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Importing Car into Canada from US

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Comments

  • sc00psc00p Member Posts: 15
    Are you saying you don't currently have insurance in Ontario? Yikes. If you had Ontario insurance the answer would be that your insurer here would be able to supply you with a 14-day insurance certificate no charge. Without insurance here, I believe you will have major troubles. None of the non-traditional insurers will offer this sort of coverage. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I think your best bet is to buy a car here, and plan on getting the next one from stateside. Good luck!
  • chimo77chimo77 Member Posts: 9
    Just bought a new van in Florida & am in transit back to Ontario. I bought insurance from Progressive ( progressive.com ) - it is Florida law that you must have insuirnce from a company licensed in Florida - Anyways no problem - did it ALL on line ( with help of on-line assist) I had to pay a higher premium as a driver with NO history , becasue they could not confirm my driving record with a Canadian Insurance Co. I had to take a 6 mo policy & pay for 2 months up front - however I will cancel as soon as I get into Ontario & add the van to my Ontario policy . Progrssive will allow you to cancel & will give a prorated refund ( of course don't tell them up front that that is what you are going to do ).
    Good luck
  • azrussazruss Member Posts: 19
    I just read the latest bulliten that was sent to all Toyota dealers and it doesn't look good for Canadian buyers. The heat is on for brokers or independent dealers exporting new vehicles to Canada. It really surprised me that Toyota would join the ranks of Honda and support the Canadian dealers by implementing stricter guidlines for export.
    You have one month left before the rules go into effect, after that you won't find any US Toyota dealer or broker that will sell you a new vehicle. Used will be OK, that's where most brokers will to shift to. They even make a mention that they may not support documents unless it's required by law ( recall letter ? ) to Canadian buyers. We'll have to see.
    The fun is over, Toyota along with BMW and others have shut the door ! Maybe it's time to include them in the lawsuit ?

    AZruss
  • lucasbrownlucasbrown Member Posts: 1
    Hello Everyone,

    With all these mixed answers about warranty and importing has anyone had any success using a import broker. There seems to be a few in the Toronto Area.
    The one I spoke to US Auto Import ( www.usautoimport.ca ) seemed very knowledgeable. Just need some suggestions.

    Smiles

    Lucas
  • doc911doc911 Member Posts: 56
    Talked to two: Ended up doing it myself. Thousands cheaper, no risk. You have all info you need from the various links on here about warranty, admissibility, etc.
  • sc00psc00p Member Posts: 15
    I think pretty much any good indy could do it. I use an indy in Burlington - Dyno-Motion on Queensway, right beside one of the GO parking lots. Honest and reliable.
  • sc00psc00p Member Posts: 15
    This is great info - knowing there is a company like Progressive. They have no problem covering you in Canada?
  • tnaulttnault Member Posts: 1
    Hi there,

    I've never been on a "forum" before but I am interested in receiving the contact information of the person you are dealing with. We are interested in purchasing a Hyundai Santa Fe from the US. Does he only deal with Mercedes. The idea of a middle man is very appealing.

    Thanks so much,

    Tina
  • pathrunnerpathrunner Member Posts: 12
    Ricto,

    I only know of a Washington State dealer who is willing to give rebates if ppl pay cash. By the looks of things, you are on the other side of continent!

    Yup, just the daytime lights.

    Yup no warranty but definitely worth it...Japanese cars are usually not a problem!
  • bav_fan07bav_fan07 Member Posts: 68
    "Yup no warranty but definitely worth it...Japanese cars are usually not a problem! "

    Be very careful with that comment...Japanese cars are NOT what they used to be.

    Check out consumer reports on various models from Honda and Toyota. I personally own a 2003 Honda Accord EX-L. Brand new with leather seats. I'll tell you something - that car drives and handles well - but boy did it have its share of issues. Yeah some would say it was a new generation Accord. But still. Its had more re-calls and warranty claims that would think for a supposedly high quality Japanese car.

    Its also not going to get any better - as Toyota, Nissan, Honda increase production to meet the current demand. Its just a fact of growing big - quality goes down. The company concentrates more on quantity of production rather then quality. Ask The Big Three...they know all about that....
  • uscar4meuscar4me Member Posts: 3
    Hi there,

    I'm wanting to import a 2008 Highlander from the US. If you've had success importing a Toyota, I'd really appreciate it if you could let me know which dealer you bought it from. Ideally, I'd like a dealer in Washington state, Michigan, or New York. I'm currently in Vancouver BC, but I will be moving out to Ontario in a couple of months, so if I can find a dealer around those areas it would be great...otherwise, I guess I'll have to travel farther south.

