By
Copy URL to Clipboard
Importing cars to USA borders is a process that you can’t just put on cruise control. It’s even more difficult to get the key to that car and drive it across the USA border to importing victory lane.
The importing process comes wrought with emission testing, importing regulations and manufacturer requirements. Take a drive with us as we teach you how to maneuver through the traffic when importing vehicles manufactured in other countries to US borders.
Cars are the single most popular purchase for American consumers. They crave cars so much that they demand brands from all over the world. That’s where you come in. Importing cars from Europe, Germany, Japan and more is a big part of that American consumer car demand process. Learn how to navigate US car import law below in the following four ways.
The easiest way to achieve customs clearance approval is to find a Licensed Customs Broker to assist you. When importing cars to USA borders, you need to comply with U.S. importing laws and regulations from various agencies.
Your car’s parts also need to comply with American standards. For instance, a car that has a speedometer that reads kilometers will have to convert to one that reads miles instead. Other issues include headlight modifications, reflectors, engine and emission modifications and more.
When importing a car to the US, if it’s very similar to other models that are already manufactured in America, you can take advantage of the Substantially Similar Clause. This clause is primarily used when importing cars from Canada. That’s because American and Canadian cars typically have interchangeable parts. If customs agents agree that your import is similar to American models, it receives a green light for importing.
Did you know that Bill Gates, Ralph Lauren and other American businessmen banded together more than 25 years ago to get a law passed that allowed them to drive European car imports legally in the United States? The Show and Display rule allows certain cars exemptions from U.S. government regulations, as long as the cars are brought over for “show and display.”
Passed in 1999, the law exempts unique vehicles from regulations, including stringent safety regulations. This means these cars don’t need parts replaced. The cars do need to pass Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules.
There’s a catch though. This rule only applies to the most unique and expensive imported vehicles in the world. The cars can’t be offered for sale in the U.S., cannot be replica cars and can no longer be in production. A sampling of cars that pass the test for this rule includes:
Need an easier way to import a car to the US? The day a car reaches its 25th birthday, it’s legally allowed to pass customs clearance in the United States with no restrictions. Happy Birthday older cars! Your present is no inspections whatsoever!
There are only two hurdles to the 25 year rule. The state where your import car is going may require modifications for safety items to receive a tag and registration. And in the state of California, older cars mandate stricter emission requirements for all cars manufactured after 1975.
There are actually benefits for cars being 21 and 25 years of age.
A 21-year-old car does not have EPA requirements for import inspection. A 25-year-old car can legally enter the U.S. without complying with Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
So which cars have their 25-year-old birthday in 2018 that allows them to enter the United States legally without customs inspections? Here’s our top car picks that might peak your importer interests this year:
Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec: This car right here. Americans have been salivating to get these cars here easily for decades. While it’s been eligible for importing to the USA for a couple years, this is the first eligible year for the V-Spec model, which offers a limited-slip differential for better handling and beefier brakes.
BMW M3 (E36): This is the BMW M3 Americans always wished they could have. It has a 3.0 liter 286-horsepower inline-six engine that will make your heart sing.
McLaren F1: Thanks to this birthday, some of the first McLaren F1 models can hit US ports of entry this year with no troubles.
Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8: Enjoy the bigger and bidder brother of the Porsche 911 Carrera, which boasts a 300-horsepower engine. Good luck with your efforts though because only 55 of them were built.
Fiat Coupe: Drive one of the cars in real life that you previously only drove in the video game Gran Turismo. This is a head turner because it’s such a unique coupe.
Aston Martin V8 Vantage: Welcome to the land of two European superchargers on a 5.3-liter V8 that produces 550 horsepower.
Mazda Lantis: We have to put some regularity on this 2018 importing hot list. The Mazda Lantis stands out for its four door compact capability with a V6 engine that packs a punch. It will be fun to shock the V-8 engines off the line at the stop lights with this little speedster.
Lotus Esprit Sport 300: Remember that fancy sports car Richard Gere couldn’t figure out how to drive in the beginning of the “Pretty Woman” movie. Drive the cooler one from Europe if you’re lucky enough to land one of only 64 that were built!
Audi S2 Avant: A 2.2-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine with an all-wheel drive system. You’re welcome.
