Shipping cars across Canada can be quite challenging. It’s crucial to understand the regulations guiding this process to avoid possible legal consequences down the line. The Canadian government has put in place various regulations to ensure that vehicles are safe, secure, and legally compliant. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about Car shipping regulations in Canada.
1) Transporting within Canada
Vehicles shipped within the country must comply with Canadian vehicle safety standards. The Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act regulates all aspects of transportation, including the design, construction, and operation of vehicles. Transport Canada, the national transportation agency, is in charge of enforcing these guidelines.
If you’re shipping a car within Canada, it must adhere to the regulations of your province or territory. In most cases, you’ll need to obtain a vehicle permit to transport a vehicle within the province. These permits verify that the vehicle is legally registered, insured, and licensed. Before moving your car, also confirm that the car’s insurance policy covers shipment.
2) International transport
If you’re shipping a vehicle outside Canada, there are further requirements to observe. Before exporting a car, you’ll need to present proof of ownership, which could be a certificate of title or bill of sale. Your vehicle must also comply with transport regulations in the destination country.
Our neighbors to the south, the United States, require that all vehicles imported into their country undergo safety and emissions testing. Prior to transportation, ensure that your vehicle complies with US Customs and Border Protection regulations. Similarly, if you’re exporting a car overseas, it must conform to the destination country’s safety and emissions standards.
3) Custom brokers
When shipping a car across Canada or internationally, it’s essential to engage the services of a reputable customs broker. These professionals assist with paperwork processing and ensure that your vehicle meets all required regulations. In Canada, a licensed customs broker assists in clearing your vehicle through customs.
Customs brokers provide numerous benefits to car shippers. They understand Canada’s rules and regulations for car shipping, minimizing delays or legal issues concerning your shipment. They will also assist in gathering the necessary documentation and navigate the logistics of a car export/import process. Using a customs broker can save you time, money, and ultimately ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and legally.
4) Preparing your car for shipment
To ensure that your car arrives safely at its destination, specific steps need to be taken during shipment preparation. The vehicle must be thoroughly cleaned inside and out to make a visual inspection easier while minimizing quarantine risks. The transport company may also request that you remove any belongings from the car before shipment.
Make an inventory of your vehicle and take photos before shipment to document its pre-shipment condition. Ensure that your battery is fully charged and that the tires are adequately inflated. Lastly, disable any alarm or GPS tracking system installed in your vehicle.
Conclusion:
Shipping a car across Canada or outside the country doesn’t have to be an intimidating process. By understanding regulations and ensuring that your vehicle meets all requirements, you can eliminate any legal or safety concerns that might arise. One essential tool in ensuring a seamless and compliant car shipment process is enlisting the services of a licensed customs broker. With the tips mentioned above, you’re now ready to navigate through the regulations for car shipping in Canada.
