Welcome to the Calculator
As always, consider this a work in progress. This is a tool to help you come up with a ballpark budget, not a 'down to the loonie' exact science. Exchange rates flucuate. Fuel costs go up an down (mostly up though). Policies change. Provinces are fickle. etc.
How It Works (The TL;DR Version)
​
Fill in 3 areas and get your answer
-
Auction Price in $CDN: How much are you willing to pay in CDN for the car at auction. FOB/Shipping to BC will calculate automatically.
*NB you should calculate exchange rate here
-
Shipping from Vancouver to ____: can How much are you paying to ship to your neck of Canada?
-
Provincial Sales Tax: Select your province/tax from the drop-down
-
Final Cost: Our best guestimate on your final $ after all the basic necessary steps.
How It Works (The Detailed and Funny Version)
​
At its core, this sheet is as straightforward as a stock AE86. You plug in the price you’re paying for your Japanese import (in Canadian dollars), and it calculates your taxes and duties. That’s it. No frills, no turbo upgrades, just numbers doing math.
The Assumptions (Because Excel Doesn’t Guess):
-
Exchange Rate Reality Check: Currently (as of Jan 2025), $1,000 CAD should land you over 109,000 yen. But banks love their fees, so don’t expect the exact market rate. Adjust accordingly, because this spreadsheet isn’t Venmo-ing you the difference.
-
FOB Costs (Do It Yourself, Folks): The calculator does this for you automatically (Excel wizards, don’t @ me), but it's nice to see the cost breakdown. You’ll can check the chart provided below. Right now, shipping rates are sitting at $2,500 CAD for RORO. But, like gas prices and coffee, they’re bound to go up.
Here are the 'roughly converted' rates from Japan Motor as of Jan 2025
EXAMPLE
You want to buy a car from Japan that costs ¥490,000, which is about $4,900 CAD.-
Look at the chart and find the matching range: → $1 – $5,000 CAD
-
This means:
-
FOB is $1,100
-
Shipping is $2,500
-
-
So the total cost to get the car to Canada is:
$4,900 + $1,100FOB + $2,500SHIP = $8,500 CAD
NB: The calculator does this for you automatically, but it's nice to see the cost breakdown.
-
-
Shipping Destination: Everything arrives at Vancouver. Unless Port of Nova Scotia opens up again, you're stuck with it.
-
Container Shipping Masochists: Thinking of shipping via container? Have fun! Rates are currently around $8,800 CAD from port to port. That’s all I’ve got for you—no judgment here.
-
-
Towing Costs Vary by Region: The towing estimate in this sheet assumes Ontario pricing. Your rates may vary. Maybe your local tow guy charges in Tim Hortons gift cards. Who knows?
Actual Legal Disclaimer.
Effective Date: December 21, 2024
General Information
This spreadsheet is provided for general informational and estimation purposes only. It is designed to offer approximate calculations related to importing vehicles into Canada and should not be relied upon for precise figures or as a substitute for professional advice.
No Professional Advice
The contents of this spreadsheet do not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Users are advised to consult with qualified professionals or official sources to obtain accurate and personalized information before making any decisions based on the estimates provided herein.
Accuracy of Information
While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information as of the effective date, the data may become outdated due to changes in laws, regulations, or market conditions. Users are responsible for verifying the currentness and accuracy of the information before use.
Regulatory Changes
Canadian import regulations, including those enforced by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), are subject to change. Users should consult the CBSA and other relevant authorities to obtain the most current information on import requirements and duties.
Canada Border Services Agency
No Liability
The creator of this spreadsheet assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the information provided. Use of this spreadsheet is at the user's own risk. The creator shall not be liable for any losses or damages resulting from reliance on the information contained herein.
User Responsibility
Users are encouraged to perform their own due diligence and consult official sources or professionals to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations when importing goods into Canada.
Acceptance of Terms
By using this spreadsheet, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this disclaimer. If you do not agree with these terms, you should not use the spreadsheet.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.