Selling a US car in Canada is a detailed process centered on ensuring the vehicle meets Canadian standards and clearing it through the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program. The core steps involve verifying admissibility, modifying the vehicle to comply with Transport Canada and Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS), and navigating customs. The most critical initial step is to confirm your vehicle is on the List of Admissible Vehicles from the RIV website; many US models are eligible, but some are not.
The process involves several key stages. First, you'll need to provide proof of ownership, such as the title, and ensure there are no liens on the vehicle. You must then notify US Customs 72 hours before export. Upon entering Canada, you'll present the vehicle to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to pay duties and taxes, including the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), which is typically 5% or 13% respectively, depending on the province. After this, the RIV process begins, which includes an inspection by a certified mechanic to confirm required modifications, like daytime running lights and metric odometer labeling, are completed.
| Step | Key Action | Typical Cost (USD) | Lead Time | Authority/Form |
|---|
| 1. Eligibility Check | Verify vehicle on RIV Admissible List | $0 | 15 minutes | RIV Website |
| 2. US Export | File Electronic Export Information (EEI) with US Customs | Varies (often ~$100) | 72 hours prior | AESDirect System |
| 3. Recall Clearance | Obtain letter from manufacturer confirming no open recalls | $0 - $100 | 1-2 weeks | Manufacturer Dealer |
| 4. Canadian Import | Pay GST/HST at border (e.g., on $20k car: 5% = $1,000) | 5% - 15% of vehicle value | At crossing | CBSA |
| 5. RIV Inspection | Complete federal inspection for safety compliance | ~$200 - $400 | Within 45 days of entry | Certified Canadian Garage |
| 6. Provincial Registration | Pass provincial inspection, pay taxes, get plates/insurance | Varies by province | After RIV clearance | Provincial Ministry (e.g., MTO) |
The entire process can take several weeks and cost hundreds to over a thousand dollars beyond the initial sale price. It's crucial to budget for unexpected compliance issues and work with buyers who understand the importation timeline. Ultimately, a successful sale hinges on transparency about these steps and providing all necessary documentation to the Canadian buyer.
