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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires imported motorcycles to meet their emission requirements. Guidelines from the Department of Transportation (DOT) require all motorcycles to abide by safety standards. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will require essential import documents for motorcycles to make entry.
Learning how to import a motorcycle to the U.S. is a difficult and highly regulated process. The consequences for not properly following these steps can be harsh. For this reason, it's extremely important to be fully aware of all the requirements for importing a motorcycle.
This guide will show you how to import a motorcycle into the U.S. while staying in compliance with the CBP, EPA, and DOT.
When buyers are importing a motorcycle from another country, they’ll have to make sure the motorbike conforms to EPA DOT, and CBP standards and regulations. In some cases, regulations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will need to be followed as well.
All of these government agencies have unique requirements that must be met before imported motorcycles can enter the country.
For a motorcycle to enter the country, importers will need to submit an EPA Standard Form 3520-1 to the CBP. This document contains information about the vehicle and the port where it will arrive.
Next, buyers will need to determine if they’re importing their motorcycle permanently or temporarily. They also have to find out if their motorcycle is a U.S. version or non-U.S. version vehicle. A U.S. version vehicle is one that’s manufactured in conformity with EPA emission regulations that are outlined in the Clean Air Act (CAA).
Proof of CAA conformity for permanent import must include:
A non-U.S. version vehicle can only permanently enter the country under the following circumstances:
If an ICI is bringing the motorcycle into the country, they’ll modify and test the vehicle to ensure it meets the EPA’s emission regulations. Temporary motorcycle imports might be eligible for exemption from EPA regulations.
There are five distinct situations where this will be permitted.
In either of these cases, importers will need written approval for the exemption from the EPA prior to the motorcycle arriving in the country.
Motorcycles that were originally manufactured as a U.S. version vehicle and haven’t been modified or altered may enter the country without approval or a Customs Bond. However, importers will still need to submit an EPA Form 3520-1 and declare code “B” on the document.
If the U.S. version vehicle was modified or altered, then a bond will be required. Though CBP sets the amount, the EPA will recommend the bond be equal to the current market value of the vehicle.
The motorcycle also has to undergo restoration to comply with EPA standards it may no longer meet. When submitting the EPA Form 3520-1 for this kind of bike, importers will need to declare code “F”.
The DOT, through the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), enforces numerous import regulations for auto parts and vehicles, including motorcycles. For both permanent and temporary imports, the DOT requires buyers to submit a DOT HS-7.
This document is used to identify the basis of the motorcycle’s entry into the country. The HS-7 has different boxes that give a description of the vehicle and determine if it does or doesn’t abide with certain regulations. Importers simply have to check off the box that applies to their motorcycle.
The NHTSA has two separate regulations for the permanent importation of these vehicles. One is for motorcycles coming from Canada and the other is for motorcycles coming from countries other than Canada.
Buyers can permanently import a motorcycle from Canada free of restriction if the vehicle is less than 25 years old and complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
To prove compliance, the motorcycle should have an FMVSS certification label close to where the steering post and handlebars intersect.
The certification label should have the following:
A motorcycle that complies with Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS), but not with FMVSS, can still be imported as a complying vehicle under the following circumstances.
When filling out an HS-7 document that meets these standards, be sure to check off box 2B. If a motorcycle abides with CMVSS, but doesn’t meet these criteria, it can still be imported permanently if it meets some additional requirements.
For that last point, the bond must be sent to CBP at the time of importation. This is to ensure the vehicle is brought into conformity with FMVSS within 120 days of entry.
Importing a motorcycle from another country is very similar to importing one from Canada. Buyers will still need:
Buyers can speed up the importation process by asking the seller to verify the label is attached to the vehicle in the sales contract. They present this document when submitting their other paperwork to the CBP.
If a motorcycle doesn’t have a certification label, it can’t be imported as a conforming vehicle. The buyer will need to contract with an RI who can either verify it meets certification requirements, or who can modify the vehicle until it does abide with FMVSS.
