Can I Buy an RV in the USA and Bring It to Canada?

With rising prices and limited inventory in Canada, many RV enthusiasts are looking south. Buying an RV in the U.S. and importing it into Canada can be a smart move—but it involves more than just crossing the border with a bill of sale. You’ll need to navigate Transport Canada regulations, customs duties, inspections, and compliance standards.

Whether you’re buying new or used, understanding how to import an RV into Canada can save you thousands and protect your investment.

Why Canadians Buy RVs in the USA

Many Canadians turn to U.S. RV centers and dealers to find better prices, rare models, or customizations not widely available in Canada.

Price Differences and Market Availability

U.S. RV dealers often offer:

Lower prices due to larger inventory and competition
More new and pre-owned RVs to choose from
Strong resale value due to demand for U.S.-market models
Currency exchange advantages for large purchases

Used RVs from drier U.S. states like Arizona or Texas may show less weather-related wear, particularly when compared to units exposed to harsher winters—something many Canadian buyers factor into long-term condition and maintenance planning.

Unique RV Models and Custom Options

Fifth wheels are commonly imported due to competitive pricing and customizable layouts—not to mention a broader range of models unavailable through Canadian dealers. Whether you’re searching for solar upgrades, luxury interiors, or specific configurations, U.S. RV centers often provide more selection and flexibility than what’s typically offered in Canada.

Understanding the cost structure of these units—including transportation, inspection, and compliance upgrades—helps buyers budget accurately and avoid surprises after the sale.

Is It Legal to Import an RV from the USA to Canada?

Buying an RV in the U.S. and importing it back to Canada is legal—but it’s heavily regulated. You must comply with Transport Canada’s rules for importing a vehicle from the United States or Mexico, which include documentation, vehicle eligibility, and modification standards.

RV Import Laws and Regulations

To legally register a vehicle from the United States in Canada, it must:

Be on Transport Canada’s list of admissible vehicles
Meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS)
Have a clean title with no active liens
Pass required inspections and provide a recall clearance letter

You’ll also need to provide documents like:

The bill of sale
Original U.S. title
Export notification (submitted to U.S. Customs at least 72 hours before crossing)

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing an RV to Canada

Importing an RV into Canada involves more than just crossing the border—it requires planning, documentation, and compliance with national safety and registration standards. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Choose an Eligible RV

Check the RIV list of admissible vehicles before you buy. Some non-motorized or commercial campers may not qualify.

Make sure the RV:

Has intact VIN and manufacturer labels
Can be upgraded to Canadian specs (e.g., DRL systems, metric speedometers)
Is not subject to outstanding recalls without proof of recall clearance

Step 2: Finalize Sale and U.S. Export

Once you’ve selected your RV in the U.S.:

Get a detailed bill of sale from the RV dealer If you’re purchasing at auction.
Ensure the clean title is transferred.
Submit the title to U.S. Customs at least 72 hours before export.
Pay any applicable state sales tax at the point of purchase.

Step 3: Cross the Canadian Border

At the Canadian border, declare the RV and:

Present your import form
Pay GST or HST, depending on your province
Cover any duties and taxes (if applicable)
Receive your RIV case number and inspection instructions

RIV fees typically cost around $325 CAD, excluding provincial sales tax (PST), harmonized sales tax (HST), or customs fees.

Step 4: Complete the RIV Inspection

You’ll have 45 days to pass a federal inspection (typically at Canadian Tire locations). This ensures compliance with:

Safety equipment (e.g., DRLs, child restraint anchors)
Metric instrumentation
Labeling and modification requirements

After approval, you can register the RV and insure it for use in any Canadian province.

What Does It Cost to Import an RV to Canada?

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

Category	Cost Estimate
RIV Fee	~$325 CAD
GST/HST	5–15% of purchase price
Air Conditioning Tax	$100 (if applicable)
Transportation (if not driven)	Varies
Inspection/Modification	$200–$1,000+
Customs Brokerage (optional)	$200–$500

Be sure to calculate total landed cost—including exchange rate, fees, and upgrades—before finalizing the deal.

Tips for a Smooth RV Import Experience

Check the RIV list before committing to a model
Avoid sellers with missing documents or unpaid liens
Hire an expert—brokers have helped hundreds of customers import across the border
Drive it home or arrange safe shipping
Don’t forget to confirm insurance coverage for your RV lifestyle in Canada

Common Mistakes When Importing an RV

Even experienced buyers can run into problems when importing an RV from the U.S. into Canada. Understanding the most common mistakes can help you avoid delays, surprise costs, and compliance failures.

1. Forgetting About Compliance

An RV might run and look great, but that doesn’t guarantee it will pass a Canadian inspection. Transport Canada has strict safety requirements that include:

Functional daytime running lights (DRLs)
Proper child restraint anchor points
Metric instrumentation (e.g., speedometer)
Bilingual safety labels
Emissions control systems compliant with Canadian regulations

Failure to meet these requirements could result in failed RIV inspections and expensive retrofits.

2. Not Planning for Wait Times

The process of importing and registering your RV in Canada isn’t instant. From submitting export documents to passing federal inspections, the entire process can take 2 to 6 weeks—sometimes longer if documentation is missing or the RV requires modification.

3. Ignoring Hidden Costs

Many buyers focus only on the sticker price of the RV and forget about the full landed cost. In addition to the RIV fee and sales taxes, you may need to budget for:

Transportation or delivery from the U.S.
Brokerage fees (if using a customs agent)
Provincial PST/HST
Air conditioning surcharges
Required safety modifications

Some buyers also mistakenly assume they won’t have to pay tax at the border. But unless you’re importing under a specific exemption, you’re required to pay tax on the full purchase amount.

Final Thoughts

Importing an RV from the U.S. to Canada can be a smart way to save money and access models you won’t easily find at home. From luxury fifth wheels to custom-built Class Cs, the U.S. market offers more variety and competitive pricing—but only if you navigate the import process carefully.

Every stage matters:

Ensuring your RV is on the Transport Canada admissible list
Submitting export paperwork on time
Passing the RIV inspection
Paying applicable taxes and duties at the border
Meeting modification standards like DRLs and metric instrumentation
Gathering essential documents like the recall clearance letter and clean title

A misstep in any of these areas can delay registration or add unexpected costs, turning a good deal into a logistical headache.

If you’re between steps—waiting on inspection, working through the bonded title process, or simply finalizing paperwork—don’t leave your RV exposed to theft or weather damage. RecNation offers secure, flexible RV storage across North America with indoor and covered options, 24/7 access, and short-term or long-term plans.

Whether you’re a first-time RV buyer or adding to a growing fleet, RecNation helps you protect your investment while you focus on what matters: getting it road-ready for Canadian adventures.

FAQs: Buying and Importing RVs into Canada

Can I finance a U.S. RV as a Canadian?

Most U.S. lenders require a U.S. address and credit history. Canadian buyers usually pay in cash or finance through a Canadian bank.

Can I import a camper from the U.S. into Canada if I’m a U.S. citizen?

Yes, but you must still follow all Canadian import rules and provide documentation like recall clearance, proof of ownership, and pay applicable duties and taxes.

Can I temporarily stay in Canada with an imported RV before it’s registered?

A temporary import permit may allow it, but you can’t insure or use the RV on public roads without RIV clearance.

Does Canada restrict RV age or type?

There’s no age limit, but very old RVs may not meet safety standards. Non-motorized trailers, including fifth wheels, are easier to import but must still comply with labeling and structural regulations.

Can I bring RVs into every Canadian province?

Yes, campers can be imported into every Canadian province, but each has its own tax laws and registration requirements.