Subaru Legacy GT: For Dads seeking performance and practability to haul kids and junk, the Subaru Legacy GT should be on their importing cars to USA shortlist.
Why are Some Cars Illegal within US Borders?
Enjoy the new cars available for import but remember there are always some cars that aren’t allowed within U.S. borders yet. Some overseas cars are simply off limits to American consumers. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) makes the ultimate decision on what overseas cars can drive on American soil. The following cars are still now allowed to enter a US port of entry:
Do you ever ask yourself this question? “How do I find out the value of my car?” Whether it’s a personal daily driver or for importing, the value of the car is important when doing your importing cars to USA homework.
Try using research tools like Kelley Blue Book Private Party Value to research car prices to come up with a number that works for you. However this price is only accurate between private buyers and sellers. DO your homework with overseas buyers and wholesale distributors to make sure you are not overpaying for your overseas vehicle imports.
Emissions standards are the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules and requirements that make sure exhaust pipe pollutants released into the air from cars are meeting acceptable levels. Review the EPA emission standards for all vehicles to make sure your import vehicles pass their air quality tests during customs clearance.
Recently, the EPA announced its revoking previous presidential administration emission standards that required vehicles in the United States to meet emission standards that forced cars and light trucks to average more than 5 miles per gallon by 2025.
California, meanwhile, has complete control over its own emission standards for new and used cars. Make sure your imported cars can achieve success under California’s separate emission requirement.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) are required for many vehicle imports. The United States mandates that many design, crash and durability requirements be in place to enforce the safety of car drivers.
The following safety standards will be inspected closely for your car imports:
Did you know your car imports must undergo federal emission testing that’s done through laboratory testing? Emissions are always tested while a car is driven in a testing garage using a chassis dynamometer.
Vehicles are tested through different driving cycles representing different driving patterns that include a 10.5-mile drive.
U.S. car imports that are excluded from EPA emissions include:
The EPA Form 3520-1 is a declaration form that’s required for the importation of cars and engines. The pollution standards of these cars are subject to federal air pollution requirements.
This form is turned into the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for all vehicles, kit cars, light duty vehicles, engines and more being imported into the U.S.
Remember that this form, though, is not needed for cars and trucks that are imported by their original manufacturer and those that are new and have received an EPA certificate of conformity and EPA emission control label.
What are your duty rates? The Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) is used to clarify your proper duty rates, or taxes, you will pay when you import a car. Tariffs are based on the value of the vehicle,
The HTSUS uses a hierarchical number system of 17,000 individual code numbers to classify imports and impose the correct tax. It provides the most up to date tariff rates and categories for all imports.
Classifying your goods is very important so you receive the proper tariff tax. This also allows you to speed through the custom clearance process faster and make more money in the long run.
What is a gas guzzler tax? It’s a tax based on a combined city/highway fuel economy in miles per gallon rating that is handed out by the EPA for tax purposes. This EPA rating, though, can differ from other fuel-economy statistics the manufacturer releases.
Gas-guzzler fuel ratings may need assigned to car imports that don’t have one.. Lastly, a tax is not needed for import cars with a combined fuel-economy rating that hits at least 22.5 miles per gallon.
Japanese cars are very popular in America. They are known by the majority of American consumers as well built and dependable vehicles. They also have high resale values.
How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to USA? That all depends on the supplier you choose and the manufacturing cost. Do your homework to make sure you are selecting the best Japanese vehicle that can make you the most profit.
Below, we provide some quick tips and strategies to follow when importing cars from Japan.
For even more information on this topic, check out our article Importing Cars From Japan to the U.S. In the article, we go step-by-step through the entire process to ensure that your import is safe and successful.
Search for your Japanese cars by forging relationships with Japanese manufacturers, auction houses and dealers. Do some research online but make a trip to Japan to meet people face to face and see the cars to make sure you’re comfortable before starting the complex importing process.
When you are doing your research, it’s important to remember that your car imports must be in compliance with U.S. laws and regulations. Make sure emission and safety standards are compatible or can easily be modified.
Do you want to know if you’ll have an easier time when going through customs with your car imports? It’s as simple as finding a sticker. Check your car closely for Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or Department of Transportation (DOT) stickers on the frame of the vehicles. DOT stickers are typically found in the doorjamb of the driver’s door and EPA stickers can be found near the engine compartment.
