Canadian Volvo Import
How to Import a Car From the United States Into Canada
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Importing a car from the United States into Canada doesn't have to be a difficult process, though there are important steps you will need to follow. Whether you are importing a car for your own personal use or you are bringing it into the country to sell it, the procedure is the same. Read on to learn how to import a car from the United States into Canada.
Step One
Check Transport Canada's List of Vehicles Admissible from the United States to see if your car can be imported, and if it must be modified, to meet Canadian requirements. The list of admissible vehicles covers passenger cars, trucks, trailers, motorcycles and snowmobiles that are less than 15 years old, as well as off-road vehicles manufactured after May 1, 1988 and buses manufactured after January 1, 1971.
Step Two
Obtain a recall clearance letter from the authorized dealer or original equipment manufacturer of your car. The recall clearance letter is absolutely necessary to pass the federal inspection. You can call the manufacturer and provide your vehicle identification number to inquire about any pending recalls.
Step Three
Obtain any modification information from the manufacturer or authorized dealer, including costs and parts availability for any required modifications. Any modification costs are up to the car owner.
Step Four
Determine any additional costs, including duty and taxes, by contacting Canada Customs and Revenue Agency. The agency can reached at (506) 636-5064 from outside Canada and (800) 461-9999 in Canada.
Step Five
Make sure that you have all of the paperwork that you need for your car. You will need title documents, registration papers, sales receipts, a statement of compliance and the recall clearance letter.
Step Six
Find out about safety inspections or emissions test that need to be done. There may also be additional provincial or territorial requirements. You should arrange for insurance for your car before importing it to make the process easier.