Tips for cross-border buyers at Ritchie Bros. auctions

March 27, 2025

Take advantage of a strong U.S. currency discount when buying in Canada

With the huge selection of quality equipment selling in Canada and the advantage of a strong U.S. dollar, it’s a great time for U.S. businesses to look north of the border to buy equipment. The U.S. dollar is worth approx. 30% more in Canada!*

Before you start bidding on auctions items in Canada, here are a few tips to help you buy and export your equipment purchase:

#1 Find out what you can (and can’t) export

Navigating the ins and outs of EPA (and DOT) regulations can be challenging. Ritchie Bros. has partnered with PCB to make it easy. PCB can handle all Canadian border crossings (air, rail, truck, and boat) and provides 24-hour service.

Got questions about what you can or can’t import, or paperwork you need? Contact PCB:

  • By phone – toll free: 1.888.538.1566
  • Email: rba@pcb.ca

#2 Stay updated on tariffs

It’s important to be up-to-date on the changing trade relationships between the U.S. and other countries, including Canada. PCB is constantly updating its Trade Actions news stream to help you stay informed of any potentially impactful tariffs.

See latest updates on tariffs

#3 Search potentially non-tariffed inventory in Canada

Ritchie Bros. crews are on the ground at each auction site inspecting inventory and identifying which assets should be able to cross the border without being impacted by tariffs. Use Ritchie Bros.’ convenient search feature to locate which items could be available for importation tariff-free.

#4 Discover easy cross-border financing

Most U.S. lenders make you pay for cross-border purchases out of your own pocket; when the equipment is on U.S. soil you get a refund. We make it much easier.

We can pre-approve your financing before the auction, and don’t need to know when and where you plan to buy. And our application process is fast – you can often be approved the same day!

Apply for financing now.

#5 Lock in your preferred exchange rate, pay in your home currency

Paying for your auction purchases in your home currency has never been easier. Lock in a preferred rate and see the total in your home currency in just a few easy steps with Ritchie Bros. Financial Services Currency Exchange, then pay your invoice via wire transfer. Ritchie Bros. has partnered with a leading financial institution to provide this free service to our cross-border and international buyers.

Learn more: rbauction.com/CurrencyExchange

#6 Get fast, competitive shipping quotes

We partnered with VeriTread so you get the best rates on cross-border shipping. Get a free estimate before you bid, or get competitive quotes after you buy.

You can even use your financing to pay for cross-border shipping.

#8 Get your equipment border-ready!

Soil-contaminated equipment may not be allowed entry into the U.S. Ritchie Bros. provides professional cleaning and refurbishing services to ensure your purchase has no soil contamination.

You can even finance cleaning with a working capital loan.

Get more for your money up north: See equipment for sale in Canada

Sources:
*Currency conversion from http://www.xe.com

See also
Walters Group Trusts Ritchie Bros. with 2025 Fleet Renewal
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