Canada tariff news for antique cars / motorcycles updated 9/7/2025 – please pass along.

On September 1, 2025, Canada officially removed the retaliatory surtax on antique and vintage vehicles over 25 years old that are imported from the United States.

This update provides significant relief for classic car enthusiasts after a period of confusion and high fees earlier in the year. 

Timeline of 2025 tariff changes

  • March to August 2025: Canada implemented a 25% retaliatory surtax on certain U.S. goods, including some vehicles. This was in response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian products. Despite the standard 15-year exemption under Transport Canada’s rules, many importers of U.S.-made vintage cars over 25 years old were mistakenly charged the 25% surtax at the border.
  • September 1, 2025: The Canadian government amended its tariff orders, specifically repealing the surtax for a number of items, including vintage vehicles. This change is retroactive, allowing importers who paid the surtax between March and August to apply for a refund. 

How the rules work now

  • Surtax-free for vintage cars: Vehicles originating from the U.S. that are 25 years old or older can now be imported without the 25% retaliatory surtax. This makes the process much more affordable for classic car buyers.
  • Potential refunds: Importers who paid the surtax on eligible vintage vehicles imported between March and August 2025 can submit a correction to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to claim a refund.
  • Standard duty still applies: While the surtax is gone, the standard 2.5% duty rate for vehicles from outside North America still applies to non-exempt cars.
  • 15-year exemption: The standard Transport Canada rule remains in effect, which states that vehicles 15 years old or older are exempt from the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. The recent surtax issue specifically impacted cars older than 25 years, and this has now been corrected. 

What antique car collectors should do

  • Apply for a refund if applicable: If you imported and paid the 25% surtax during the affected period, gather your documentation and contact the CBSA to begin the refund process.
  • Confirm vehicle age: Before importing, verify the vehicle’s age by its manufacturer’s label to ensure it is over 25 years old.
  • Consult a broker: For complex situations, it can be beneficial to work with a customs broker who is aware of the recent rule changes to ensure a smooth import process.

Good luck,
NAACC