The RI will also post a DOT Conformance Bond that’s equivalent to one and half times the motorcycle’s dutiable value. When the HS-7 is submitted, it must come with the DOT conformance bond and RI contract attached.
NHTSA also requires manufacturers of motorcycles to complete a few requirements when one of their vehicles are imported.
A designated U.S. agent is essentially someone in the U.S. that’s qualified to handle the manufacturer’s documents on their behalf.
Temporary motorcycle imports don’t need to abide by FMVSS if they’re less than 25 years old. That said, an HS-7 will still have to be submitted for the vehicle to make entry.
If you’re a fan of Japanese vehicles, then read our article on how to import cars from Japan.
As we’ve reviewed, the CPB requires importers to submit an EPA Form 3520-1 and the DOT Form HS-7. However, it also requires a number of other documents.
Before a motorcycle makes entry into the U.S., importers will need to show valid proof of ownership for the bikes using the following.
If importers don’t have the original certificate of title, they can use a certified copy of the original.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has regulations regarding vehicle imports as well. The USDA requires the undercarriage of imported motorcycles and other vehicles to be free of foreign soil.
This is done to ensure no foreign pests are accidentally brought into the country. Motorcycles might be less susceptible to having foreign soil attached to them, but importers should still make sure their bike has been cleaned.
In addition to the documents required by the EPA, DOT, and CBP, importers will need to include additional paperwork that’s part of the standard import process. If these aren’t filed properly, buyers are going to have a hard time clearing customs.
Documents that will be required include:
If applicable, importers may also need a Letter of Recall and Conformity from the manufacturer of their motorcycle.
While obtaining insurance isn’t a requirement when importing a motorcycle into the U.S., it’s a good idea to have this level of protection. There are numerous perils facing a motorcycle as it travels from a foreign country to the United States.
With insurance, importers will have the financial protection to recover from these types of threats.
Before importing a motorcycle into the U.S., buyers should decide on the port their bike will make entry. The CBP has a directory of all the ports along the West and East coast.
There’s also information on ports in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories and commonwealths. Ideally, importers should pick a port of entry that’s close to where they live. This will increase the speed of delivery.
If importing multiple bikes or if the final destination is far enough inland, it may be wise to choose a port based on the availability of supportive logistics services capable of handling any domestic shipping needs.
Motorcycles can have a duty rate up to 2.4 percent. Rates are determined based on the price paid or payable for the vehicle. In some cases, importers can bring their motorcycle into the U.S. duty free.
Instances where buyers can apply for duty-free treatment includes:
A member of the military or a civilian working for the government who is returning from an assignment to extended duty outside CBP territory can include a vehicle as one of their duty-free personal and household effects.
This vehicle will still need to conform to applicable regulations. It will also need to have been purchased abroad and be in the owner’s possession before departure.
Nonresidents can import a motorcycle duty-free if it’s for personal use for up to one year. The vehicle must be imported in conjunction with the owner’s arrival. If the motorcycle doesn’t conform with DOT or EPA standards, it will need to be exported within a year. It’s also forbidden for sale in the United States.
Motorcycles can receive duty-free treatment under USMCA if they meet the automotive goods rule of origin requirements.It must also meet other automotive rules of origin requirements under USMCA, which include:
Motorcycles that were returned within three years of being exported will be duty-free. That said, the value must not have advanced, and no alterations should have been made.
After the motorcycle has cleared customs, buyers can finally register their vehicle with their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While DMVs can have extremely long wait times, completing this process is simple and straightforward.
Classic motorcycles typically refer to bikes that are 25 years of age or older. Fortunately for importers, the EPA exempts motorcycles that are 21 original production (OP) years or older from CAA requirements. OP years are determined by subtracting the year a motorcycle was built from the year it’s imported
Besides age, classic bikes will need to meet a few criteria to receive exemption::
It should be noted that any motorcycle that was made one year prior to the implementation of EPA regulations for their class of vehicle may not receive exemption.
NHTSA has unique regulations for the importation of vehicles that are 25 OP years or older. Motorcycles this old can be imported without regard to whether it abides with FMVSS guidelines.