You will need to get a letter from the certified manufacturer of the vehicle if your car is missing either of these stickers unless the car is 25 years old or more.
Find an independent commercial importer (ICI) that can assist you with modifying your Japanese imports if you know the car won’t pass U.S. emissions and safety tests. Remember that it can be costly to make certain a vehicle meets modification requests to pass through customs.
You must always fill out the proper import paperwork to pass the importing cars from Japan green light. Make sure you have the following forms filled out in English:
It’s always a good idea to have your car cleaned before a customs inspection to remove foreign dirt or anything else from the undercarriage, especially foreign soil. Don’t give customs officials any reason to black flag your car on inspection day.
Remember that you have to pick a car carrier shipment company to physically ship your car imports from Japan to the United States. The quicker you can outline your arrival date plan to your vehicle carrier, the quicker you can get your import paperwork process moving. It should take between 10-17 days to move your car from Japan to a US port of entry.
Congratulations! If you’re Japanese import car is at your planned port of entry, you have won the customs clearance battle. Don’t celebrate just yet though! You need to arrive on time or have a Licensed Customs Broker on the scene to pick up the car.
Remember that you have to pay a duty fee, which is based on that actual price you paid for your Japanese car imports. It amounts to 2.5% for cars and a much heftier 24% on trucks. Returning US residents, though, can use an exemption toward this fee if they have a permanent residence in the United States.
Don’t forget Uncle Sam. Remember that your imported Japanese cars are subject to the gas-guzzler tax. If your Japanese import is rated with a less than 22.5 miles per gallon fuel economy rating, you’ll be paying up.
You have finally reached the finish line! Now it’s time to register your Japanese import car and receive license plates at the state of your choosing. Take all of your import documents with you in case the state you need a license plate in has some questions. Remember that all states have different requirements so be patient and press on to get that license plate and drive off into the sunset!
Are you looking to import engines from Japan? Japanese engines are very popular in America. Many consumers are looking for specific engines they feel can overhaul their car and give it more horsepower and dependability. Follow our rules for importing Japanese engines below.
Do you need a Honda engine or a Toyota engine? Is the engine you are looking for compatible in other types of cars? The more versatile the engine is, the more demand there will be for it in the United States. Talk to mechanics and look at automobile message boards to import the engines that Americans crave.
Just like a car, make sure the Japanese engine you’re importing is compatible with American regulations and will pass EPA and DOT inspections.
Is your engine not compatible with American engines overseas? You can still import it if you fill out Form 3520-21.
How does importing a car from Canada to USA borders work? Since we are neighboring countries, you might think it’s a simple process. But it’s not. When you are importing Canadian vehicles, the same customs process ensues even for neighboring countries.
Make sure your vehicle identification number (VIN) shows on your Canadian bill of sale document. You also need to acquire the manufacturer’s statement, a vehicle title and the certificate of origin.
Always obtain a temporary tag and insurance from the province in Canada where you are purchasing your Canadian import.
The good news? Most cars made in Canada you are importing to the U.S. are not subject to duties. However, foreign cars still pay the same duties: 2.5 percent for automobiles and 25% for trucks.
How much does it cost to import a car from Europe to the United States? That all hinges on the size of the vehicle you are shipping overseas. Shipping costs alone start at $700 and can cost upwards of $2,000 for larger SUVs and trucks.
Think Mercedes Benz, BMW and Maybach for starters. These luxury car brands ensure that importing a car from Germany to USA borders will stay popular for decades to come. Germany is one of the most bustling car manufacturer countries in the world.
You should a hire a customs broker with knowledge of importing cars to USA borders from Germany. They make sure your paperwork is very specific to avoid customs clearance delays that cost you money.
For even more information on this topic, check out our article Importing Cars From Germany.
Before you start importing cars from all over the world, make sure you have an insurance policy in place other than normal car insurance. If a tow strap breaks and a car falls on the boat or if the boat sinks, you need a policy in place that covers each and every car import. Find an insurance policy with far reaching coverage from a company that specializes in shipping companies.
Remember that you also need a separate insurance policy once your car hits the road at the US port of entry.
