Exporting a Car from Canada to the USA

Exporting a car from Canada to the USA involves a well-defined process to ensure compliance with both Canadian and American regulations. Whether you’re relocating or selling a vehicle, understanding the steps, paperwork, and checks required is crucial for a smooth transition.

Exporting a Car from Canada – The Process:

1. Confirm Eligibility

Verify that your vehicle is eligible for import into the USA. Some older vehicles or those not meeting safety and emission standards may require modifications. Ensure your vehicle complies with U.S. safety and emission standards.

Refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)You can check more about the emission standards required at the US Environmental Protection Agency website.

2. Obtain a Recall Clearance Letter

Contact the vehicle manufacturer to obtain a recall clearance letter, confirming that there are no outstanding recalls on the vehicle. You can also gain this information by doing a free VIN check using the tool below.

3. Contact the Border Crossing Authority

Reach out to the U.S. border crossing authority (Customs and Border Protection – CBP) to understand specific requirements at the chosen port of entry.

4. Vehicle Export Declaration

Complete a Vehicle Export Declaration form and submit the necessary documentation, including the Bill of Sale, certificate of title, and any required permits. with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to declare the export of the vehicle.

5. Pay Applicable Fees

Pay any applicable export fees and taxes. Be aware of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the federal and provincial sales taxes.

6. Cross the Border

Present all required documents at the border crossing, including the Vehicle Export Declaration, at the U.S. port of entry. The CBP will inspect the vehicle and verify its compliance with U.S. standards.

7. Pay U.S. Customs Duties

Pay any applicable U.S. Customs duties and fees. The exact amount depends on the vehicle’s value and classification. Refer to U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for the applicable rates.

8. State-Level Requirements

Depending on the state you reside in in the USA, there maybe state specific requirements, duties and fees that you need to pay so be sure to check this with your local authority.

Paperwork Required:

1. Vehicle Title: Provide the vehicle title as proof of ownership. Ensure it is free of liens, and if applicable, the lienholder has provided consent for export.

2. Bill of Sale: A Bill of Sale is essential for documenting the transaction between the buyer and the seller. This document should include details such as the purchase price and vehicle identification information.

3. Vehicle Export Declaration: This form is submitted to CBSA and includes details about the vehicle, its value, and the destination country.

4. Vehicle History Report/VIN Check: The report will show any lien or recall details on the vehicle that you need to be aware of. You can get this report by entering the VIN below. The VIN number is located on the vehicles door plate.

5. Importer’s Declaration for Entry (Form 3299): The importer must complete this form, declaring the value of the imported vehicle.

6. U.S. Customs Entry Summary (Form CBP 3461): Filed by the customs broker, this form provides details about the imported vehicle.

7. EPA Form 3520-1: Required for importing vehicles into the USA, this form declares compliance with EPA emission standards.

8. DOT Form HS-7: This form, issued by the NHTSA, declares compliance with U.S. vehicle safety standards.

Important Checks:

1. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Inspection

Ensure the VIN on the vehicle matches the VIN on all paperwork, including the title and export declaration. Also this report will provide you with useful information about the vehicle like if its been in any accidents. You can get a VIN report below by entering the vehicles VIN:

2. Emission Standards

Confirm that the vehicle complies with U.S. emission standards. Non-compliance may require modifications before entry.

3. Safety Standards

Verify that the vehicle meets U.S. safety standards. Adjustments may be necessary for vehicles not originally manufactured for the U.S. market.

4. Title Clearance

Ensure the vehicle title is clear of any liens or loans, and that the necessary consent is obtained if there is a lienholder.

5. State-Specific Requirements

Be aware of any additional requirements imposed by the specific state where the vehicle will be registered.

Summary

In summary, exporting a car from Canada to the USA involves some planning, adherence to regulations, and accurate paperwork. The process requires collaboration with border authorities on both sides and an understanding of state-level requirements in the USA.

By completing the necessary checks and paperwork described in this post, you can navigate the complexities of cross-border vehicle exportation successfully.

Please note that the process and paperwork indicated in this article is subject to change so always refer to the appropriate agencies website for the most up to date information.