Buyers from British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and farther away purchase vehicles in Alberta every week. Selection is wide and Alberta charges no provincial sales tax at the point of sale. The process is manageable if you plan it before you travel.
What tax will I pay?
An Alberta dealership charges 5% GST on the sale. Alberta adds no provincial sales tax. Your home province will usually collect its own provincial tax when you register the vehicle there, so buying in Alberta does not remove that tax. The rules and rates differ by province. Check your province's motor vehicle or finance ministry website before you commit, so the full cost is clear.
Will it need an inspection at home?
Most provinces require a safety inspection before they register a vehicle brought in from another province. Find out what your province inspects, and ask me about anything on that list before you buy. If the vehicle needs tires or brakes to pass, it is better to know while you can still negotiate.
Do the homework by text first
- Ask for the CARFAX Canada report and the Mechanical Fitness Assessment.
- Ask for a walk-around video, including the underbody and a cold start.
- Get the full price in writing, with GST shown.
- If you are financing, confirm your lender will fund an out-of-province purchase.
Getting it home
You have two choices. Fly or drive to Edmonton and drive the vehicle home, or have it shipped by a transport company. If you drive it, arrange insurance before you leave the lot and ask your insurer and your home province what permit or temporary registration covers the trip.
Buying from the United States
Prices on this site are in Canadian dollars. Bringing a Canadian-market vehicle into the United States has federal emissions, safety and customs requirements. Confirm that the specific vehicle is eligible before you pay for anything. I can send you the details you need for that check.
Questions about a specific vehicle?
Text me at 780-953-7887 with the stock number, or request a quote. I answer in English or Mandarin.
General information for buyers, not legal or tax advice. Rules and tax rates change, so confirm the details with AMVIC, an Alberta registry agent or your home province before you buy.