There are two ways to do it…
If you’re like a lot of our friends North of the border, you’ve wondered if it’s possible to import a Shelby Cobra, Superformance MK III, GT40, or Corvette Grand Sport into Canada.
The short answer is, Yes!
In 1996, Carroll Shelby began production of the CSX4000 “Continuation Series” Shelby Cobra. These are identical to those built in the 1960’s, but with better materials, components, fit and finish, and are available with either an aluminum or fiberglass body.
Effective this year, those Shelby Cobras first registered in 2008, or later, are now 15 years old and legal to import into Canada from the US, with proper documentation.
Going the other direction, from Canada to the US, the date of first registration must be 25 years or more for US Customs clearance.
Proof of the date of first registration must be in the form of a government issued document. A factory issued Manufacturers Certificate of Origin (“MCO”) or Manufacturers Statement of Origin (“MSO”) is not acceptable as proof of the date of first registration. These documents only prove when the chassis was manufactured, not when it was first registered.
The other option to bring a Cobra or other replica into Canada is to order a starter kit from our sister company, Nevada Classics. They will ship a Transport Canada approved starter kit to any province via truck freight, crated and ready to complete.
They will also provide Canadian sources for components needed to complete the build, as required by Canadian law. If you don’t want to do it yourself, they will also direct you to professionals in Canada who can provide as much help as you need, and even do the job for you.
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) became law on July 1, 2020. The USMCA, which replaced the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), is similar to its predecessor and minimizes the tariff barrier to entry. Only GST and PST (if applicable) are paid when the starter kit crosses the border.
Unlike “production” cars, kit cars are unique, and require special consideration when exporting one to another country. There are a number of details that need to be addressed to ensure a smooth importation.
Nevada Classics has been exporting Shelby and Superformance products to Canada for more than 17 years. Our affiliate in Canada has extensive experience importing our products and with our assistance, makes the process seamless from start to finish.
With representation on both sides of the border, we are equipped to handle all of the paperwork, details, and logistics involved to ensure your new pride and joy is efficiently, and legally, imported into Canada.
Services include arranging transportation, insuring your vehicle or starter kit while in transit, organizing customs clearance, and approval from Transport Canada.
For more information on the process, go to this page or call toll free 888-SHELBYGT (888-743-5294) ext 1. The direct number is 702-785-0090.
