Just imported a 2012 kawasaki concours. I read through the whole 50 pages of this thread. I did everything required. I flew to North Carolina, pick up the bike and rode it back the long way through the Tail of the Dragon. Fantastic!
Couple of points that I learned ( and many have already been made on previous pages )
1. You must fax or email the title( if used ) or certificate of origin ( if new ) to the US customs at border minimum 72 hours before. Make sure that you print a fax confirmation page and present it to the border officer. I had to go through Detroit because I had to come back on Sunday and they are open 24/7. Buffalo border is not. Make sure that you call to confirm the receipt of fax if it is Detroit. Although when I did call, the agent didn't care and just told me to bring the fax confirmation paper. Detroit also didn't care about the bill of sale either or registration papers.
2 When you get to Detroit, the address for the Fort Street Cargo facility takes you to Fort Street if you are using GPS and there is no entrance there. Head towards the Bridge to Canada and there is a sign that takes you to the gates of the Cargo Facility. Must pull upto gate and it will open. When you walk in to the main building, turn off cell, leave all bags outside or you'll piss off the officers and that is not good.
3. Canadian side is friendlier, though do not try to lie about price etc. or they'll question you. For me 5 seperate officers questioned about the bike at different times. 'where did you buy it?' ''how much did you pay?' 'how come so little?' just tell truth and you'll be fine.
4. they offer to fill out the RIV forms there or you can do it at home but there is no fee so I just let them fill out form. Pay the RIV fee and 5% tax. Then you are free to go home.
About temporary plates, I got NC 30 day temp plate for $25 ( dealer did it for me ). Though it is only $10 I heard. But who has time to go and get that when for $15 extra, the dealer does it for you.
States differ in what they do. Eg. I was talking to a dealer in Michigan and he said you have to pay state tax there. Not cool. Also wanted $300 for temp plate because he said you actually have to get a full michigan plate, unless you trailer it back or hire a shipping company. Make sure about state taxes and temp plate if you plan to ride the bike back.
I think that is all. Any questions, PM me and I'd be happy to answer.
Ride safe!
PS> Completed the Federal Inspection at Canadian Tire. Real easy, 5 minute visual inspection, no cost! Registered bike with Ontario MOT, got plates and sticker, paid PST. Now all done. Overall, I saved $5500 compared to buying here. And that includes my flight to, cab fare, gas, lodgings and meals. Recommend highly!!
Sooo the agent was trying to **** with me or something maybe she was jealous? Now i gotta figure out how to get it back on my truck................sighhh
