For businesses in the machine industry, the border between the U.S. and Canada can look like a simple line on a map. However, when you’re importing machinery to Canada, that line turns into a complex web of logistics, compliance, and documentation.
Whether you represent heavy or light industry, moving assets across the Canadian border is rarely as simple as loading a truck and driving north. From a solitary farm tractor to a fleet of construction equipment that moves earth, every shipment requires a precision strategy.
At Atlantic Project Cargo, we manage the whole lifecycle of your project. Here is how to navigate the maze of import regulations and successfully bring your assets home.
If you want to import commercial goods, preparation is everything. Many companies producing or maintaining machines underestimate the paperwork involved.
Before the wheels turn, you must ensure your business is ready. This includes having a valid Business Number and an import/export account activated with the Canada Revenue Agency. Without this, your goods cannot clear customs.
Furthermore, you need to consider several considerations regarding who manages the entry. While some companies attempt self-clearance, partnering with an expert logistics team proficient in customs ensures that duties, taxes, and restrictions are calculated correctly.
Customs experts act as the bridge between importers and the government, ensuring you don’t face penalties for incorrect tariff classifications.
Importing heavy equipment — such as excavators, cranes, or wind turbines — requires more than a flatbed. It requires a project management mindset.
Many importers forget that to import into Canada, you must first legally export from the U.S. Exporting machinery requires filing with the U.S. Automated Export System at least 72 hours before the cargo reaches the border. We handle this export filing to ensure your shipment isn’t turned away before it even leaves American soil.
The Canada Border Services Agency — often referred to as the Border Services Agency CBSA — is strict about biosecurity. Used vehicles, tractors, and machines must be free of soil and organic matter. If your equipment carries dirt from a foreign origin, it will be rejected. We coordinate steam cleaning services to ensure your machinery passes the mandatory inspection.
To keep the supply chain moving, accurate documentation is vital. The Cargo Control Document tracks the shipment from pickup to the customs clearance point. We ensure these documents, along with the Bill of Sale and Title, are in perfect order so the carrier can cross without delay.
When importing and exporting vehicles, you are dealing with two main bodies: Transport Canada and the Registrar of Imported Vehicles.
Most vehicles and trucks must comply with Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations. If your equipment is less than 15 years old, it usually must enter the RIV program. However, there are exceptions. Non-regulated vehicles (older than 15 years) or specific off-road machinery may be exempt from RIV but still require a Vehicle Import Form 1.
Whether you are moving machines that build roads or vehicles that transport food, we verify admissibility before the project begins.
The rules extend beyond rolling stock. If you are importing items like electric motors, air conditioners, or heating equipment, you may trigger a different set of rules.
Energy efficiency reporting is a critical, overlooked step. Certain energy-using products, from household appliances to large appliances/industrial machinery, must meet specific standards. These items may need to undergo energy efficiency reporting to Natural Resources Canada to ensure they meet the energy performance standards of the country.
Even specialized equipment, such as turbines powered by wind or water, requires careful packaging, handling, and regulatory checks to ensure all permits are in place.
Companies must be aware of the costs. Beyond the standard GST and services fees, trade relations can impact your bottom line.
Importing machinery is a high-stakes environment involving multiple agencies. One missing certificate or one dirty trackpad can halt your operation.
At Atlantic Project Cargo, we act as your account manager for this process. We handle transportation, customs clearance, and delivery. Whether you are moving farm machinery, tools for the light industry, or massive heavy equipment, we ensure your cargo arrives safely.
Ready to start your next project? Stop worrying about documents and border delays. Let us build your logistics solution.