    Thanks a lot in advance,
    Roy
    (roygbiv401 at yahoo dot ca)
  • rjmbcrjmbc Member Posts: 51
    I can supply contacts for both Honda & Toyota for BC & Alberta. Email me at rmcgill.ccgi@gmail.com and I will forward. I brought in a Highlander Hybrid for myself & Honda Pilot for a friend.
  • sloan55sloan55 Member Posts: 10
    "Talked to two: Ended up doing it myself. Thousands cheaper, no risk. You have all info you need from the various links on here about warranty, admissibility, etc. "

    Not sure who you talked to but the only cost above what I would have had to pay myself was $750 for usautoimport to do it. If you are saving thousands of dollars then you are talking to the wrong importers. Had my vehicle in my driveway and plated in a week and didn't have to do a thing to get there. Just made a phone call. Some people don't have the time to do all the import themselves and I figured that I was saving over $8000 on my Sienna, so for $750 I was still way ahead.
  • kgray2kgray2 Member Posts: 1
    Has anyone heard if it is possible to cross over without the actual title in your possession ? I am looking at purchasing a 2008 used Honda Accord for a dealer in Ohio, they have sent me a Form entitled " Application for Certificate of title to a Motor Vehicle" they had me sign and Fax back to them. They Notarize it and sent it back to me . I in turn faxed to US Customs ( 72 hours before thing) . They are telling me that this will get me across the boarder and they have done it before.
    The Don't intend to give me the actual title. just the Notarize original they sent me.

    I am learly of this and think I will be held up with out an Actual Title ..

    Can anybody comment on experience with this ?

    They tell me that the Real Title will be mailed to me in 2 weeks time..

    I eagerly await your responses.
  • farina19farina19 Member Posts: 1
    I put deposit to 2008 Lexus RX350 today in Boston.
    The dealer did not know much about temp. tag. I looked on DMV -MA and could not find anything. Anyone knows where we can obtain this temp tag.

    I will be picking up car in 10 days and paying the balance then, How can I get title 72 hours before to send to boarder crossing.
  • usacars2canadausacars2canada Member Posts: 14
    Massachusetts does not issue temp permit.

    If you pay the balance when you pick up the vehicle, the dealer will not FedEx you the Certificate of Origin before then. You should request them to see if they can fax the COO 72 hours before border crossing. Some borders (e.g. Lewiston/Queenston) will accept fax. Email us if you have more questions.
  • azrussazruss Member Posts: 19
    I put deposit to 2008 Lexus RX350 today in Boston

    I'd be really surprised if that deal goes down. That dealer will be penalized if he turns in a sale with a Canadian address on it. I think you'll be getting your deposit back.
    As the other guy mentioned, there are no temp tags available in the state of MA.
    Anyone in that state knows that, your dealer is clearly a clueless guy.
    sorry for the bad news.

    azruss
  • genia11genia11 Member Posts: 3
    Can someone recommend me a Toyota dealer in the East? I am looking to purchase a 08 Toyota Camry and I have relatives in the US whose assistance can be obtained if necessary.

    Thank you.

    G.
  • 2008highlander2008highlander Member Posts: 24
    I purchased a 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid in the US near Philadelphia just over a month ago. Post up if you still looking for dealer information, I can definitely email you the details.
  • 2008highlander2008highlander Member Posts: 24
    I know of a Toyota Dealer near Philadelphia that will sell new vehicles to Canadians, if that's close enough then I can certainly email you the info.
  • hybrid10hybrid10 Member Posts: 26
    Yes, please email me the details at robinsj1@telusplanet.net. Most importantly, did the dealer sell direct to you or make you register the vehicle to a local US address first? Thank you.
  • uscar4meuscar4me Member Posts: 3
    Hi there,

    Thanks a lot for the post. I am still looking for dealer info, pls e-mail the details to roygbiv401@yahoo.ca

    ~Roy
  • genia11genia11 Member Posts: 3
    Please do share the dealer information.

    My email address is susanlu11@yahoo.ca.

    Thank you.

    G.
  • knsgeeknsgee Member Posts: 21
    Hi Highlander,
    Please E-mail me the Toyota dealer(s) in PA or anywhere else in NE USA that will sell new vehicles to Canadians. My address kinseygv@aol.com. Were you able to avoid state sales tax? All details of deal would be appreciated.
    Thanks Gary
  • comefindmecomefindme Member Posts: 6
    I thought I read on here that somebody said you had to keep the vehicle in the States for 120 days prior to bringing it across, does anybody know if this is true? I have been unable to confirm this, please let me know my email is comefindme@hotmail.com
  • Kirstie_HKirstie_H Administrator Posts: 11,242
    Folks, we understand that you might want to trade dealership info via e-mail so-as not to make any waves for the dealership, but let's keep the rest of the info on the boards here so that everyone can benefit... the last series of e-mails makes it look like we're just an e-mail addy exchange clearinghouse!

    MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
    Find me at kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
    2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
    Review your vehicle

  • littlespeedylittlespeedy Member Posts: 2
    I have also heard some horror stories about purchasing new Mercedes in the U.S.
    Two questions....can I also have the name of the guy who acts as the middleman in purchasing from the U. S.....and is there as much trouble purchasing a 3 or 4 year old Mercedes??? I would like to fly to Florida and deal with a Mercedes dealer and drive back, with my document of origin and recall letter and do it myself. Is there a site that tells the modifications required for all cars???
  • kan2905kan2905 Member Posts: 2
    I know of a Toyota Dealer near Philadelphia that will sell new vehicles to Canadians, if that's close enough then I can certainly email you the info.

    I would like the info as well.
    Did you had to pay tax ?
    Can I import directly or have to go tru relative ? If relative, how do you do that ?

    Thanks a bunch. Will give you feedback on how it goes.
  • 2008highlander2008highlander Member Posts: 24
    Hi Kristie, Sorry, that is exactly why I didn't want to post the information publicly. I didn't realize there would be so many responses that quickly. I have emailed the info to those that did provide an email address. Please remember to keep the dealer information off all forums because if the dealer gets in trouble by Toyota then everyone looses.

    Don't know if it is possible, but can those that did post up a request for info delete their post so it doesn't look like an e-mail address exchange clearinghouse. I now have a carspace email address 2008highlander@carspace.com so feel free to email me there for details.
  • sandifsandif Member Posts: 3
    Greetings! I wonder if you would be able to point me in the right direction? I would like to import my Mercedes SLK 350 (model 2005) from United Arab Emirates to Canada. Would you know of anyone that would be able to help me?
    Many thanks in advnce.
    Regards,
    Sandi
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    Sandi,

    I can help you with this. Do you own the vehicle now, are you ready to export and do you have a Canadian address? Where was the vehicle made and have you made any alterations to it?

    Take care
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    There are still dealers out there, but are you required to pay the state tax to work with them? Do they drop below MSRP to sell to you?

    If so, this is unneccesary and costly. Please consider this when exploring American purchases folks. There is not one case where it can not be avoided...not one.

    Take care.
  • raash73raash73 Member Posts: 11
    Hi, Does anyone know a good shipping co. to ship my car from Richmond Virginia to Sweetgrass Montana, I can easily pick up the car from there, I'm from Calgary. Thanks
  • sid11sid11 Member Posts: 13
    Hi I am looking for assistance in importing a BMW X5 from UAE.
    Is it possible as BMW has been extremely notorious in creating road blocks for people wanting to import from USA ?
    I am getting a good deal since my brother works for a company which has several franchises of different car makers.
    Thank you.
  • caramelcaramel Member Posts: 43
    There is a twist to having a vehicle shipped to the US side of the border that I haven't resolved. If you can arrange to be there waiting when the truck arrives you are OK. But transporters don't keep to a regular schedule.

    If you can't be there to receive it, check that it has been delivered undamaged and accept the key, there is a bit of risk.

    Be sure to check the reviews for your shipper and don't expect it to be delivered when they promise. You will see from the reviews that many complaints are due to failure to deliver on time.
    http://www.transportreviews.com/
  • sandifsandif Member Posts: 3
    Many thanks Sid! I do own the vehicle now. It was made in Germany and I have not made any alterations to it. We will be repatriating to Canada in August and moving into our home in Kelowna BC, so I will have an address. The specifications are Gulf (as in Persian Gulf)
    Cheers,
    Sandi
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    Sandi,

    If you provide me with the VIN I can tell you if it allowed or not. It really is the same as bringing it from the US or any other country. If it is made for the North American market there will be few concerns, if not it will be far more difficult and in a lot of cases impossible. This is ignoring the 15 year rule.

    Take care
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    Sid,

    Let me know the VIN and I could tell you if this car is allowed in Canada.

    Take care
  • rebecarebeca Member Posts: 6
    Does anyone know of a reputable company that is able to handle the shipping (transport) and paperwork of a vehicle from the U.S. to Edmonton, Canada. I am not really able to go to the border and pick the vehicle up myself as my husband is an expat and I am here with three children, I am 'kinda' tied up! I do not live in Edmonton, but it is the nearest major city, and I am assuming that would be the most cost efficient and the likelyest delivery point (besides Calgary).

