With demand for e-bikes and electric mobility devices booming across Canada, many importers are exploring this fast-evolving market. Whether you’re importing to resell or launching your mobility brand, understanding the classification, compliance, and cost structures involved is key.

This article covers what you need to know about importing e-bike kits, electric scooters, and other mobility gear into Canada with a special focus on safety standards and potential tax relief.

1. Know if Your Product Is Regulated

The first step is to determine how your product is classified. Not all e-bikes and electric scooters are classified the same under Canadian regulations.

Regulated vehicles include:

  • E-bikes exceeding 500 watts of motor output
  • Units that can exceed 32 km/h
  • Products that resemble mopeds or electric scooters more than pedal bicycles

Such products fall under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act (MVSA) and must adhere to Transport Canada’s motor vehicle safety requirements.

  • A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • Registration through the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV)
  • Compliance with Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards

Non-regulated vehicles include:

  • E-bikes under 500 watts
  • Max speed of 32 km/h
  • Pedals must be functional

These are treated more like regular consumer goods and can be cleared more easily. For guidance on first-time importing, check out our step-by-step guide to clearing customs for first-time importers.

2. Meet Safety Standards and Labeling Rules

Even non-regulated electric bikes and scooters must comply with Canadian product safety rules. This includes:

  • A bilingual label (English and French) stating the product is a power-assisted bicycle as defined by Transport Canada
  • Battery certification, such as UL 2271 or UL 2849, showing compliance with North American safety standards
  • A manufacturer’s declaration confirming that braking and electrical systems are safe

Inadequate labeling or missing documentation are leading causes of customs delays and rejections at Canadian entry points.

3. Duties, GST/HST, and Provincial Tax Relief

While many electric mobility products qualify for duty-free import, some parts and accessories may not. Taxes also apply:

  • Duties: Often 0% for complete e-bike kits, but accessories or separate batteries may be subject to duties
  • GST (5%): Applies nationwide
  • HST/PST: Varies by province; some provinces, like BC, offer PST exemptions for compliant e-bikes

Understanding what qualifies can save you money. For ways to simplify this, see our tips on how to streamline your import process.

4. Required Documents and Importer Responsibilities

Documentation is everything. You’ll need to provide:

  • A commercial invoice with full product details and declared value
  • Battery certifications or safety test results
  • Proof of product classification (regulated vs. non-regulated)
  • Accurate HS codes for all product types

As an importer, you are fully responsible for accurate declarations. Learn more about your role as an importer of record and working with a customs broker.

5. Don’t Forget Provincial Laws

Even if your product clears federal customs, provinces have their laws regarding the sale and use of electric mobility products. These may include:

  • Helmet requirements
  • Age restrictions
  • Road usage regulations

For national distribution, ensure you meet each province’s specific mobility product laws to maintain compliance post-clearance. Learn about how customs transparency and better data sharing can help you stay compliant nationwide.

6. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Misclassifying a regulated product as non-regulated
  • Using non-certified batteries can cause delays or rejections
  • Overlooking tax exemptions
  • Incomplete or inconsistent documentation

Need help navigating your first few imports? Our guide to digital transformation in customs brokerage explains how modern import tools simplify the process.

Conclusion

The electric mobility sector is expanding quickly, and Canadian consumers are eager for more options. But success starts with preparation. Understand how your product is classified, meet safety and labeling rules, and stay on top of taxes and regulations at both federal and provincial levels.

With the right approach, you can tap into this growing market with fewer delays and stronger margins.

Start Importing E-Bike Kits the Smart Way

Clearit Canada’s fully digital customs brokerage makes it simple to import electric mobility products with accuracy and confidence. From documentation to HS code classification and compliance, we help you clear shipments quickly and without hassle.

Ready to get started? Visit clearit.ca to begin your seamless import journey.