from the internet.  When at CBSA on your way down, pick up a couple of vehicle import forms so that you can then get a headstart on filling out some of the paperwork. Note that if you declare that you're taking down $20,000 for a purchase, and you only pay $16,000 for the boat, CBSA is going to be looking for you to bring back $4,000 US cash (or receipts for other stuff you bought).

2. Purchasing the boat

Remember to always have a marine mechanic check a boat before you consider purchasing.US boats and trailers have a Certificate of Title document to prove ownership. The form also serves to prove there is nothing officially owing on those assets. When there's a loan in place, the lender usually keeps hold of the title documents. If the boat seller has the titles, and the registered name matches their personal ID, then you can be assured that there are no liens on them. The seller should sign the certificate over to you. Have the seller write up a bill of sale separating the trailer, boat, and motor. You will also need a signed and notarized bill of sale that should cover the boat, motor, and any other gear attached to the boat (stereo, GPS, depth sounder, outriggers, etc.).It’s always a good idea to check the actual serial number stamped on the boat hull, engine, drive unit, and trailer against the titles and bill of sale.

3. Getting a Trailer

You can use a US trailer permit to bring the trailer across, but once you are in Canada you must get Canadian Insurance (ICBC). The trailer must have a valid VIN, so call RIV (Canadian Registrar of Imported Vehicles) to find out if the VIN is valid before you buy. RIV fee (Canadian Registrar of Imported Vehicles) must be paid for trailers less than 15 years old. If the border agent instructs you to pay online, make sure they send the proper forms to RIV for you.

4. At the border

At Canada Customs, declare that you are importing a boat. Declare the value and selling price. You will need to produce ownership and bills of sale for the boat, trailer, and any removable accessories. Sales tax may apply, depending on the province where you enter into Canada. These provinces charge PST (Provincial Sales Tax): British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba (RST), and Québec (QST). These provinces and territories charge HST (Harmonized Sales Tax): New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island. Lucky residents of Alberta, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon pay no sales tax at all.Federal duty is not charged on boats manufactured in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S. based on NAFTA rules, currently being changed to USMCA. Most marine safety equipment is duty-free.

5. Upon returning to Canada

Mail the license plate back. You will need to get a federal inspection on the trailer at a Canadian Tire store. Then you can buy a trailer license at a provincial Driver & Vehicle Licence Office - some provinces charge PST on used trailers. Be sure to hang onto all receipts for 7 years for proof of paid taxes and duties.Get an Application for Pleasure Craft License and get it off to Transport Canada.  

Boat Import Costs, Duties & Common Questions

How much does it cost to import a boat from the USA to Canada?

The main costs are provincial sales tax (5–15% depending on province), a potential RIV fee for trailers under 15 years old (~$295 CAD), and any marine mechanic inspection fees. Federal import duty is 0% for boats manufactured in the US, Canada, or Mexico under CUSMA/USMCA. Budget roughly 5–15% of the boat's purchase price in taxes and fees at the border.

Is there import duty on used boats from the US to Canada?

No federal duty applies to used boats manufactured in the US, Canada, or Mexico. They qualify for 0% duty under the CUSMA/USMCA trade agreement. However, you'll still owe provincial sales tax, which varies by province.

Can I buy a boat in the US and bring it to Canada?

Yes. You'll need to declare the purchase at CBSA, produce a bill of sale and certificate of title, and pay any applicable provincial sales tax. If you're bringing a trailer, additional steps apply including a potential RIV inspection.

What happens to the trailer when importing a boat into Canada?

Trailers under 15 years old must be registered through RIV (Registrar of Imported Vehicles) and pass a Canadian inspection (available at Canadian Tire). You'll also need to get Canadian insurance (ICBC) and a provincial trailer license. The RIV fee is approximately $295 CAD.

Do I need a customs broker to import a boat into Canada?

It's not legally required, but a customs broker can save you time and help avoid costly errors; especially if the paperwork isn't in order or the boat has a lien. BorderBuddy specializes in exactly this type of personal import.

What documents do I need to import a boat from the US to Canada?

You'll need: a signed bill of sale (separate for boat, trailer, and motor), the US Certificate of Title, proof of any cash declared at the border, and ID. A notarized bill of sale is recommended. If you declared cash at CBSA on the way down, bring those receipts too.

Let Us Help Import Your Boat Into Canada

If this process sounds daunting and you’d like to ensure a smooth border crossing, be sure to call the experts at BorderBuddy today to see how we can provide import solutions to make your life easier! CONTACT US TODAY

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