You need to file commercial invoices in order to achieve customs clearance success. Double check your paperwork to make sure it’s correct. Make sure the forms are filled out in English too. Have the following import documents on hand with you at US ports of entry during the customs process:
Why do they call it a packing list when it’s really a checklist? We don’t know. But you have to have the packing list to clear customs. Freight forwarders and shippers use the packing list to double check that your imports are ready to go. Customs officials also count on this document to check and double check your car imports.
Commercial invoices, used for foreign trade transactions, include the following pertinent information for you:
Arrival notices alert you that your goods are ready and waiting for you at your US port of entry. Automobile imports are release from the port once you schedule a time to pick up your imports after you receive your arrival notice.
Bill of ladings (BOLs) are distributed by carriers to shipper imports. BOLs are basically insurance for damaged, lost or delayed goods. This important form contains a tracking number to watch your auto imports as they go through the customs process.
All of these documents work together to help importers with the information they need to receive customs clearance process success.
The three-letter import trading terms used both domestically and abroad for importing are known as Incoterms. These three letters showcase the transaction import details for both buyers and sellers. Licensed brokers use the proper Incoterms for your goods to get your imports cleared through customs quickly.
Did you know there are multiple U.S. ports of entry on both coasts that you can utilize to import your cars? When you import cars from USA, find out which east coast port of entry or west coast port of entry is most convenient for you and your customers.
When you sign a power of attorney, Licensed Customs Brokers can:
When you are importing cars to USA, follow the importing timeline and don’t miss any deadlines. If you are importing cars from manufacturers in other countries, following the importing rules other countries impose is crucial. Find the proper import duty, or tax, for your automobile imports, which require a customs bond.
Importing an electric vehicle or related components? Check out our article on EV imports.
When you work with a Licensed Customs Broker, you can clear customs during the automobile importing process. When you are figuring out how to import a car or how to import food into the U.S., Customs Brokers take care of all your import requirements and alleviate the stress. Use a Customs Broker when:
There are two customs bond types available for your use. Find the customs bond that fits your business needs for car imports below.
A single entry bond is typically used for importers needing to ship a single shipment to a port of entry. These bonds work for sporadic importing with shipments that are low in cost value. We recommend this bond if you import goods less than four times a year.
A continuous bond is what you need if you import multiple times throughout the year. Continuous bonds handle everything you need for imports all year long. A US customs continuous bond is crucial for those with multiple importer entries every year. Continuous bonds, which handle high-value shipments, can also be renewed automatically every year so you can keep concentrating on your business.
Customs bonds are required for vehicle imports. To receive the proper customs bond to pass through customs clearance with ease, figure out the customs bond type you need today. We also provide cargo insurance through our network of supply chain companies. Let us walk you through purchasing additional insurance that protects you and your imports.
Are you still undecided on importing vehicles or importing motorcycles to USA? Does the importing process worry you? If importing vehicles seems overwhelming, contact AFC International today to allow our Licensed Customs Brokers to handle all of your vehicle importing needs. The qualifications that a Licensed Customs Broker provides make the import process an easy one.
Our value-added customs brokerage services work together to provide you with an importing process that allows you to concentrate on your business. Have questions? Contact our team today and we'll answer of your questions and get your import into the U.S.
Copy URL to Clipboard
Hello, I'm looking to import a car from Thailand. The car does not have a license but I have the bill of sale and invoices of restoration parts and labour. How can I have the registration done in the US?
I would like to import a 2015 Honda CRV EX-L purchased in Cancun from Mexico to US, final destination is Alaska.is this car in compliance with CBP regulations?
Hello. I’m a non US citizen and thinking to settle in US. I own a 2014 bmw 435i uk specs. What I need and how I can import my car un US? And how I can find if my car meet all the US law requirements. Thank you.
I am trying to figure out the process of shipping my 2007 Mini Cooper S (UK spec) back to the States from here in England. I am US military and will be heading back to the USA later this year and would love to bring the Mini back as it is a great daily driver. What is your best advice for starting this process?
Hello, I work (US. Army Base Vicenza Italy) and reside here in Vicenza Italy. We have a 2016 Fiat 500L we are thinking of converting to US Specs and shipping back to Texas, USA. The vehicle is registered at the Army Base. It's no longer registered in the Italian system of course.
What an estimated cost? and who should we contact to get the process started?
