logo

Canada

Import regulations for used cars to Canada

Quick Reference: ・15 years or older ・25 years old RHD exempt in Quebec・Legal nationwide ・Shipping to East and West ports ・Inland transport service・ Great resale value

Newer Imports to the North
The laws for importing left or right hand drive vehicles from countries other than America, allow for any vehicle (excluding large buses) older than 15 years to the month, to be imported into Canada. One exception to the 15 year rule is for “competition vehicles”. Competition Vehicles are designed for use exclusively in closed-course competition. The Quebec Department of Motor Vehicles states that RHD vehicles 25 years or older may be imported and registered in Quebec, bypassing the ban.

RORO shipping is available to Vancouver / New Westminster. Containers are also available to Halifax.

Canada Side Import Costs
The charges that you can expect to pay Canada side when importing a vehicle are as follows:

•  $275+GST Customs clearance / brokerage (If there is more than one vehicle on the same BL the remainder are $50.00 each.
•  $385 Dock charge / unloading of vehicle (could be a bit more if it’s an SUV / truck / larger vehicle)
•  $100~ Tow fee to have vehicle removed from bonded port yard. Importer must sign a contract with the transporter of their choice.
•  $100 Excise tax (if vehicle has air conditioning)
•  $43+GST CFIA soil exam if vehicle gets flagged for exam
•  Duty 0-2.5% on Japanese makes / 2.7%-3.3% on trucks / 6.1% on Non Japanese makes
•  Fill out the Certificate of Origin for reduced duty rates on JDM vehicles
•  GST 5% of the vehicle invoice value

Required Documents for Customs Clearance
After your vehicle is on the boat we will courier you the following documents:

•  Bill of Lading
•  Export Certificate
•  English Translation of Export Certificate
•  Bill of Sale / Commercial Invoice
•  Marine Insurance
•  Certificate of Origin
•  Unless you have experience with import, we recommend using a customs clearance broker to get your vehicle cleared. We have had very good experience with, and recommend the broker below.

Import Broker Information
Thompson Pacific Logistics LTD
Attn: Al Thompson
130-3751 Shell Rd
Richmond BC V6X 2W2
Phone: +1 604 889 4731
Email: ALT@THOMPSONLOGISTICS.COM
Website: http://thompsonlogistics.com

Registering your vehicle in British Columbia
You will first need to get your car inspected at a designated vehicle inspection facility as determined by the British Columbia’s Vehicle Inspections and Standards program.
Here is a map of all the authorized inspection facilities in BC.
We have had good experience and can recommend the shop below.

Vehicle Inspection Facility Information
Overland Garage Ltd
https://overlandgarage.ca
info@overlandgarage.ca
(778) 709-1955
301-5491 Regent St
Burnaby, BC V5C 4H4
ICBC Designated Inspection Facility S20287

We look forward to answering all of your questions and going forward to get you the best value for your money, and a fresh JDM ride. We can also be contacted directly via info@japancardirect.com