Box 1 on the HS-7 Declaration form should be checked off when importing a bike that’s 25 OP years or older. A label should be permanently affixed to the vehicle by the original manufacturer with the date the motorcycle was built.
This will establish the age of the motorcycle. If a label isn’t present, importers should have documentation like an invoice that shows when the bike was originally sold. A registration showing the vehicle was registered at least 25 years ago is also acceptable.
Motorcycles that don’t have a label or paperwork proving its age will need a statement from a recognized vehicle history society identifying the age of the bike.
If you’re trying to import a car or truck, then read our article on how to import vehicles to USA.
When importing motorcycles, buyers need to find a reputable international shipping company to help them move their bikes. These vehicles can be transported overseas or by air. We’ll discuss some of the safest options for each method that importers can use.
Importers of motorcycles can have their bike transported within the confines of a cargo container. These giant metal boxes will provide superb protection for the vehicle during transit.
To keep the motorcycle from bouncing around in the container, they’re lashed in place using points between the floor and walls. A block of wood is typically placed on the front and side of each tire for extra security.
Motorcycles transported in a container are often covered with thin layers of cardboard that are secured using clear plastic wrap. This offers cushioning in case the motorcycle becomes insecure and bounces against the container walls.
Containers are also a great option for protecting bulk shipments. The size of the bike impacts the final packing, but we’ve broken down the average number of bikes that will fit in standard marine containers.
| Container Size | Recommended Number of Motorcycles* |
| 20 ft | 8 |
| 40 ft | 14 |
| 45 ft | 21 |
*Based on industry averages
Packing style, securement methods, and bike size will impact these numbers. However, it still serves as a decent guide for planning shipments.
Roll on, roll off (RORO) services are another option you can utilize if you’re using ocean transport to import your motorcycle. These vessels are designed to move vehicles of all varieties.
Rather than being loaded in a container, motorcycles can be driven on and off RORO vessels, hence their name. When on board the boat, the motorcycle is secured in a purpose built rack using tie downs and skids.
For importers that are in a hurry to receive their motorcycle import, then international air transport is the way to go. This form of shipping is much faster than using a vessel, but it’s also a more expensive option.
When transported by air, motorcycles are packed in crates designed to air cargo specifications. Within the crate, bikes are secured in place with straps that are tied to the bottom of the box. Cushioning is put in the empty spaces to help add extra protection to the vehicle.
For an additional fee, buyers can schedule the delivery of their motorcycles directly to their front door. Door to door service is a good option for importers that are bringing in a small amount of motorcycles into the country.
When importing motorcycles in bulk, a more affordable delivery option is port to port. This lets buyers pick up motorcycles at shipping ports or delivery terminals once their bikes are cleared by customs officials.
Given that no import of motorcycles is exactly the same, the cost to bring these goods into the country will vary. That said, it’s possible to get estimates on the expenses associated with purchasing a bike from overseas. We’ve listed the potential costs that importers of motorcycles will have to pay.
| Import Expenses | Amount |
| New Motorcycle | $4,000 — $30,000 |
| Duty Rate | Free — 2.4% |
| Full-Container Load (FCL) Transport | $2,000 — $3,000 |
| RORO Transport | $500 — $1,500 |
| Air Transport | $2,000 — $5,000 |
Provided by Rumble On, CBP, and Industry Professionals
Keep in mind, these ranges can be higher or lower depending on the unique details of the shipment. Other factors could also be at play that can add to costs or reduce expenses. Importers of motorcycles should consult with a Licensed Customs Brokers to determine the charges they’ll need to pay.
Incoterms® are three-letter import trading terms used in international sales for imported goods. These terms outline the transfer of responsibilities for buyers and sellers when it comes to moving the goods overseas.
Depending on the one that’s decided, importers may be able to save themselves a considerable amount of money on insurance and transportation costs. With the support of a Licensed Customs Broker, buyers will be able to find a term that works best for them and their seller.
