Author Topic: Buying a Car from the USA - How is it done? (esp. a Scion xB)  (Read 1615 times)

Offline ind

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Buying a Car from the USA - How is it done? (esp. a Scion xB)
« on: September 03, 2005, 04:45:40 pm »
Can someone help identify how I would go about purchasing a vehicle in the USA and bringing it to Canada?

Here's the background on my situation:

I once saw a Scion xB, although at the time I didn't know what it was. Went home, did some googling and found out that it wasn't available in Canada. So... if it's not available, how did this person get their hands on one? I did further reading and found out there are people across Canada who drive them. For the most part they have purchased them as Used Vehicles. I've seen a few on AutoTrader, but they cost a fortune. I have called local Toyota dealerships to inquire, and they explained that they could not order me a new one due to whatever agreement they have with Toyota/Scion - but the dealer said they could search for a used one; again, the word used is brought up.

I didn't seem to be getting anywhere fast, so I decided to call a few Scion dealerships in the USA. I spoke with four separate dealerships; two in Washington, and two in Montana. Two of them said it was simply not possible. One of them said they could do it, but I would need an RDR Address/PO Box, and a Drivers License (and a US issued one at that). Basically they gave me a really long _NO_, because I also called the post office that was local to the dealership to find out about renting a PO BOX, and they told me I need to prove that I live in the specific state that I would be renting it from. The last dealership told me they could do it, but I would need an RDR Address (nothing about a US drivers license was discussed). They said if I had a friend or relative that could act as the RDR, then its smooth sailing. I told the dealer I'd call back after more investigation. After an hour or two of rather useless browsing, I decided to call the dealership back and explained it was going to be nearly impossible to rent a PO Box or provide an RDR. The dealer then told me he would look into it and call me back (we'll see).

So - at first glance, it appears difficult but not impossible to buy a new vehicle (specifically the Scion xB) and bring it to Canada. However, it also appears to be a complete pain in the arse. I for one don't have any friends or relatives that could act as the RDR, so I'm hooped in that regard.

My question is:

Can I legally drive/fly down to the US to buy one of these vehicles (new) and drive it back to Canada? I know I would be required to pay GST at the least, and perhaps a brokerage fee.

If you actually read this, thanks for your time - and if you provided any relevant information - I truly appreciate it.

cheers

Offline wing

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Re: Buying a Car from the USA - How is it done? (esp. a Scion xB)
« Reply #1 on: September 03, 2005, 06:40:07 pm »
www.riv.ca  it explains all, you can do it if the car is admissable  And you'll pay PST/GST Duty, some admin fees and registration fees.


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Re: Buying a Car from the USA - How is it done? (esp. a Scion xB)
« Reply #2 on: September 04, 2005, 09:45:38 am »
Looks as if a SCION Xb is admissible
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