Moving Automobiles

Moving your automobile to Canada is a tricky proposition and one that should be avoided if at all possible. You will typically get a higher price in the US than you would in Canada for the reasons below and it is a lot easier to move cash!  In addition, you will have to ensure it qualifies for importation under Transport Canada's Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) Program. You will receive Form 1-Vehicle Import Form at the time your vehicle enters Canada and you, along with the Canada Border Services Agency must complete the form accurately in order for your vehicle to be granted entry and registration in Canada. In addition to this form, US Customs requires notification of all vehicles being permanently exported from the US.  Here are some other things to consider when bringing your automobile to Canada.

Kilometers versus Miles - The primary mileage of both the speedometer and odometer are in miles which means you have to pay to have them converted to kilometers or it will be worth much less if you sell the auto in Canada.

Registration - In most provinces, you must register your vehicle within 30 to 60  days of taking up residency in that province as your state plates will be considered expired and you could face fines for driving an unregistered automobile.

Winterize - For those moving from some of the milder states in the US to Canada, you need to ensure your vehicle is winterized.  This includes having a block heater installed, the correct weight oil and the right mix of antifreeze.  Further, you should ensure you get your vehicle undercoated to withstand the salt put on the roads in Canada for traction purposes.

Duty - Depending on the year and type of your automobile, there may be duty, excise tax and GST (Goods and Services Tax) to be paid at the border when you cross.

Investigation - Be prepared for a lengthy stay at the border crossing . . . they do not allow automobiles into Canada easily. Members of our firm have watched as a Border Services agent checked every number inside and outside the car. There were numerous questions on when the car was purchased, where, for how much and so on. Be sure to have adequate documentation, bill of sale, title, etc. to prove evidence of ownership.

Drivers License - As a side note, most provinces require you to obtain a local drivers license within 30 days of taking up residency in Canada. Depending on which province you move to, it may be as easy as showing your State driver's license and being issued a replacement or as extensive as having to completely write the driver's exam and take the road test. Check with your local provincial authorities on which rules apply to you.

Safety Standards - Your vehicle must pass the rigorous safety standards in Canada and it most likely will. These standards are enforced by Transport Canada who will have a say in whether you car meets the standards or not.

Emissions Test - Your US vehicle will most likely pass the emission standards required in Canada but you should check with the authorities in advance to make sure.