[chris vickery]

Personally, I have never imported one.
This has been covered here on the MLU before as far as the ins and outs through the process. Remember though that things do change so yesterdays views may be different from todays realities.
If I were going to import as vehicle, considering the costs involved, I think it would be rather cheap insurance to take a quick trip to go see and play touchy feely.
Many airlines are offering $199 fares to European destinations right now. If it cost you even $1000 overall that would be relatively inexpensive considering the risks.
I think right off the top you should consider the converted dollar price and mulitply by two to cover all the extras. There are always hidden costs you weren't counting on and suffice it to say you don't want to be a dollar short when you really need it.
eg. British FV432 at 7000£, at 1.58 translates to over $11,000 CDN
Add international freight costs, loading, unloading, domestic and foreign trucking, sanitizing, export and import documents, customs brokerage fees, storage or impound fees, taxes etc etc. I'd have the better part of $25000 CDN on hand to be sure.
Using an experienced broker would probably be the easiest way with a one stop shopping experience. Have him name the price delivered to your door and thats it. Makes all the nuances his problem instead of yours. Dealing with a reputable company that regularily uses a site such as Milweb may be of help as well as asking for referrals from customers.
I believe that two local fellows have done plenty of this work, Willys Acres as well as Robin Craig here on MLU. Robin may even have some Brit armour kicking abour right here in Canada.