How to import a BMW into Canada from the U.S

[propr'one]

No, no no.

If the car is over 15 years old, you still have to e-mail or fax your title to us export. You still have to stop at us export before crossing the border. You still have to go to canadian customs and fill out the RIV form 1. Except on that form, you check off [exempt - Over 15 years old.]

You DO still pay the RIV fee.
You DO still pay taxes.
You DO still pay the A/C tax.

Regarding plates in the USA: You can obtain temp plates from (almost) every state. Temp plates are ONLY valid in the state you are in. (If you buy a car in NC, get temp plates there, and get pulled over in NY, you have invalid plates.)


I wouldn't worry about plates too much. I've been pulled over in some ridiculous situations in the USA without valid plates, never had a problem. DO make sure you have insurance though. Your insurance company can usually suggest what they'd like you to do plate wise. Mine told me to stop in EVERY STATE and get a temp permit. No, thanks

[dcramer]

Really ? what's the point of the 15 year rule then ?

[propr'one]

^^you dont have to pass RIV inspection (no going to canadian tire). You just take your completed form 1 to MTO and get an ownership (After you pay provincial taxes).

In alberta, there's yet ANOTHER inspection (out of province) that needs be be completed when importing an out of country car. We do save the HST though

[HalifaxMMM]

Thanks for all your info on the temporary plates.

I'm trying to edit my main post to incorporate your contributions about the temporary plates... but it's not letting me edit it.. Mods???

[Bliss]

Originally Posted by HalifaxMMM

I'm trying to edit my main post to incorporate your contributions about the temporary plates... but it's not letting me edit it.. Mods???

Great info. A lot has changed over the years!

There's a time limit on editing threads. PM me the changes you want made, and i'll add them for you.

[HalifaxMMM]

Originally Posted by Bliss

Great info. A lot has changed over the years!

There's a time limit on editing threads. PM me the changes you want made, and i'll add them for you.

Done!

Thanks for everyones feedback. Please continue contributing and I will send Bliss the changes as we go.

FYI - For anyone importing V8+ BMWs or Gas Guzzlers ... they can levy a "Green tax" on you.

I'll post some information on that after I research a bit more.

[Ted in T.O.]

How about selling a Canadian car to somebody in the US? The answer to this would help both US and Canadian Maxbimmer members in the future.

[vintagez]

If selling to the USA you normally require a letter from the manufacturer saying your Canadian car complies with EPA and DOT standards except for minor labelling issues. I do not know if BMW will provide this, check with them. Sometimes the label on the drivers door will say US standards, then you are ok, if it says Canadian get the letter.

[dcramer]

Originally Posted by propr'one

^^you dont have to pass RIV inspection (no going to canadian tire). You just take your completed form 1 to MTO and get an ownership (After you pay provincial taxes).

In alberta, there's yet ANOTHER inspection (out of province) that needs be be completed when importing an out of country car. We do save the HST though

What a rip-off. The RIV inspection is a crock of shit anyway. You only need to have DRL's and the rear child seat restraint only has to be in the car, not actually installed. Canadian tire will sell you one on the spot.

[bmwm5lover]

So, are the savings still worth it? IE cars are still that much cheaper? $5K+?

The only reason I've imported cars in the past were for the fact there are more options down there for hard to find vehicles.

[propr'one]

Originally Posted by dcramer

What a rip-off. The RIV inspection is a crock of shit anyway. You only need to have DRL's and the rear child seat restraint only has to be in the car, not actually installed. Canadian tire will sell you one on the spot.

Couldn't agree with you more.

Terry, yes. If you shop around there are deals to be had in the USA, even assuming 20% taxes (HST + Duty) and 500$ worth of bullshit fees (RIV, A/C fee, Crappy tire inspection fee). Remember you'd still pay HST on a used car, so the difference is just duty + fees.

[HalifaxMMM]

Originally Posted by propr'one

Couldn't agree with you more.

Terry, yes. If you shop around there are deals to be had in the USA, even assuming 20% taxes (HST + Duty) and 500$ worth of bullshit fees (RIV, A/C fee, Crappy tire inspection fee). Remember you'd still pay HST on a used car, so the difference is just duty + fees.

IMO the best bang for your buck is a BMW made in North America (ie. X5 and X3) they have no 6.1% duty so you save a bunch.

PS - the Canadian Tire inspection is a joke lol they only checked for the daytime lights... nothing else.

[marek]

A car over 15 years old DOES NOT need anything from the RIV. You don't contact them or they will gladly take your money and provide you with something you don't need.

After having your title stamped by US Customs

1. You just pay your 6.1% duty (if not made in North America), GST, AC Tax to obtain Form 1 from Canada Customs.

2. Get a safety (all) and e-test (if newer than 1987)

3. Register car and pay PST portion of the HST

^^
This applies to any vehicle imported from any country in the world (if it is 15 yrs or older). There is no Crappy Tire inspection or any recall clearance letters or other money grabs that are required.

[wee man]

I'm sorry know it all. Over the last few years, I have brought Three cars into Ont. from the US.of A. I just drove them to Peace Bridge at Fort Erie and declared them.

[damameke]

Originally Posted by wee man

I'm sorry know it all. Over the last few years, I have brought Three cars into Ont. from the US.of A. I just drove them to Peace Bridge at Fort Erie and declared them.

and your point is?

this is not like weekend shopping in Buffalo
that you just bought things and just declare..

I would like you to be more specific...what does your "declare" means?