Importing a Car from the USA to Canada: Complete Guide

Why Canadians Import from the USA

Importing a vehicle from the United States is the most common cross-border car purchase for Canadians. The reasons are straightforward: the US market is enormous with far more variety, prices can be lower (especially when the Canadian dollar is strong), and certain models, trims, or colours may not be available through Canadian dealers.

The US-Canada border is also the world's longest undefended border, and the two countries share many of the same vehicle safety standards (though with notable differences), making cross-border imports more feasible than importing from most other countries.

Before purchasing any vehicle, always verify its complete history with a VIN check. This is critical for US-to-Canada imports.

Is the Vehicle Admissible?

Not every US vehicle can be imported into Canada. The Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) maintains a list of admissible vehicles. A vehicle is generally admissible if it was originally manufactured to meet either US or Canadian safety standards (which overlap significantly for most vehicles).

Check admissibility first by searching the RIV website with the vehicle's make, model, and year. If the vehicle is not on the admissible list, it cannot be imported (with very limited exceptions for vehicles 15 years or older).

What Canadians Import from the US

Trucks and Large SUVs

Full-size trucks and SUVs are often cheaper in the US, especially in border states. Popular imports include Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, RAM trucks, Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, Ford Expedition, and GMC Yukon. These vehicles may have a significant price difference between the US and Canadian markets.

Performance and Specialty Vehicles

Cars like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Challenger, and various performance trims are often more available and sometimes cheaper in the US.

Models Not Sold in Canada

Occasionally, a specific trim level, engine option, or colour is available in the US but not Canada. Importing is the only option for buyers who want that exact configuration.

Used Luxury Vehicles

Luxury vehicles depreciate heavily in the US due to the sheer market size. A used BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus from the US can offer significant savings.

The Import Process

Step One: Verify Admissibility

Check the RIV website to confirm the vehicle is admissible for import to Canada. This is non-negotiable — inadmissible vehicles will be turned away at the border.

Step Two: Purchase the Vehicle

Buy the vehicle in the US. Ensure you get a clear title (not salvage, rebuilt, or branded), bill of sale with the purchase price, and any available vehicle history documentation.

Step Three: Export from the US

The US seller (or you, if picking up personally) must file an export declaration with US Customs. The vehicle title is typically stamped or annotated to show it has been exported.

Step Four: Cross the Border

At the Canadian border (CBSA — Canada Border Services Agency), you will present the US title, bill of sale, your identification, and payment for applicable duties and taxes. CBSA will assess customs duty (if applicable under CUSMA), GST/HST on the vehicle's value, and any applicable excise taxes.

CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) benefit: Vehicles manufactured in North America (US, Canada, or Mexico) that meet the rules of origin are typically duty-free under CUSMA. Vehicles manufactured outside North America are subject to a standard duty rate.

Step Five: RIV Inspection

After crossing the border, you have a set number of days to take the vehicle to an approved RIV inspection centre. The inspection verifies that the vehicle meets Canadian safety standards. Common requirements include replacing the daytime running light module (if not already equipped), a bilingual speedometer showing km/h (or an overlay), and completion of any outstanding Canadian recalls.

Step Six: Recall Clearance

All outstanding recalls applicable to the Canadian market must be completed. Some US recalls differ from Canadian recalls, and vice versa. A Canadian dealer for the vehicle's brand can check and complete outstanding recalls.

Step Seven: Provincial Registration

After passing the RIV inspection, register the vehicle with your provincial licensing authority. Requirements vary by province but typically include a safety inspection (in most provinces), emissions test (in Ontario and BC), insurance, and title and registration fees.

Costs to Expect

The total cost of importing from the US includes the purchase price in US dollars, exchange rate (CAD to USD), customs duty (if applicable — often zero under CUSMA for North American vehicles), GST/HST on the vehicle value, RIV registration fee, RIV inspection fee, any required modifications (DRL, speedometer), recall completion, provincial safety inspection, provincial registration and licensing, and insurance.

Common Pitfalls

• Salvage or rebuilt titles. Some provinces have strict rules about registering vehicles with branded titles. A US salvage title vehicle may be difficult or impossible to register in certain provinces
• Lemon law buybacks. Vehicles repurchased under US lemon laws may have title branding that causes problems in Canada
• Odometer in miles. US vehicles display mileage in miles. Ensure the conversion to kilometres is documented correctly during registration
• Currency fluctuation. The exchange rate at the time of purchase significantly affects the deal. A strong Canadian dollar makes US imports more attractive
• Different warranty terms. Manufacturer warranties may or may not transfer across the border. Check with the Canadian dealer

For a complete inspection checklist, see our used car buying guide.

Is It Worth It?

The math depends on several factors: the price difference between US and Canadian markets for your target vehicle, the current exchange rate, total import costs (duty, taxes, inspection, modifications), and your time and effort. For large trucks, luxury vehicles, and specialty cars, the savings often justify the process. For common vehicles with small price differences, it may not be worth the hassle.

Where to Find Vehicles

Browse vehicles for sale on Tuble.pro — listings across Canada. Need auto parts? Check our parts section.