Successfully importing a motorcycle to the United States involves a careful understanding of regulations and a strategic approach. At USA Customs Clearance, we specialize in providing expert guidance and services to make your importation process seamless and efficient.
Our services include:
If you’re ready to get your motorcycle into the country, then book your consulting session today. You can also call our team at (855) 912-0406 to use one of our many services.
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l am considering importing electric motorcycles into Canada from China they all come with headlights tail lights signal lights front and rear disc brakes battery between 2000 and 10000 watts. Do you anticipate any problems. also would the duty still be 2.4 percent
Hi. I have a 2022 Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 Special that I want to bring to the USA when I move in August 2023. I know I can ship for 12 months, but wondered if I could do the DOT and EPA alterations after it arrives to register in in the USA?
Hi
Can i import Yamaha Tmax 560 from Japan? Is it possible?
Hi, I have a question about importing motorcycle from Canada to the U.S. There is a peculiarity to this situation, however.
Background: Ducati made a motorcycle model called the Supersport 1000DS and sold it in the U.S. and Canada, in both road-legal and competition-only versions. All Ducati motorcycles sold in the U.S. and Canada were imported to North America by a single company; all road-legal models were built to U.S. emissions and safety standards; competition-only versions were built to U.S. emissions standards but lacked the safety equipment (lights, horn, license-plate mount, etc.) needed to be road-legal.
The problem with the specific motorcycle I’d like to import is that it was originally sold as a competition-only version of the Ducati Supersport 1000DS, then, immediately after it was originally purchased, was modified to become a street-legal version of the Supersport 1000DS. It's technically the same as a version of the model that began life as road-legal, and is registered as a road-legal version of the model in Canada, but the stickers on the frame still say it’s for competition use only.
I downloaded Form 3520-1, the EPA Declaration Form. Upon reading the form, it seems to me that Code L no longer applies, since the bike is no longer a competition-only version, but a road-legal version, and I would want to import it as such. However, it still has the competition-only stickers.
The description of Code EE says that proof of the model being “identical in all respects to a U.S. certified version” can be in the form of a “Canadian emissions control label, registration or title, or letter from the U.S. or Canadian manufacturer representative on letterhead verifying manufacture for sale in Canada.”
The use of the serial commas between the three forms of proof combined with the use of the conjunctive “or” before the final form of proof seems to imply that either a label, or a letter, or a Canadian registration card that allows the owner to license the bike for the road would be sufficient. My question is whether or not I’m reading this correctly. If I am, then importing the bike shouldn’t be a problem, because the owner has a registration card and I therefore wouldn’t need the additional proofs of an emissions sticker and a letter from the manufacturer rep.
If you could clarify this for me, I’d sure appreciate it.
I have a 1987 Honda XR 600 off-road motorcycle Frame and some engine components. It is parts only, not enough for a complete bike. What import requirements are there for motorcycles parts?
hi
I am looking to import a new Suzuki GSX R125 for race track use only (will never see a license plate or the DMV 🙂
any comments and Ideas ?
Marian
Bärenstark
Racing
Hi Marian,
We offer an informative and helpful e-book that covers this exact topic and much more. You can use the link below to learn about and purchase the book directly on our site!
How to Import a Motorcycle to the U.S.
Hello,
I am thinking to purchase one of these Yamaha 125ZR or better known as Yamaha Z is a 125 cc two-stroke moped or underbone motorcycle produced by Yamaha in Malaysia. My question is since this has only 125cc ( scooter type) and do I need any of type paper work to import it from Malaysia ? I am currently live in Oklahoma.
Hi Andy,
Any vehicle regardless of size will require a good deal of paperwork completed in order to legally import it. We have a motorcycle import guide (which covers scooters as well) that can provide you with all of the information that you'll need. You can use the link below to learn more about the guide and purchase it.
Motorcycle Import Guide
Hi, I’m interested in importing some electric motorcycles to the United States from Colombia. Would this be possible?
Thanks
JJ
Hi JJ,
This is definitely possible and we're happy to help you with this! We can a couple of support options based on whether your import is for personal or commercial use. One of our import experts will reach out to you provide further assistance. We look forward to helping you!
