Most U.S. dealers are watching the current situation between the U.S. and Canada unfold and wondering if it matters to them. I’m here to tell you…it does. Whether you’re already involved in the Canada-to-U.S. vehicle import game or not, this is a critical moment to pay attention. The conditions we’re seeing now have the potential to create long-term opportunity, and this may be the perfect time to educate yourself on how to profit from it.
What Just Happened With Trump and the Tariffs?
President Trump recently imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, including vehicles. This was part of his strategy to bring Canada to the negotiating table and, more broadly, demonstrate dominance on the global stage. After Mexico struck a deal with him to deploy 10,000 troops to the border, they earned themselves a 30-day tariff reprieve. Yesterday, Canada got the same 30-day pause by agreeing to stricter border security measures and closer cooperation on fighting fentanyl smuggling.
Here’s where it gets thick….: Even if the tariffs return after 30 days, U.S.-manufactured vehicles exported to Canada and then re-imported back (identified by VINs starting with 1, 4, or 5) should be exempt. That’s a critical detail for U.S. dealers because the vast majority of “nearly-new” vehicles flowing into the U.S. from Canada are built right here in America.
This Newsletter is sponsored by Can-Am Dealer Services
Why This Tariff Drama Could Be an Opportunity…Not a Problem
While many dealers may be tempted to sit back and see how this plays out, those who understand the dynamics of Canadian imports know there’s opportunity here, with or without tariffs.
Here’s why:
-
Ontario and Quebec Are Under the Most Pressure:
These two provinces are home to the highest concentration of vehicles and population in Canada. They’re also the regions most dependent on the U.S. for exports. When economic uncertainty hits, distressed sellers, fleet liquidations, and dealer trade-ins surge. That’s where the opportunity lies for U.S. dealers willing to capitalize on Canadian supply.U.S. Dollar Strengthening Gives You a Buying Advantage: -
With what’s happening in Trump’s presidency so far…specifically his push for U.S. dominance in global trade…the U.S. dollar is likely to stay strong, if not get stronger. This means your purchasing power in Canada is higher, allowing you to acquire quality inventory at favorable rates compared to domestic options.
-
Can-Am Warranty Removes the Biggest Obstacle:
One of the common objections I hear from U.S. dealers who are skeptical about Canadian vehicles is the concern over voided OEM warranties. This used to be a legitimate problem, especially for brands like Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Volkswagen, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Infiniti, and Lexus. But we solved that.
I’m the founder of Can-Am Warranty, a product designed specifically to replace voided warranties on Canadian imports, putting them on equal footing with their U.S. counterparts. With this coverage, the only real difference between a Canadian import and a domestic vehicle is perception. And let me tell you…perception can be managed, especially when these vehicles are built in the same factories and come with the same build quality.
Why This Is a Prime Educational Moment for Dealers
I’ve been actively engaged in the Canada-to-U.S. vehicle import space for over 34 years. I’ve seen trends come and go, but right now, the stars are aligning. Tariffs or not, the dynamics favor U.S. dealers who are willing to educate themselves and take advantage of the supply opportunities coming out of Canada.
-
Distressed vehicles will become available.
-
U.S.-origin vehicles will flow tariff-free.
-
The strong USD will give you buying power, and Can-Am Warranty will protect you against warranty concerns.
-
All of this adds up to a perfect storm for those willing to step into the game.
Trump’s Mastery and “The Art of the Deal”
If you’re wondering why this is unfolding the way it is, look no further than Trump’s playbook from The Art of the Deal. His tactics rely on maximum pressure, unpredictability, and forcing the other side to make concessions. We saw it with Mexico, and we’re seeing it now with Canada.
For dealers, there’s a lesson here too… Know when to see pressure as opportunity. When others hesitate, that’s the time to act. With conditions like these, hesitation is what will cost you.
Ready to Learn More? Join My Q&A Session for Dealers
I understand that many dealers are still uncertain about importing Canadian vehicles and how to do it profitably. That’s why I’m offering an exclusive Q&A webinar for dealers interested in learning more. I’ll walk you through the basics, explain the Can-Am Warranty advantage, and answer your questions.
If you’d like to join, simply reply with “YES,” and we’ll send you the details and an invite. (Dealers only.)
Now is the time to act…not after the market shifts and prices rise. This is an educational opportunity, and if you take it seriously, it could be a major advantage.
Let’s make it happen.
Bob Manor
Founder of Can-Am Warranty | Leading Expert in Canada-to-U.S. Export Wholesale
Ready to launch your website, newsletter, marketing funnels, and more, but unsure which software to use?
About Bob Manor
Bob Manor is the founder of South Ontario Auto Remarketing, Can-Am Dealer Services, and is Co-Founder of Auto Auction Review. Bob is also the creator of the Freedom Formula. With over 30 years of experience in the car dealership world, Bob specializes in wholesale, dealer services, and personal branding. His mission is to help dealership professionals take control of their careers, build resilient personal brands, and achieve lasting freedom in business and life.
Responses