[randyrap]

Last month I imported a privately purchased 83 911 SC from the US. This was the first time I had ever imported a car and it was also my first Porsche. Here are a few facts. US customs requires a copy of the car title. I had the owner fax it in and confirmed that all was well after 72 hours. Even if the deal falls through, this step is a must. Lewiston Bridge in Ontario is the only bridge that handles car transfers and it MUST be between 9 and 4 on weekdays. Next, I went with a trailer in tow and did an inspection on the car and finalized the deal with cash in hand. With the car strapped down I drove back to the border with my ''special'' receipt and the original copy of the title. At the US border I gave the title to the Customs officer and he quickly did a check on the computer and gave the title a stamp and sent me on my way. On the Canadian side, they filled out a form and made me to pay the 6.1 % duty (because the car was built in Germany) and I also had to pay the PST. The officer almost forgot about the 6.1% however a keen partner pointed it out to him. Since the car is over 20 years, I had no problems with recall notices, or speedo issues. Once in Canada the car needs to be certified and registered at the local MTO within 60 days (I think). Until then you can drive it around with no plates and the stamped US title along with the Canadain Customs form acts as your ownership.

This was one of the easiest experiences I've ever had at the border and I would not hesitate to do it again.

Hope this helps ........................................... Randy