Required Vehicle Documents for Canada Entry?

[RandomAbstract]

We are planning a trip from Minnesota to the Pacific Northwest and have reservations on Vancouver Island. However, I might have a problem. We purchased our trailer a few weeks ago and probably won't have the registration by the time we leave.

What documentation do we need to prove to the border folks (both directions) that we own both our trailer and tow vehicle?

One more complication is that our Jeep is registered in my wife's maiden name.

[RandomAbstract]

Thanks everyone for all of your help. I have quite a stack of paperwork now. Hoping for the best.

[daveB110]

The phrase seen twice regarding Passports,about its "mostly to get back into the US" has a hollow ring to it. Of course, for generations passports were really for travel to Europe and other far off world destinations. Now they're rquired more in North America than in Europe, at borders. Canada as well.

Remember that if crossing with Nexus, or such rapid crossing card, every one in your party must have one. Also, in the event of needing to return or travel farther internationally by airplane, the only way get on such an airplane is with a passport.

Vancouver Island is located on the south coast of B.C. If you're heading to Seattle, you're going to the Pacific Northwest.

[enblethen]

Veebyes has the right thinking. Be prepared with the documents.

[Veebyes]

Been back & forth many times. Never been asked for vehicle documentation but always had it available if they did.

Maybe seeing the DW sitting there with the folder of everything & anything is enough to make officers to think all is in order with us. It is.

[explorenorth]

To those saying that vehicle documentation isn't needed, you may be in for a big surprise some day. As others have said, sometimes they do ask. In my case it was a joint Customs/RCMP check crossing the Canadian border to Skagway (the Canadian border where there's usually no stop at all). Registration, insurance, and DL were all checked. For the OP, a bill of sale on the trailer would have worked.

[Luke_Porter]

Canadian Customs is not concerned about insurance.

[Community Alumni]

When towing we have always been asked for both vehicle registrations; this is typical when the camera system cannot pick both up due to total length at the booth.

[Chopperbob]

Just came across on the ferry from Victoria to port Angeles. Had motor home with dog and motorcycle. Asked for passport only over and back.

[sch911]

Have never been asked for a vehicle registration for any vehicle or trailer.
Passports to get back into the US.
Dog immunization records.
Just make sure you are not carrying any banned meats or veggies.
And, no handguns, handgun ammo, or clips. Long guns can be taken across with the correct paperwork.

[enblethen]

People on board need to have passport, more for returning to US.
Animals need to have rabies certificate not just a tag.
Vehicle registration is not asked for.
Canadian insurance card not for entering but in the event you have an incident.

[Tyler0215]

Insurance card for both units. Registration for TV. Bill of sale or license applied for TT.

[windviewer]

i was asked for trailer registration (plates) by us customs crossing from canada to usa in june. didnt have it and was warned by customs person that ny state police may issue ticket if stopped and unable to produce registration information for trailer. she let us continue and luckily no stops enroute by state police. i have copies in the truck now 🙂

[Trackrig]

Technically they want to see something from your insurance company that the vehicle is insured in Canada also. We've had the paperwork each time, but they've never asked for it.

When we came through two weeks ago all they asked about was tobacco and alcohol besides the normal where you been and where are you going to. Noting at all about any foods or fruits.

Bill