Importing Cars to Canada in a Time of COVID-19

The Canadian government has put restrictions on travel since closing the border due to the COVID-19 pandemic and you may be wondering how to import a car from the U.S. into Canada. This is a breakdown of exactly what has changed and how it impacts importing a vehicle to Canada.

No self-importing

You cannot self import right now because there is a government-mandated quarantine of 14 days for non-essential people. Normally, picking a car up yourself can save you time and money, but it is virtually impossible to do that at the moment because the quarantine will impact you directly when you re-enter the country.Because self-importing is not an option right now due to the quarantine, many people are contacting BorderBuddy for a seamless import experience, as we can handle all the details of the transaction from start to finish.If you were planning to use a shipping company to pick the car up, then there is no difference between buying now vs. pre-COVID-19 government restrictions. If you are wondering how to import a car using a shipping company, BorderBuddy has an exclusive relationship with a few shipping partners. Based on your specific needs, we can match you to the right agent.

How much does it cost to import a car into Canada?

This depends on how quickly you want to take delivery of the vehicle. The shipping partners that we work with offer varying options, including next-day delivery. Regardless of the new government restrictions, this is a breakdown of steps you need to take to make when importing a car to Canada a seamless process:

Before you take the plunge:

• What’s the current Canadian exchange rate? A sagging loonie can turn your bargain into a big sticker item.
• What are the import duties and taxes on the vehicle? They vary depending on the make and model.
• Will the vehicle meet Canada’s much stricter safety standards? Or will you have to fork over even more money for modifications?

Before importing, make sure your vehicle is admissible to Canada and all modifications are acceptable – by calling Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) at 1.888.848.8240.

Once the vehicle is in your possession, you must register it.

Federal inspection is required on vehicles under 15 years old. Once you receive your Form 2 take your forms (Form 1, Form 2, and Title) and your vehicle to an approved inspection facility (e.g. Canadian Tire) within 45 days of import. For insurance your agent will require:

• Your RIV registration form (also known as a Form 1) with a stamp from Customs
• B3 document (your customs broker will send you this by email after you cross the border). A B3 is proof your taxes have been paid
• Original Bill of sale or invoice for your vehicle
• Your original signed certificate of title with a stamp

You will then have to pay your HST or PST, and finally, you will get to drive away with your imported vehicle!Give BorderBuddy a call today if you have any questions, or would like us to connect you with our trusted shipping partners.