'Bolters helping 'Bolters is a beautiful thing!

      So, you've found that perfect, rust-free restoration candidate from the U.S. and you want to bring it home, or get it shipped to you. The good news -- it's not impossible or even difficult ... provided you do your homework. And Nova Scotia Stovebolter, Randy Jewers, has done your homework for you! Be sure to read this entire Tech Tip. You'll save yourself some headaches.

Crossing the Border

August 2008 Update

By Randy "Mapleleaf" Jewers
and
John Milliman

Importing a project to Canada?

      John Milliman had come across a 1951 Chevrolet 3/4-ton truck that was just the resto ticket for Randy "Mapleleaf" Jewers. Randy lives in Nova Scotia and John was all over the idea for a long road trip, especially into Canada. So Randy did all the research to make sure the boarder crossing would go smoothly.

      Randy called the particular border crossing we planned to use. Apparently the rules and requirements can vary greatly between the different border crossings. It's probably a good idea to call your preferred border crossing ahead of time to get the details on exactly what they are expecting, and what you need to send ahead of time.

      Here is what we needed for the crossing for Randy's truck:

Paperwork you will need

Hauling your own vehicle

      U.S. Customs -- Well before your trip, determine where you'll be crossing the border and find out the mailing address for the U.S. Customs station there. The U.S. Port of Exit must have the original title (plus two copies) plus a bill of sale (handwritten is ok) 72 hours before you cross. You must stop at the U.S. Customs (to get your title back!) to get the stamp that proves the vehicle is authorized for export before you proceed to the Canadian side of the border.

      Canadian Customs -- On the Northern side, you will need to present the original title (with the U.S. export stamp) and the Bill of Sale. At this time, you will pay the 7 percent GST on the value of the vehicle. They will use the Bill of Sale to determine the tax. There will be a form to fill out at Canadian Customs, but it is easy and pretty quick.

Having your vehicle hauled by someone else

      You will not need to be present at the border. Just follow the same steps listed above (or have your hauler do it) with one additional step -- You will need to provide written authorization for your hauler to act as your official agent in transporting and importing your Stovebolt.

Remember

      Hauling a Stovebolt across the border into Canada is not hard, complicated or painful -- as long as you are prepared with the correct paperwork! Be sure to check with U.S. and Canadian Customs for the latest guidelines.

For more info

• U.S. Customs -- Port of Entry/Exit Locations -- Physical locations & Mailing addresses for Customs stations.
• U.S. Customs -- "Exporting a Motor Vehicle"
• U.S. Dept. of State "Guidelines for travelers"
• Canada Border Services Agency
• Canada Border Services Agency Office Locations

For some relaxing reading

      If you want to read the Feature story on John's trip into Canada to deliver Randy's truck ... here it is.

(v. August 2006 / Update August 2008 )

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I'm engaged in that worst kind of automotive substance abuse ~
a growing dependence on Bondo.
Will Corbin, 1941 Chevy Canopy Express