Bringing a US model to Canada

[TwoThirtyDirty]

Anything to make me think twice about doing this? My fiance and I are looking hard at a new base model FJ with auto and I just noticed that even with the current exchange I'll save over $4K doing business south of the border (black steelies are cool too). I realize I'll pay taxes when it comes across but I'm not sure if there are other hoops to jump through (ie. swapping out the speedo/odometer for a metric version, etc.) Anyone that has the wisdom, I would greatly appreciate some input. Just for the record with the currency conversion we're at $27,300 for the US model vs. about $31,600 for the same model (but with alloy wheels) in Canada. Thanks in advance everyone.

 

[brownbear]

check out driving television online. The global show in BC, they have a four part thing on buying in the us and saving money.

also in the diesel section at the top of the page is an importing faq. BUT a Toyota dealer will not sell to you in the USA. Not going to happen. So you have to buy used and bring it up.

check out the RIV website in Canada too.

 

[TwoThirtyDirty]

Thanks man, The RIV site was exactly what I was looking for. Didn't realize the US dealers wouldn't take my money though. I guess it makes sense from a corporate territory protection angle.

Thanks again

 

[Runner Ryan]

Unless something has changed in the last year or so...
Any vehicle imported into Canada must be 15 years old, or older to legally register and insure it here.

 

[Icefire]

Well actually no, most vehicles can be imported providing it meets canadian specs and you pay the gst and duty at the border.

The 15 year rule applies to all vehicles, ie vehicles not originally sold in Canada or US, or North america. thats why alot of people are bringing in RHD landcruisers, skylines, and mercedes models that werent sold here.

www.riv.ca

If your vehicle needs to be changed (updated) then unfortuanly Can Tire, is the licensed mechanic, and I dont let them touch my car, unless they are fixing a tire.

Older than 15 years with a standard VIN and your golden. If you have a Euro vin, then you need a letter from the manufacturer.

 

[Jim S.]

A good friend just purchased a new prius in Surprise, Az and imported to Edmonton, Ab with no issues. Saved 5K. Do your home work & enjoy.

 

[arbetrader]

6.1% duty on any vehicle where the 1st digit of the vin# does not = 1-5. $100 a/c tax on any vehicle with a/c. GST paid at border, plus $220 approx paid for RIV fees if vehicle is newer than 15 years. No more overweight excise tax anymore.

Customs officials are usually rude, and don't help you out with paperwork so a good broker or somebody who knows what they are doing often helps. Also, speaking from experience, when you use a broker you can go through the commercial lanes, saving you the rubber glove treatment re-entering canada, and of course other hassles that could arise.

 

[nickw]

Unless something has changed in the last year or so...
Any vehicle imported into Canada must be 15 years old, or older to legally register and insure it here.

Only if the vehicle does not meat Canadian requirements from the factory does the 15 year rule apply. As long as it meets Canadian spec with no mods it can be imported.

Canada and the US have and agreement where anything sold domsectically in either conutry and be imported at any time to the other.

Cheers,
N.