How Can a Canadian Buy a Boat in the US for ownership and operation purposes here in Canada? Well, here’s everything you need to know about the import process.
How Can a Canadian Buy a Boat in the US
So, can a Canadian buy a boat in the US? Yes! Sure, it can be complicated both logistically and bureaucratically, but it’s far from impossible. In order to be better prepared for this process, here are some directions to keep in mind at the time. For example, it will be entirely up to you to check the vessel for any liens that may be placed on the boat, such as, for example, loans and unpaid repairs. It’s always a good idea to check for these yourself even if the seller claims that the boat is clear of any of these. Also worth noting is that if the boat comes with a trailer, the trailer will need to have a valid VIN, so call the Canadian Registrar of Imported Vehicles to find out if the VIN is valid before purchasing the vessel.
Carrying Out the Import
Once you’ve made the purchase, you will have to arrange for the trailer and boat insurance. There are going to be cases in which your tow vehicle’s insurance can be extended to cover a boat or trailer when taking them both back to Canada, but you will need to look into your specific case to know for sure. Remember not to stop at United States Customs when crossing the border but to stop at Canada Customs. There, declare that you are importing a boat, which means sharing the value and selling price of the vessel. Always tell the truth when answering customs officials’ questions, but also keep in mind that you don’t have to give away details they’re not asking for.
Documenting Your Boat
Every vessel owner in Canada knows just how important it is to keep your documentation in order at the time of operating in Canadian waters. You don’t need to have this before you import the boat, but if you want to avoid having to pay fines or having your vessel forcibly docked, you will have to take care of this before you operate it. Everything you need in order to do so, though, will be right here on the National Vessel Registry Center platform. Here you will find all the documentation forms you need to file, whether it’s for a recreational vessel or a commercial one.
Document Your Imported Vessel
Transport Canada documentation applications can be tedious and inconvenient to go through, but we don’t want that to be the case for you. Our platform is designed to make sure that all these processes are made easier for you, and that you have no trouble filing for any vessel documentation that you need. Not only that, but our team is always ready to provide you with the help that you need should you have any questions or doubts about any application process. Whether you are dealing with registration, licenses, transfers, or just about any other piece of documentation, you will find everything that you need right here at the National Vessel Registry Center.
