Are auto parts from the US duty-free?

Most auto parts from the US are duty-free under USMCA, but you need a Certificate of Origin to prove they qualify. Without it, you'll pay standard rates of 0-6% depending on the part type.

What about parts from China or other countries?

Parts from outside North America pay standard duty rates, typically 0-6% depending on the product type. Some specialty parts may have higher rates. There are no trade agreements that eliminate duties from Asian suppliers.

Do I need any licenses to import auto parts?

No special license is needed for most auto parts. You just need to be registered in CARM (Canada's customs system) and work with a customs broker. Complete vehicles are different and have additional requirements.

How long does customs clearance take?

Most auto parts shipments clear in 1-2 business days. Highway shipments using PARS often clear the same day. First-time imports or incomplete paperwork may take longer.

What taxes do I pay on auto parts?

You'll always pay 5% GST on the value of your imports. Provincial sales tax may apply depending on your province. If parts don't qualify for USMCA duty-free treatment, you'll also pay customs duty.

Learn to manage your CARM accountLearn how to manage your CARM account here

How to Import Automotive Parts into Canada

Complete 2026 Importing GuideUpdated for 2026

A simple guide to importing auto parts into Canada. Learn about duty-free options under USMCA, what paperwork you need, and how to get parts across the border quickly.

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How to import automotive parts into Canada - compliance guide

Auto Parts Importing Made Simple

Good news: importing automotive parts into Canada is one of the easier import categories. Most parts from the US and Mexico come in duty-free under USMCA (the trade agreement that replaced NAFTA).

For parts, you don't need special licenses or permits in most cases. Your main tasks are getting the right tariff code, having proper invoices, and working with a customs broker who knows auto parts.

The process is straightforward: your supplier ships the parts, your broker files the paperwork, and you pay any applicable taxes. Most auto parts shipments clear customs in 1-2 days.

4 Simple Steps to Import Auto Parts

Here's what you need to do to import automotive parts into Canada.

11 day

Confirm Your Parts Qualify for Duty-Free

Parts from the US and Mexico are usually duty-free under USMCA. Ask your supplier for a Certificate of Origin that confirms where the parts were made. Without this certificate, you'll pay standard duty rates (typically 0-6%).

Key Points

Keep certificates on file - CBSA can ask for them up to 6 years later
Get a blanket certificate for regular orders from the same supplier

21 day

Get the Right Product Codes

Every product needs a tariff code (HS code) that determines duty rates and any special requirements. Your customs broker can help classify your parts correctly. Auto parts typically fall under Chapter 87 of the tariff schedule.

Key Points

OEM parts and aftermarket parts may have different codes
Misclassification can lead to penalties, so get it right

31 day

Prepare Your Documents

You'll need a commercial invoice with detailed part descriptions (not just 'auto parts'), part numbers, quantities, and prices. Add the bill of lading from your shipper and a packing list. That's the basic package for most parts shipments.

Key Points

Detailed descriptions speed up clearance
Include country of origin on your invoice

41-2 days

Clear Customs

Your customs broker files your import declaration with CBSA. For truck shipments from the US, ensure your carrier files their manifest at least 1 hour before arriving at the border. Most parts clear the same day or next day.

Key Points

PARS (Pre-Arrival Review System) gets highway shipments cleared faster
Build in extra time for your first few shipments

CBSA:CBSA Import Guide

Common Mistakes to Avoid

No Certificate of Origin

Risk: You pay full duty (up to 6%) instead of getting duty-free treatment under USMCA.

Solution: Always request a Certificate of Origin from US/Mexico suppliers. Most will provide it at no extra cost.

Vague product descriptions

Risk: Shipments get flagged for examination, causing delays. 'Auto parts' isn't specific enough.

Solution: Use detailed descriptions: 'brake pads for Toyota Camry' instead of 'auto parts'. Include part numbers.

Not setting up CARM

Risk: You can't import commercially without CARM registration. Shipments get stuck at the border.

Solution: Register for CARM before your first import. It takes about a week, so don't wait until you have a shipment in transit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about importing automotive parts into Canada

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