buying boat from USA?

[900cfi]

I am looking at buying a boat from the US and want to bring it home to Canada.Does anyone know what the duty is like on bringing a boat across the border or any other costs there might be.Thanks

 

[rwise]

Re: buying boat from USA?

Don't know bout boats but, I got a great deal on a harley because the owner was moving to Canada and said the import fees were more than bying the bike there.

 

[dolluper]

Re: buying boat from USA?

It depends on the year and where it's manufactured,some are duty free you just pay the great GST and at their book value {private sale} a dealer sale they trust the dealer invoice and charge you that way {exchange to Can dollars then GST.When you register it some provinces will then charge you PST a nice bill sometimes sent in the mail

 

[BF]

Re: buying boat from USA?

ditto... my understanding is that duty may or may not apply (often not), but at least GST for sure. Still... seems that boats are often far less in the states, so I would think you'd still be ahead (if you got a good deal to start with).

FYI, a friend bought 2 large-ish (>20 ft) sailboats off ebay in the states. He paid less than $10K US for each, and around these parts they'd sell for around, or over $20K. His latest one he figures would be close to $30K. Even with making the trip to Wisconsin to pick it up, and paying at the border, he's way ahead.

 

[Bigprairie1]

Re: buying boat from USA?

....its not what you think. Its easier than its ever been.
First...there is no 'duty'. You pay GST and a processing/import fee...probably around $200. The GST will be paid on a Cdn $ converted bill of sale. You will pay your PST when you register the boat locally...like any purchased boat.
You will need good paperwork to cross the border. You need a bill of sale, a title for the boat and a title for the trailer. You may have to contact the manufacturer of the trailer to find if there are any recall notices on the trailer. No biggy.
Google 'RIV, government' this should take you to the Cdn website for importing stuff (vehicles, boats, rv's, etc).
With the current exchange rate....its a good way to go. My next boat will probably be bought U.S side.
Good luck.