Thanks
Want to Import the following:
Make: Fiat
Year: 1972
VIN: 2979553
Odometer Reading: 40700 Km
Model 500 N
Color: Orange
Style: Normal
Title Number: AR 0514324
From: Via Impiove37/E, Sesto Calende (VA) 21018, Italy
To: 11901 Gaucho Ct, Haslet,Texas 76052 USA
Hello, We are US citizens who’ve been living and working in France a number of years, and now retiring back to the states. We’d like to bring our 2011 Peugeot van 5008 back. It was purchased here in France. Is the bond kit you sell, for us to fill out the forms ourselves? And does this include your hands-on-service of the process and talking with the shipping company on our behalf? Or is that an additional fee? Thanks for your clarification. I read, « The ultimate Guide… » fabulous! Thanks so much for this info.
Sincerely,
Carol Barr
I’m a US citizen, I drove my car from Canada to California and now decided to stay and not go back. I have a Honda and I got compliance letter, how can I have CBP to give me the form so I can register the car? Do I have to go back to the same border or can I use any border in California?
I have a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT I would like to bring back From Bahrain when I transfer back to the US. It is GCC spec, but has US VIN and built in US, and I seem to be having difficulty finding import information.. any guidance you may have?
Hello. I will be importing a 1987 toyota land cruiser from Italy to the USA.
I have some concerns about this process and what is allowable on my vehicle, new parts, odometer, etc.
Can you help or know someone who can? I have read USCBP / epa and other govt sites but they offer poor information.
I am USA citizen.
Is it possible to import an electric quadricycle to be used as a LSV (low speed vehicle)or NEV (neighborhood electric vehicle) ? Similar to a golf cart?
Does it have to be strictly 25 years old to enter USA, can a 22 year old vehicle make it in?
Hi, I am NOT an US citizen but I would like to import a 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ 105 (model never sold in the US) to be sell in USA
Is this possible?
Thanks in advance for any info
I am a US citizen moving back to US after the death of my Canadian husband. I need to know what I have to do to import my Nissan Murano (2020 ).What forms and where to get them. Any problems? My Vin, EPA stickers are not completely readable as some is scratched off
I have 2 right hand drive cars (Rover 623 and Rover 416) that are both 25 years old. These are cars that were never sold in the USA. Is it hard to get cars with UK/Euro style VIN numbers registered in a state? Is it harder to bring in cars from manufacturers that never sold cars in the US?
Hi Derek,
Generally, it can be difficult, time-consuming and expensive to import non-U.S. compliant vehicles. However, since your cars are 25 years old, the process is a bit easier. Your vehicles won't need to be compliant with all of the safety and emission standards. You'll still need to comply with some of the standards and complete all of the required paperwork.
We offer an ebook that covers all of the required documents and walks through the entire import process. You can purchase a copy of the book at the link below:
The Ultimate Guide to Importing a Car to the U.S.
Hi. US citizen living in Dubai, UAE. I have a 2020 Toyota Prado (GCC spec) and was wondering how difficult it would be to bring this vehicle back to the USA when I return later this year.
Toyota Prado is not sold in US but is essentially a Lexus GX without the bells and whistles.
Hi Ken,
We actually have an e-book with the exact information that you're looking for! The ebook outlines paperwork that needs to be completed, specific car importing rules, and it even provides a list of companies that specialize in importing personal vehicles. You can use the link below to purchase a copy of the ebook. Let us know if you have anymore questions!
Importing a Car Ebook
Hi... I would like to buy and import a model of new Chevy Silverado that is not made for the USA market. They are made for the middle east (and other countries) and Mexico. The truck is actually made in the USA but exported to the middle east. Are you:
1. Familiar with the import process.
2. Know if the brand new truck made for the middle east meets all USA requirements.
3. Know if it could be intercepted in the usa BEFORE it is shippoed overseas.
What do you think. Is this practical
Hi. I have a 2006 LR3 I bought in Beirut, Lebanon and would like to import to New York when I move there, what are the steps I need to do?
Hi Raghida,
We offer an informative and helpful e-book that provides you the complete process for importing a vehicle into the U.S. You can use the link below to learn about the book and purchase it directly on our site!
Importing a Car E-book
I'm American citizen and living in Japan, am moving back to state soon. 25 year old 1996 SUZUKI JIMNY WILD WIND can allow shipping to U.S.?
There front and back don't have good bumper as the way they build this 1990's Suzuki Jimny.
