Exporting a used car from the USA to Canada is a detailed process that involves ensuring your vehicle is admissible, completing U.S. export paperwork, and clearing Canadian customs. The key is verifying that the car meets Canada's Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program requirements. Most vehicles over 15 years old are exempt from these standards.
The first step is confirming your car's admissibility. Check the RIV website to see if your specific make, model, and year is eligible. Generally, cars must be modified to meet Canadian safety and emissions standards, which can involve daytime running lights, metric speedometer overlays, and child seat anchor modifications. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential for this check. You must also ensure there are no outstanding recalls on the vehicle from the manufacturer.
You'll need to handle U.S. export procedures. For vehicles valued over $2,500, you must file an Electronic Export Information (EEI) through the Automated Export System (AES). This is typically done by a licensed customs broker. You'll also need the car's title, a bill of sale, and an original letter from the lien holder if there's an outstanding loan.
Upon arrival in Canada, you'll present the paperwork to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), pay the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) on the vehicle's value, and submit the Form 1 to the RIV. After entry, the RIV will issue a Form 2, which you take to a Canadian inspection center to verify the required modifications have been made. Only after passing this inspection can you register and license the car in your province.
The timeline and cost can vary significantly. Here is a summary of key considerations:
| Factor | Details | Cost/Time Estimate |
|---|
| RIV Admissibility Check | Verify model eligibility & required mods | Free (Online) |
| U.S. Customs Export Filing | EEI filing for cars over $2,500 | $100 - $300 (Broker Fee) |
| Canadian Import Tax | GST/HST on vehicle's declared value | 5% - 15% depending on province |
| RIV Fee | Program participation fee | ~$329 CAD (As of 2023) |
| Inspection & Modifications | Daytime running lights, etc. | $200 - $1,000+ CAD |
| Provincial Safety Inspection | Required for registration (varies by province) | $100 - $150 CAD |
| Total Timeline | From start to full registration | 2 - 6 weeks |
