If you are a Canadian importer, or a U.S. exporter looking to receive or ship vehicles to Canada, you might be surprised to find out that this process is not as easy as 1-2-3. In fact, it’s a very long and drawn out, multistage process.

We’ve simplified the intricate process of transporting a vehicle from the U.S. to Canada into five easy steps. While there is a wealth of detailed information available from official sources like Transport Canada, our guide condenses the most crucial safety and security guidelines into a concise format. This approach ensures you have the essential details needed to complete the task quickly and efficiently, without the overwhelming complexity. By following our streamlined process, you’ll be able to navigate the necessary steps with ease, saving time and avoiding potential pitfalls. Whether you’re moving permanently or temporarily importing a vehicle, our guide provides the clarity and simplicity you need to get the job done right.

 

1. Ensure admissibility of vehicle when importing into Canada

Before bringing a car into Canada, it must comply with the guidelines set by the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Failure to meet these guidelines can result in significant costs and disappointment.

Special notes:

  • It’s highly recommended to contact the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) before transporting your vehicle. Transport Canada has contracted RIV to oversee a nationwide program that ensures all imported vehicles comply with Canada’s stringent standards for vehicle import and export safety. By reaching out to RIV, you can get detailed information on the compliance process, ensuring your vehicle meets all necessary regulations before transport. This proactive step can save you time, money, and hassle, making your vehicle importation experience smoother and more efficient. Ensuring your vehicle’s admissibility is crucial to avoid any unforeseen issues at the border, and contacting RIV will provide you with the guidance and assurance needed to meet Canada’s import standards.

2. Canada Car Import Laws: Meet clearance documentation requirements

Proper documentation is a crucial step in the process of importing a vehicle into Canada. Ensuring that your paperwork is in order and complies with both U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Canada Border Services Agency guidelines is essential. Below is a list of required items that must accompany your vehicle and be presented to U.S. Customs at the time of export:

Required Documents:

  • Original Title, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, or Certificate of Origin (front and back): If your vehicle is not required to have one of these documents, you must provide a Certificate of No Title.
  • Bill of Sale: Proof of purchase for the vehicle.
  • Recall Clearance Letter (U.S. only): Confirms that there are no outstanding recalls on the vehicle.
  • NAFTA Documentation (if applicable): Required for commercial U.S. imports.
  • Copies of the Export Certificate and Invoices: Must be provided in English or French if the export location is other than the U.S.

Having all the necessary documentation ready and in compliance with the specified guidelines ensures a smoother and more efficient border crossing process, minimizing delays and potential issues.

 

3. File AES before giving 72-hour export notice

Effective October 2, 2014, the U.S. Census Bureau implemented a rule requiring a 72-hour notice for vehicle exports. To comply, you must file the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Automated Export System (AES) and provide the Duns, EIN, and IRS numbers from the seller along with the appropriate worksheets.

Key Points:

  • The AES filing must be completed by a U.S.-domiciled company. This can be handled by a United States Principal Party in Interest (USPPI), a customs broker, or a freight forwarder.
  • Upon submission and approval of the AES declaration, an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) will be issued.
  • The ITN is necessary to initiate the 72-hour notice with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Ensure that all the required information and documentation are in order to avoid any delay when importing the vehicle to Canada. Proper filing and timely submission are crucial for a smooth export process.

 

4. Submit required documents to CBP 72 hours prior to exporting vehicle to Canada

With your documentation prepared, it’s essential to submit these documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 72 hours before exporting your vehicle to Canada. You should ensure that the U.S. port you are using is set up to accept exported vehicles.

Important Steps:

  • If all instructions are followed and your documentation is complete and accurate, CBP will conduct the necessary checks within 72 hours of receiving your submission.
  • The vehicle, along with the original paperwork, must be presented in person by either the agent or the owner at the time of departure from the U.S.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother export process and avoid potential delays at the border.

 

5. Meet Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Requirements

To comply with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulations, any vehicle being brought into Canada must be free of sand, soil, plant residue, manure, or any other debris that could introduce harmful plant pests to Canada.

  • Cleanliness: Ensure that the vehicle is thoroughly cleaned before export to prevent the introduction of injurious plant pests into Canada.
  • Compliance: Adhering to these cleanliness standards is crucial for successful vehicle importation.

Exporting and importing a vehicle into Canada involves numerous requirements and extensive paperwork. This guide has outlined the top five steps to transport a vehicle from the U.S. to Canada, providing valuable resource links to assist you. By being patient, following strict guidelines, and timely filing the necessary paperwork, you can navigate the vehicle transportation process smoothly and efficiently.

 

FAQs:

What clearance requirements are there when bringing a car into Canada?

  • When bringing a car into Canada, it must meet the guidelines of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Transport Canada, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Additionally, the vehicle must be free of debris such as soil and plant residue to prevent the introduction of harmful pests.

What are the important Canadian car import laws?

  • Important Canadian car import laws include ensuring the vehicle complies with safety standards set by Transport Canada and meets the admissibility requirements. The vehicle must also pass inspections and meet the cleanliness standards set by the CFIA to prevent environmental contamination.

What documentation is required when shipping a car to Canada?

  • The documentation required includes the original title, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, or Certificate of Origin, along with a Bill of Sale and a Recall Clearance Letter (if applicable). Additionally, a completed Automated Export System (AES) filing and an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) must be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 72 hours prior to export.