Question: Hello Shipper. What is your time frame for this shipment and do you have a broker in place for clearing customs into Canada? (10/26/2009)
Response: I have no time frame at this point beyond 'sometime within the next 2 months'.
I will start looking for a customs broker today.
thank you. (10/27/2009)
Response: I am interested in bidding on this shipment but am wondering if you have spoken with a broker to see if it will clear customs and is admissible in Canada. He have transported one of these in the past, however not cross border. (11/4/2009)
Response: A friend who routinely imports ex-military vehicles into Canada from the 'States assures me that it's admissable. I've asked him to put me in touch with his broker. I'm also arranging a alternate destination in Bellingham, Washington to use if required. (11/4/2009)
Question: Hello Shipper; I'm interested in bidding and I normally handle customs clearances for my clients for no extra charge. But can you tell me where you determined the weight specifications and are the tracks metal cleats or all rubber? Thanks! (11/9/2009)
Response: The vendor supplied the weight specs which I then confimed from the Operators Manual (TM9-772)- 3800lbs dry weight. We should probably add 200lbs for that ghastly wooden top (which is going in the bin the first chance I get!)
The tracks are rubber/metal composite construction and have 2 rubber 'road pads' mounted on each grouser. these should prevent the metal grousers from coming in contact with the pavement.
Vehicle footprint is 1.9 psi.
I now have all the paperwork required for import with the exception of Transport Canada 'Form One'. (11/9/2009)
Response: Hi; Form one is easily completed at the border and Canada Customs will have an ample supply there. I have handled import clearance for boats, cars, vintage cars, trucks, and trailers but I have to confess, this would be the first tracked military vehicle for me! Do you have a $ figure in mind for this shipment? Thanks! (11/9/2009)
Response: Both the vendor and I can give you a 'crash course' (hope not!) in driving the thing.
I have no idea how much this will cost me... (11/9/2009)
Response: Hi Again; I have driven several tracked excavators on my trailer; probably not much different for this unit. Very interesting machine. I'll send my bid as soon as I can. The problem is, I will likely have to bid based on dead-heading to CO from BC. Thanks! (11/9/2009)
Response: I look forward to recieving your bid. Thank you. (11/10/2009)
Response: Hi Again; My bid is $2950 CAD. This is for a hotshot service on a single vehicle trailer and includes customs clearance, providing you reimburse me for the GST. If you prefer, you're welcome to use a broker. Click on my name to check my feedback and feel free to email any questions. Best regards! (11/11/2009)
Response: See my reply to your second question. I'll keep at the Gordian Knot of paperwork! (11/14/2009)
Response: In most cases, you need a title to export a vehicle from the USA. This does not include boats, though. Canada wants to see a title stamped by the US Customs Vehicle Export office before they will complete form 1 and clear a vehicle for entrance. Sound like a catch 22 situation? Let me know when it's settled. Thanks! (11/14/2009)
Response: This is particularly annoying as there is legislation being phased in over the next two years that will require ATV's to display a license plate.
I'll keep you posted, and if it isn't resolved by the time this posting expires I will contact you when it IS sorted out.
Cheers (11/14/2009)
Response: I understand your frustration. You can often get as many interpretations of the customs rules, as parties that you query. Just respond to this thread when you're ready. Thanks! (11/14/2009)
Response: ...and then after you include the factor that these poeple WANTED to work in customs...
Thank you for taking so much time with this. I'm inpressed, and even if this vehicle proves a 'fail' I shall look you up for any future jobs. (11/14/2009)
Response: No Worries; you're welcome. You might want wait before replying to this thread; having this message "open" will make it simpler to email me, if and when this is resolved. Best regards! (11/14/2009)
Response: The Broker would like to know what 'port' (border crossing) you intend to use. This so she can enquire exactly what documents they will accept/require for import.
As Colorado DMV regards this as an ATV they won't issue the Motor Vehicle Title required by Tpt Canada, hence the hoops we're jumping through on this one.
I am quite prepared to wait until you've got another job that takes you to Colorado, even if that takes us into March or April of next year. (11/16/2009)
Response: Hi; Pacific Crossing at Blaine/Surrey is the most likely choice. Keep me posted as to the customs situation. I'm not likely to find a job that takes me precisely to Colorado but even something a little closer would help; we are based on Vancouver Island. Best regards from Dave; Paul's Hauling. (11/18/2009)
Question: Hi Again; My bid is based upon deadheading to CO from BC. I am looking at a potential outbound load that will get me closer to CO and allow me to quote a better price but it will still be north of $2,000. Am I in the ballpark? Thanks! (11/13/2009)
Response: My apologies for not answering more quickly.
That's actually a REALLY good price and one I'm inclined to accept - but now I'm hung up between Transport Canada and the broker I'm consulting (not 'my' broker as such) over getting it into Canada. Tpt Cda requires registration papers but Colorado DMV regards it as an antique ATV and therefore not eligible for their registration. I'll keep plugging away at this 'Catch 22' situation and contact you when the matter is resolved. (BOY I wish I'd known about the hoops I'd have to jump through!) (11/14/2009)