2024/2025 Importing to BC

[vancrown]

Hello everyone,

The last time I imported a vehicle from Japan was back in 2015, so it’s been quite a while! I'm curious about how much the process has changed since then.

I noticed that vehicles can no longer be picked up directly from New Westminster and now require towing—are there any other major changes? Also, does the inspection center on Main Street still operate with the “Buy Tires, Pass Inspection�? approach?

Here’s what I understand about the fees involved after the vehicle lands. Please let me know if I’m missing anything or if any of this has changed:

Towing from New Westminster
ICBC Day Permit(s)
Inspection
ICBC Registration Fee + Insurance
Maintenance (of course)

[vancrown]

Anyone? Lol

[jdmvip]

Hey there, welcome to the forums and congrats! 2015 is a long time ago. What car did you bring? My guess by the name is hopefully a Crown of some sort which are getting quite popular these days. Nice choice, if so!

The clearance procedures are still the same on Main Street.

I don't know which inspection service you use but the rules for compliance are still unchanged AFAIK.

You have the right idea but remember the car must be cleared and released before you can arrange towing from the port.

[vancrown]

I know you've brought more cars than majority people, how much extra should I expect to save upon arrival?

[vancrown]

Also do you know if ICBC charges you for the total spent or just the cars value?

[jdmvip]

I should make a thread on this (I think I have at some point though). Just a rough guide from memory is that you need to pay DUTY, GST and PST. Remember the port fees + towing, inspection fees and any costs of repairs of the car. Think the basics like new tires, battery, brake pads/rotors, suspension issues etc...

I believe ICBC just like customs will still charge based on the value of the car. To make sure this happens though, your Exporter needs to properly invoice you which means the car cost is separate from all other fees, otherwise you will pay full tax and duty on the other fees.

Do you have a car coming in? If so please make us a pic thread let us know more about it.

[vancrown]

I do have a car coming on King Vessel... Should be here late next week?
Will update when the car lands

[GRB77]

I have a car coming in a few weeks as well! Any idea on the process to get permits from ICBC to drive it from the port to the inspection facility?

[vancrown]

Hopefully jdmvip can write up a up to date guide lol

AFAIK, you need to wait til you the car clears customs and you bring all paperwork to ICBC. Request for a permit its like around $30-35?

[GRB77]

Got it, where do you plan on taking it for the OOP inspection? Sounds like Strawberry Hill Auto is where ppl go