Hey Adrian,
Carfax is still a good idea IMHO unless you know someone who has an account who can do it for you, even better.
It's information may be limited but when it does come up with an accident report or something that the current owner claims not to know about, it is certainly better than not having that info.
When I was truck shopping recently, it saved me a few trips, both short and lengthy, to look at trucks that I might otherwise have been wasting my time with.
Also, along with the duty at the border and the tax when you register it, as per above, there is also a 90ish dollar fee to have an inspection done that certifies it has all it's correct paperwork and VIN plating intact. The importer is supposed to have that done before he registers it to keep or sell.
Just certain car dealerships will be licensed to do these inspections. Also Canadian Tire could do it, at least in some areas. There may be others.
