Anyone knows if it's relatively easy to purchase US boat (..

External Since: Oct 15, 2004 Posts: 2

My engine seized and it looks like I must either purchase a new or old
engine or simply replace the boat altogether (could probably only
afford a used one).

I am looking on the Net and find that there is much more options,
choices (and better prices!) in Washington State. I live in Canada
but near the Canada-US border so it would be easy to purchase
something in WA. But I don't know if there are legal, custom or other
issues if I purchase an American boat or engine (the engine I need to
replace is a OMC Cobra 4cyl 2.3L).

Andre

External Since: Mar 27, 2005 Posts: 278

Ockmel wrote:
> My engine seized and it looks like I must either purchase a new or old
> engine or simply replace the boat altogether (could probably only
> afford a used one).
>
> I am looking on the Net and find that there is much more options,
> choices (and better prices!) in Washington State. I live in Canada
> but near the Canada-US border so it would be easy to purchase
> something in WA. But I don't know if there are legal, custom or other
> issues if I purchase an American boat or engine (the engine I need to
> replace is a OMC Cobra 4cyl 2.3L).
>
> Andre

Under the NAFTA treaty, there is no duty on a new or used boat taken
across the US/Canadian border- provided the boat was originally built
in the US or Canada. Example: Glasply, Sea Ray, Tollycraft, Bayliner,
Canoe Cove, etc......no duty. Grand Banks, Cheoy Lee, Princess,
etc...pay a duty.

Not sure if that applies to engines, or just to boats. Engines may fall
into the "personal expenditure" category that allows a few hundred
dollars duty free purchase after a couple of days in the neighboring
country, but can't say for sure.

You may have to pay GST and/or something else after getting your
purchase to Canada, my comment only addresses duty on a new or used US
or Canadian built boat.