Introduction
Importing a Japanese used car into Canada offers incredible value and a diverse selection of high-quality vehicles. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, regulations, and financial considerations for Canadian buyers.
Eligibility and Regulations
Vehicle Age Restrictions
- Canada allows the importation of used vehicles that are 15 years or older from the date of manufacture.
- In Quebec, right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles that are 25 years old or older are exempt from certain restrictions, making them fully legal for use.
Shipping Options
- Vehicles can be shipped via Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) services to ports in Vancouver and New Westminster.
- Container shipping is available to Halifax, accommodating buyers across Canada.
Costs on the Canadian Side
Import-Related Fees
- Customs clearance/brokerage: Starts at $300.00+GST. Additional vehicles on the same Bill of Lading (BL) cost $50.00 each.
- Dock charges/unloading fees: Approximately $225, with potential increases for larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks.
- Tow fee from bonded port yard: Around $100. Importers must arrange transportation with a preferred provider.
- Excise tax for air-conditioned vehicles: $100.
- CFIA soil examination (if required): $43 plus GST.
Duty and Taxes
- Duty rates vary: 0-2.5% for Japanese makes, 2.7%-3.3% for trucks, and 6.1% for non-Japanese makes.
- Utilize the Japan free trade agreement form to potentially reduce duty rates on Japanese vehicles.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST) is 5% on the total import value.
- Disbursement fee of 3.0% applies if payment is made via credit card (direct bank deposits are recommended to avoid this fee).
Essential Documentation for Customs Clearance
- Bill of Lading
- Export Certificate and its English translation
- Bill of Sale / Commercial Invoice
- Marine Insurance
- It’s advisable to employ a customs clearance broker to facilitate the process, ensuring smooth entry and compliance with Canadian laws.
Recommended Japanese Used Car Exporters For reliable sourcing and purchasing, consider the following Japanese exporters:
- SBT Co. Ltd.
- Be Forward
- EVERY Co., Ltd.
- Qualitex Trading
- Autorec Enterprise Ltd.
These companies are known for their extensive inventories, robust inspection processes, and excellent customer support, making them top choices for importing to Canada.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a car enthusiast seeking a unique Japanese classic or simply looking for a cost-effective vehicle option, importing a used car from Japan to Canada is an excellent choice. By understanding the regulatory landscape, preparing the necessary documents, and working with reputable exporters, you can enjoy a straightforward and successful import process.
If you want to know more details about Japanese used vehicle exporting, please refer to Wikipedia.