Importing Heavy Equipment from Canada to the United States

[MikePhua]

Cross-Border Equipment Trade and Its Growing Relevance
The movement of heavy equipment across the Canada–US border has become increasingly common as contractors, dealers, and private owners seek better pricing, unique models, or surplus inventory. With Canada’s vast resource sector and strong equipment turnover, many machines—especially excavators, dozers, loaders, and forestry units—end up available for sale at competitive rates. Importing these units into the United States can be a smart move, but it requires careful attention to customs procedures, EPA compliance, and logistical coordination.
Both countries share one of the most active trade corridors in the world, and the North American equipment market is deeply integrated. However, regulatory differences, documentation requirements, and border inspection protocols still pose challenges for first-time importers.
Key Regulatory Agencies and Compliance Requirements
Importing equipment into the US involves coordination with several federal agencies. The most critical are:

• US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
  
• Department of Transportation (DOT)
  
• US Department of Agriculture (USDA) (for soil contamination concerns)
  

Terminology:

• HS Code: Harmonized System code used to classify goods for customs purposes.
  
• EPA Form 3520-21: Declaration form for nonroad engines entering the US.
  
• Bonded carrier: A transporter authorized to move goods across borders under customs control.
  
• Port of entry: The designated location where customs clearance occurs.
  

Recommendations:

• Verify the equipment’s HS code before shipping
  
• Ensure the engine meets EPA Tier standards or qualifies for exemption
  
• Use a licensed customs broker to handle paperwork and duties
  
• Clean equipment thoroughly to avoid USDA quarantine due to soil or plant residue
  

One contractor in Michigan imported a used CAT 320D from Alberta. The machine was flagged at the border due to excessive mud on the tracks, triggering a USDA inspection and a $600 cleaning fee before release.
EPA and Emissions Compliance for Nonroad Equipment
The EPA regulates emissions for all nonroad diesel engines entering the US. Machines must meet Tier 1–4 standards depending on engine size and year of manufacture. If the equipment does not meet current standards, it may still be eligible for import under specific exemptions.
Exemption categories:

• Equipment manufactured before Tier regulations took effect
  
• Machines used exclusively for off-road agricultural or forestry work
  
• Temporary imports for demonstration or resale
  
• Units being imported for parts or scrap
  

Steps:

• Obtain engine data plate information (model, serial number, year)
  
• Submit EPA Form 3520-21 with exemption code if applicable
  
• Retain documentation for future resale or inspection
  
• Avoid modifying engine or emissions systems before import
  

One dealer in New York imported a Komatsu D65PX from Saskatchewan. Because the engine was pre-Tier 2 and used exclusively for land clearing, it qualified under the forestry exemption and cleared customs without delay.
Customs Duties, Taxes, and Brokerage Fees
Importing equipment from Canada typically incurs duties and fees unless covered by trade agreements. Under USMCA (formerly NAFTA), many machines qualify for duty-free entry if properly documented.
Cost considerations:

• Customs duty (0–5% depending on classification)
  
• Brokerage fees ($300–$800 depending on complexity)
  
• State sales tax (varies by destination)
  
• Transportation and insurance costs
  
• Title and registration fees if applicable
  

Tips:

• Request a Certificate of Origin from the seller to claim USMCA benefits
  
• Use a bonded carrier to avoid delays at the border
  
• Get a written quote from the customs broker before shipping
  
• Budget for unexpected inspection or cleaning charges
  

One fleet in Ohio imported five Volvo A30 articulated trucks from British Columbia. By consolidating the shipment and using a single broker, they saved over $4,000 in fees and cleared customs in under 48 hours.
Transport Logistics and Border Coordination
Moving heavy equipment across the border requires coordination between seller, carrier, broker, and buyer. Timing, documentation, and equipment condition all affect the success of the transfer.
Transport checklist:

• Confirm dimensions and weight for trailer selection
  
• Secure permits for oversize loads if needed
  
• Schedule border crossing during business hours
  
• Provide bill of sale, title, and EPA forms to carrier
  
• Track shipment and confirm delivery timeline
  

Solutions:

• Use a logistics firm experienced in cross-border equipment hauling
  
• Avoid peak border traffic times to reduce inspection delays
  
• Photograph equipment before loading to document condition
  
• Ensure all fluids are drained if required by carrier or port regulations
  

One operator in Vermont used a flatbed carrier to haul a Deere 650H LGP from Quebec. The machine arrived in two days, but a missing EPA form delayed unloading by 24 hours. After faxing the correct paperwork, the release was granted.
Conclusion
Importing heavy equipment from Canada to the United States is a viable strategy for expanding fleets, accessing unique models, or reducing acquisition costs. With proper planning, regulatory awareness, and logistical coordination, the process can be smooth and cost-effective. Whether you're bringing in a single backhoe or a convoy of haul trucks, success lies in the details—and in knowing how to navigate the border with confidence.