Help! old topic, fresh start; Sportsmobiles and Canada

[Knightmax51]

Originally Posted by gnty

The one in whitecourt is my old smb, a great couple bought it, they sure get lots of attention with it.

As mentioned 15 years and older to the build month is a must if you want an existing 4wd or 2wd smb from the u.s. If you have a Canadian van you can have the interior done down there but you cant have the 4wd installed down south and bring it back over. You can buy a ujoint kit and have it shipped up and have it installed in Canada. ive done that twice now.

Hey, I’m looking at buying a 2005 sportsmobile conversion. You’re sure I can import into Canada? My broker is weary but I’ve done lots of research and it seems that I can.

[Knightmax51]

Originally Posted by Pntyrmvr

Just buy one that is more than 15 years old. All those rules go out the window.


"Talk is cheap. Whiskey costs money."

Have you imported one into Canada that’s 15 years or older?

[Pntyrmvr]

I've towed an SMB across the border with a towbar behind another van.

I've also imported numerous vehicles. Some 15 yo and some newer.

Your biggest issue is going to be insurance. Nobody knows what an SMB is so you'll only get liability on the bare van. Convert it to 4x4 and have the accident of a lifetime and they could nail you for undeclared modifications. They insure against risk and you have to be open about increasing their risk through the 4x4 conversion.

Lots of people dismiss these issues. Your call. In BC? Ask ICBC if they'll insure it first for agreed value. Then mention the 4x4 conversion.

Call RIV and ask them. Over 15 yo and they just don't care.

Don't omit any US paperwork. You have to declare the export and give 72 hour notice. Then show up for a paperwork check on the US side and get the US title stamped. Only at certain border crossings and during certain hours.

Google is your friend. I'll charge you $500 to run the show for you.

Go for it. Only way to learn is to risk a burn.