Making cross-border vehicle importing simple.
We help you seamlessly import your vehicle into Canada: personal vehicles, commercial vehicles and motorized equipment.
Importing a vehicle into Canada
Importing a car, truck or any other vehicle into Canada can be a simple process, but it does involve many steps. At Trans-Ontario Express we can help you every step of the way, from exporting the vehicle from the USA to importing it into Canada and getting all the paperwork you need for your licence plate.
Our team of experts will guide you through every step needed for a hassle-free import, while adhering to all specific regulations on both sides of the border. We’ll have your vehicle in Canada, ready to be plated and go on the road.
Key authorities involved
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): manages border enforcement and customs services.
- Transport Canada: ensures vehicles meet safety standards.
- Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV): oversees the compliance of imported vehicles.
- Carrier: transports the vehicle or equipment to Canada.
- Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC): regulates environmental standards, including emissions.
- U.S. Census Bureau: handles export documentation for U.S. exports.
- Customs broker: facilitates the import process on behalf of the importer.
Essential regulations
- Admissibility: confirm that the vehicle or equipment is eligible for import into Canada.
- Emissions compliance: ensure the vehicle meets Canadian emissions standards.
- Form 1 submission: submit Form 1 to CBSA; if using a customs broker, this is included in the electronic data interchange (EDI) entry.
- U.S. export notification: provide a notice of export to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 72 hours before arriving at the border.
- Automated Export System (AES) declaration: for U.S. exports, submit an AES declaration to the U.S. Census Bureau.
- Government of Canada guidelines: review the official guide on importing motor vehicles into Canada.
Fundamental import considerations
- Importer of record: as the importer, you’re responsible for the accuracy of the declaration and payment of applicable duties and taxes.
- Duties and taxes: payable upon importation; rates depend on the vehicle’s classification, value and origin.
- Documentation: present the necessary documents to the border services officer at the point of entry.
- Customs review: imports may be subject to review, inspection or audit, potentially incurring additional fees.
- Record keeping: maintain import records for six years, as they may be audited by customs during this period.
Not sure about the service your business needs?
Our team of experts will provide professional consulting for your company.
Receive free consulting from sales experts in logistics, transportation, freight and shipping. Schedule a free call with our professionals at the date and time that works best for you.
Get efficient solutions for your logistics here. Let’s get in touch.
We are the ally that will bring you transportation operations to suit your needs. Let us know how we can help.
Contact us
- Customer service416-298-1060
- Address2215 Markham Road
Scarborough, ON M1B 2W3 - Book a meetingPrefer to talk? Pick a time that works for you and we will call you.
Book a meeting
Please note that we are a B2B company and do not ship personal effects from consumer to consumer.