    Thanks for your help, I have been lurking the boards for months now and getting closer to closing a deal!

    Becks
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    Becks,

    I can take care of all of that for you, or if it is only shipping I would recommend DAS. ... Dependable Auto Shippers. Not always the cheapest, but reliable with each of my moves so far.

    Good luck and take care
  • sandifsandif Member Posts: 3
    Hi - the VIN # is WDB1714561F056953

    Fingers crossed and many thanks again!
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    Sandif,

    Unfortunately this build is not admissible in Canada. The only way that can be brought into the country is after it is more than 15 years old. This is not made for the North American market and can not be made compliant.

    I am sorry to pass on the bad news. Possibly try to sell it in the UAE and buy when you return to Canada?

    Take care and let me know if you need any other information.
  • dd99dd99 Member Posts: 7
    Hi all,

    Does anyone know of Any Honda dealership selling to Canadians in DEL/PA/OH preferably?
    Or anywhere in the US..I will fly if necessary.

    I am looking for an 2008 Odyssey EX-L with RES new or almost new that is not a rental.

    thanks all for your help. I am from the Toronto area.
  • hacheyimportshacheyimports Member Posts: 69
    Honda will not sell new directly to Canadians, and if you do find one telling you they will be very careful. I get a call almost daily from someone who was mislead by a salesman only to find they either can not do it, need to pay sales tax in the state or MSRP to make it work. Used vehicles are a different matter, but be careful when looking for new.

    Take care
  • atorontoguyatorontoguy Member Posts: 1
    I have a friend who has just bought a 2008 Honda Odyssey EX-L from a Toronto broker at a great price. Give me your email if you need more information.
  • jocojoco Member Posts: 1
    Hi,

    I own a car in Florida that is registered, plated & insured in FL. I keep it there for when I go to my home there. I am Canadian and also have a house in Canada can I drive my car up for a couple of months without having to do any importing? As I will be going back after 3 months.

    Can anybody shed some light?

    Thanks! :)
  • calvinpottlecalvinpottle Member Posts: 1
    I am looking to buy a new Hyundai Sonota Limited. Do anyone know a dealer in the US that will sell to a Canadian? If I can find a selling dealer, I am considering buying a like new (used) car of this type.

    Calvin
  • dd99dd99 Member Posts: 7
    my email is dd19999 at gmail dot com

    more information would be much appreaciated.
    how much discount off of the US MSRP did he get ?

    Thanks
  • jasgjasg Member Posts: 3
    Hi:

    I'm looking to purchase a 2008 Prius. Can anyone tell me of any Toyota dealers they know who are willing to sell to Canadians for direct import (ie. not register the car in the US) --- preferably northeastern region. You can email me directly: j.gandhi@utoronto.ca.

    Thanks.
  • hazmatcdnhazmatcdn Member Posts: 5
    I recently imported a used 07 Camry SE purchased from a certified used Toyota dealer in Utah. The dealer paid to ship to Sweetgrass MT, a very short drive for me to pick up and import after work one day. I was second on the Title and import process was straight forward.

    I am planning to buy a new 08 Mazda CX-9 and have found a dealer in Washington that will sell to me, but I will have to use a friend with a US address for the Bill of Sale and the MCO/MSO. This is not a problem, I have a brother-in-law in Utah and more than one friend in Montana that would be willing.

    I plan to do the following:
    1. I wire the money to the dealer.
    2. Bill of Sale and MCO/MSO is filled out to my brother-in-laws name.
    3. He uses the back of the MCO/MSO to transfer the vehicle into my name and writes me a separate Utah Bill of Sale.
    4. I have the car shipped from Washington to Sweetgrass, MT.
    5. I use the second Bill of Sale and the transferred MCO/MSO to export from the US and import to Canada.

    I have a friend who is a Canada customs officer in Coutts, AB. He advises me that the MCO/MSO if it is signed over to me with an accompanying Bill of Sale is perfectly acceptable. It goes without saying for those that have done research that RIV guidelines include an MCO/MSO as acceptable in lieu of a Title. Also, US Customs worksheet states that MCO/MSO is sufficient.

    However, will this documentation with the MCO/MSO and second Bill of Sale be acceptable to clear exportation by US Customs? Will this second Bill of Sale require notarization? Has anyone done this before? I prefer to not have the vehicle Titled and Registered by my brother-in-law in order to avoid Utah state tax and the Title issuance delay.

    I appreciate the expert advice of those who have gone before.
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