When importing a used boat from the USA to Canada, you need to keep in mind that certain aspects of the process are going to be very delicate. If you want to make sure that the overall cooperation goes smoothly, we have a good breakdown of what you should keep in mind.
Importing a Used Boat from USA to Canada
Something very important to keep in mind while you are preparing for the purchase of a used boat in the United States will be to know what you are doing. The best place to start is to hire a broken who understands the process and can better guide you through it. However, if you feel like working on it yourself, all you will need to do is get all of the papers necessary to prepare for the border crossing. This includes licenses, ownership titles, invoices, and such, as well as everything you will need when you are back in Canada, such as taxes owed and licenses.
Confirm the Status of the Ownership
When importing a used boat from the USA to Canada, it will be good to make sure that, regardless of what the seller tells you, there are no liens, loans, or unpaid repairs that are weighing the boat down financially. You don’t want to purchase a boat, after all, that has that sort of baggage attached to it. Instead, request an abstract of title as proof of the vessel’s financial standing so that you don’t inherit any sort of debt you don’t want to have to put up with in the future.
Check the Boat
Before purchasing the boat, it’s a good idea to hire a professional boat surveyor who can at least check the hull and the motor before you make a formal offer so that you don’t have to deal with any mechanical surprises down the road. This will also allow you to take the condition of the boat into consideration at the time of negotiating the price. Keep in mind that if the seller offers a surveyor, it’s better not to go for them. Find your own surveyor to stay on the safe side and don’t sign an agreement of purchase until you are confident about the state of the boat. As with everything, make paper copies of all the transactions involved, regardless of payment method.
Importing a Used Boat From USA to Canada
Once the purchase is completed, arrange for the insurance. In some cases, your tow vehicle’s insurance can be extended to cover a boat or trailer when transporting them back to Canada. At the border, when importing a used boat from the USA to Canada, do not stop at United States Customs. Instead, stop at Canada Customs and declare that you are importing the boat, including the value and selling price of the boat. Always tell the truth when asked questions, but know you don’t have to give any details they’re not asking for.
Register Your New Boat
Once you are back in Canada after importing a used boat from the USA to Canada, it will be time to make sure that it’s properly registered. Here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp can provide you with all the necessary forms for you to carry it out properly. And, should you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling +1 (800) 419-9569 or email us at info@canadianvesselregistry.ca.
