Factors to consider that might make an RV cross border shopping experience more expensive and troublesome than previously assumed include:
- Numerous brokerage and duty fees associated with importing a vehicle into Canada
- Travel costs (hotel, gas, food) associated with traveling a longer distance to shop and buy the unit
- The cost of the difference of the exchange rate (if the Canadian dollar
is not exactly at par) - Lengthy vehicle importation paperwork required by Canada Border Agency
and Transport Canada - Temporary licensing requirement to bring the vehicle home
- Costs and work of converting an RV to comply with numerous Canadian standards (which differ from U.S. standards) within a limited time period
- Extra service costs for warranty repairs
- The unavailability of financing at some U.S. dealership due to Canadian residency/ citizenship
- Insurance and registration complications
"It's important to be able to maintain a relationship with your local RV dealer so that he or she can offer you advice and assistance about your RV for many years to come," said Fortin LeFaivre. "When buying from a U.S. dealer, it makes it very difficult and costly for the customer to just pop in and ask for help."
Before assuming that cross border will save a Canadian consumer money, Go RVing Canada recommends checking with local Canadian RV dealers to see if a similar price to that of the U.S. dealer can be offered and to examine the advantages of local service.
"Buying from a Canadian RV dealer can often times save you time, hassle, and money," said Fortin LeFaivre.
The Go RVing coalition was formed in 1997, and consists of RV manufacturers, RV dealers and campground operators. The coalition serves as the Canadian RV camping industry ambassador to provide the public and media with information about the benefits of RV travel. The coalition also seeks to enhance consumer information and satisfaction with the RV experience.