Hi Mark,
We have a car importing guide that contains all of the information you're looking for! The link below will take you to the product page where you can view details about the ebook and purchase it.
Importing a Car Ebook
Hello. I am repatriating a 2007 Tundra (purchased and previously registered in the USA) from the UAE. I am also including household goods inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle. Does this exempt me from some hoops, such as EPA and tariffs? Do I need a customs broker or can I just take delivery when it clears the port? TIA
Hi Donald,
This is a unique case given the fact that it was previously registered in the U.S. This will help during the process of importing it, but there will still be quite a bit of documentation you'll need to compile and provide. We offer an e-book that goes over all of the information you'll need and even covers special cases like the one you described. You can purchase a copy of the ebook at the link below.
Importing a Car to the U.S.
I have a Pinzgauer 6x6 that has a VW Euro3 engine manufactured in 2007.
It all seems a bit of a minefield but can a EURO3 engine be imported into the US ?
Hi Bob,
You can import your vehicle into the U.S. but you may be required to make modifications to the engine and/or vehicle to bring it into compliance with U.S. safety and emission standards. We offer a comprehensive ebook that goes over the specific regulations and covers everything you'll need to import a vehicle into the U.S. We even include a list of NHTSA registered importers that are able to conduct vehicle modifications for you.
You can purchase a copy of the ebook at the link below:
Importing a Car to the U.S.
Hi. I work for the US Military in Korea and bought a 2008 Infiniti M35 in korea. I keep hearing Korean Specs vs US Specs. What will I have to change on the car in order to have it shipped back to the US when I return? Thanks.
Hi Ron,
Since this is an import of a personal item, we can't directly handle the import. However, we did create an import guide that provides you with the information you're looking for. Let us know if you have any additional questions.
I am in the military in Japan and I will like to take with me a BMW MINI 2007. I will like to know if I need to do any changes to be able to import it.
Hi Carmen,
We have an e-book that covers all of the rules and regulations regarding importing a motorcycle for personal use. The book even includes information on specific details for importing a motorcycle as a member of the military. You can purchase the e-book at the following link- The Complete Guide to Importing a Motorcycle to the U.S. Good luck!
Will I need a broker to bring a 1991 Land Rover Defender to the states? I am in the military returning home with it.
Hi Andreas,
You can import your vehicle without a broker. However, we do advise you speak with a Customs Broker prior to importing. Since your vehicle is over 25 years old and you're also a member of the military, your situation is a bit more unique than others. We offer Licensed Customs Broker Consulting sessions to review the details of your import shipment and provide the necessary guidance and information. During this session, our brokers will go over everything that's needed for your specific situation to safely import your vehicle. We look forward to assisting you further.
Hi,
I am a US legal resident and I am going back to the US after spending a year in Chile due to family reasons. While in Chile I bought a BMW X1 2019. Can I bring it home to the US?
Thank you.
Hi Alejandra,
We've responded privately with the information that you requested. We look forward to helping you!
What about importing a 2020 Toyota FJ Cruiser LHD from UAE?
How about a 2020 Toyota Prado it's the same a 2020 Lexus GX460 less bells and whistles.
Do these fall under the similar vehicle clause?
Since the FJ cruiser were once sold up until 2014 in the united states?
The Lexus GX460 is still sold here.
Hi Bryan,
All of these vehicles fall under regulations by CBP, EPA, DOT, and NHTSA. No matter what type of vehicle you're importing, it will need to be compliant with all requirements of these agencies.
We've responded to you privately with additional information.
How about Chinese EV cars? There are several coming on the market and I would like to bring one or more in. These vehicles do not have emissions and are only electric powered. I do not see any details regarding Chinese products.
What are the steps needed and how can your company help?
Hi Sid,
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. You are 100% correct. The automotive market does have a number of Chinese EV cars prepared to hit the U.S. market soon. Since the vehicles do not have emissions, as you pointed out, they are not regulated by the EPA. They are however required to pass safety standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This is a process that takes place before individual imports. You simply need to ensure that the vehicle(s) you're importing are approved for use in the U.S. by the NHTSA and provide proper documentation.
Our company can absolutely help you with this! Feel free to reach out to our team at (855)912-0406 or schedule a consulting session with one our Licensed Customs Brokers. We'll be happy to answer all of your questions and assist you with importing your electric vehicles.
