Vehicle Importation

[codygrace 14]

Ok, so as some of you have already read, I have a 1999 Pontiac Montana. I plan on driving to the US on my K1 on October 27th. The car is in my dads name and he has no qualms about signing it over to me. We decided not to go to the MTO today to transfer the title to me. When I try to call Service Ontario and get answers, they can't give me a straight answer, so maybe some of you can.

If he signs the ownership, I have to get a sworn affidavit, fill out plate transfer forms, pay a bunch of fees, get a new sticker, get a safety done, e-test done, etc. All a lot of money for something that is going to remain Ontario plated for maybe a month or two. Now, we're entertaining the idea of having him sign the back of the ownership and me doing the transfer once, when I get to Ohio. The BMV site was very clear about most of my questions, I know that I will have to get a quick inspection that will only cost me $3.50 lol. But what I can't figure out, is if I can do the complete title transfer down there. I want to eliminate doing this in Canada and adding extra money and time.

I did end up getting a compliance letter, and I do plan on telling the officers at POE that I intend on importing the vehicle. I know from when I've imported vehicles to Canada from the US that it doesn't have to be in my name. Although, I've only ever imported ATVs, dune buggies and the like.

Help?

[codygrace 14]

Does anybody know if I can do this? I can't see why I wouldn't be able to do the title change in the states.. But then again, I don't know.

[Krikit 1,165]

The problem with your plan is that you can't import the vehicle duty free unless it is in your name.... and you can't register the vehicle if it hasn't cleared Customs. I'd give Customs at your POE a call and run the scenario by them.

[codygrace 14]

Yes, definitely a problem. Called CBP and they said the car will have to be in my name and otherwise I am good to go. I think according to NAFTA, I won't have to pay duty on my car regardless.

Now here's to finding somebody who is going to safety my 13 year old car without charging me an arm and a leg!