I am interested in potentially licensing a particular make/model Chinese EV to sell in the US. Does this require 3rd party testing to verify FMVSS compliance or am I overcomplicating the requirements?
hi
i have a 2019 toyota highlander made in the USA and sold in Canada.. i am moving to the US from Canada.. Toyota canada will give me a complaince letter.. do i need a broker or can i just drive to the border myself and clear the car?
Hi Abdel,
Depending on what's included in the compliance letter that you receive from Toyota Canada, you may or may not need the assistance of a broker to clear your vehicle. One of our customs experts can review the details on your compliance letter and determine if a broker will need to clear your vehicle. We offer Licensed Customs Broker Consulting. During your consulting session, our experts will go over all of the requirements and necessary details regarding your import. We look forward to helping you!
I would like to import a mini dump truck from Philppines [off-road only]
Imports from Japan are done daily, but they are Right Hand Drive.
The exact same vehicles in Philippines are Left Hand Drive.
Are there any challenges getting the same vehicle imported from the Philippines vs Japan?
Hi Carson,
Any type of vehicle import, including the one you're referencing, will have some challenges to overcome. Foreign-made vehicles will need to comply with EPA emission requirements. We offer consulting sessions in which our Licensed Customs Brokers can go over exactly what you need to do to safely and legally import your vehicle. You can use the link below to purchase your consultation session
Import Export Consulting
I am non-US citizen and to wish to settle down in the US since my daughters are US citizens already living in the US. I currently live in Italy. I wish to ship two of my old vehicles (more than 60 years old) which have been registered in my name for over 10 years now. One of them is a US built Jeep and the other one is a UK built Land Rover. My questions are:
1. As a non-US citizen, am I allowed to import vehicles in to the US?
2. If no, do my daughters need to be the registered owners of these vehicle to qualify to import? If yes, is there a requirement of number of years the vehicles have to be registered in their names?
3. Can my daughters import them when they return to the US after visiting me in Italy?
Is there a way which will importation of these vehicles in to the US with minimum difficulties?
Thanks in advance for your advice!
Good Morning Anith! Those are great questions! We offer customs consulting services that can help answer your questions and help guide you through what certifications the vehicles would need to be brought into the United States. We hope to hear from you soon!
Good Morning David! There are some steps and regulations that you need to follow in order to bring cars into the United States! I have provided the link to our consulting team who can assist you in answering all your questions! We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Is it possible to import a vehicle to Canada as an American citizen and wait out the rest of the 25 year term? This way I get the car I'm looking at sooner, put it in storage, and just jump across the border if I want to drive it. Then bring it home in 5 years.
Thanks!
I have a 2005 Honda CRV I bought in Mexico and would like to import to the USA. The car has air bags, gets great gas mileage, and always passes the twice annual Mexico City emissions tests. What steps should I take? Ultimate destination is Florida.
It's cool that once a car is 25 years old it can go through customs with no restrictions. I'm trying to get a car from Canada and lucky for me it's around 27 years old! That'll be really helpful for me to know so I can get my car through customs.
How about importing light (a.k.a. mini) NEW 2018-2019 vehicles from Japan to the States NOT intended for the road? Rather, they will be used for electric car conversion projects. Those Japanese mini cars are all 660cc engine vehicles and the best candidate for electric conversion donor vehicles because they are so small and light; much smaller than the smallest cars sold in US.
My plan is to film the whole process and share the entire conversion process via YouTube. They will never be driven on the US roads even after it's finished, so there won't be any need to have them licensed.
In this specific case, do I still have to go through the usual EPA and DOT requirements for those intended to be driven on the road?
Thank you.
Thanks for reaching out with your question. Your case is very specific and we'd like the opportunity to talk to you about your import. We offer consulting services where we are able to walk you through all the info you’ll need including the document requirements, clearing customs and any duties and fees you may be responsible for. We can also handle filing your paperwork with Customs and Border Protection if we determine you'll need it. While a customs broker and freight forwarder are not the same thing, we can assist with the actual shipping of your your vehicles from Japan into the US if you need help with that, as well. We will email you to follow up and get started.
Hi, If I want to import a brand new Peugeot 3008, is it true that I should have it crashed test first? EPA tested for fuel and emission? California test too?