I am about to move to Portland, OR and would like to bring my Electric motorbike with me from the UK as the model isnt sold in the USA. Obviously emissions will be fine but what other advice do you have?
Cheers
Hi Kev,
We actually offer an ebook that covers all of the information you'll need to legally import your motorbike! You can purchase a copy of the ebook at the link below:
Guide to Importing a Motorcycle to the U.S.
Question: I want to ship(by sea)from the Philippines, my 2016 Harley Street 500 XG, made in India, to The U.S..What must I obtain to accomplish this?
Hi Steven,
We have an ebook that covers the entire import process for motorcycles. It includes what documentation you'll need to complete, when it needs to be submitted to CBP, and even includes a list of customs brokers that handle personal imports.
You can purchase a copy of the ebook at the link below:
Guide to Importing a Motorcycle
Hi:
I would like to bring a vespa scooter from India to US. Scooter does not run and is in pretty beat up shape. It has a big emotional attachment and due to which I would like to bring it. I might restore its beauty but have no intent to ride/hit the road with it. Is this even possible ?
Hi RB,
Being that this is a personal import and you have no intention of using it on the road, you should be able to receive an EPA exemption. We've privately sent you some addition information that will assist you.
Hi Jesse,
We've reached out privately and provided you with this information. We look forward to working with you!
Hi Mike,
Our Licensed Customs Brokers would be happy to help you with this during a customs consulting session. During the consulting session, our broker will go over and provide you with all of the required paperwork and discuss everything you'll need to safely import your motorcycle. We look forward to working with you, Mike.
Hello,
I'm looking at moving back to the US from Japan. I want to take my 2008 Yamaha WR250R with me if possible (I've customized it a lot, and I wouldn't get my money back if I sold it here)
I believe it is quite similar to the US model WR250R, but am unsure of the specific differences. (emissions control differences I would imagine)
Is there anything you can do to help me get on the right track?
Thanks for reaching out with your import question. When importing any type of vehicle, there are EPA and DOT standards that must be met in order for your import to be cleared through customs. I would recommend you research importing a motorcycle on the EPA and DOT website for additional information to ensure you have all the information needed.
Hi! We are immigrating from South Africa to Tyler Texas. I have a 250GTS Vespa 2011 year model. The scooter is in mint condition and has hardly seen any tarmac. What is required besides the original purchase document to get my scooter in the USA?
Our moving agent said sell it and buy a new one. I am very attached to it and don’t want to sell it.
Some advise would be appreciated.
Thank you.
Thank you for your inquiry.
On the road scooters, when imported to the U.S., must meet current U.S. DOT Safety Standards and EPA Emission Standards. Most scooters, built for other than the U.S. market, do not meet the standards. Bringing a non-compliant scooter into compliance can be very costly.
I am looking to move to the USA (Oregon to be exact) from Australia and bring a triumph 800 XCA 2018 tiger with me that i bought for personal use. I have been informed that the TFT screen is just a computer program to change from kilometres to miles etc. I Do have some where filed away original purchase info etc. so can it be done and is it economical or is it worth just selling and buying new in the USA. Not in a rush as we are not coming back till next year but would like to know so if needed i can begin organising paperwork or a full service importer.
Thanks for reaching out with your import question. When importing any type of vehicle, there are EPA and DOT standards that must be met in order for your import to be cleared through customs. You should research importing a motorcyle on the EPA and DOT website for more info.
I'm in England on military orders and I purchased a motorcycle for personal use. I plan on air freighting it back to my home station in Phoenix AZ. Where can I start? I have the title since i bought it out right and the manufacture (Herald Motor Company) just happens to be about 4 miles from where i'm staying. Thanks for your guidance.
Thanks for reaching out with your question. We will email you with some information to help you along. Thank you for your service.
Hello Folks,
i purchased a 1966 parts bike in India and imported it as such and just completed it and want to register it on Cal.
do you know what paperwork i would need?
best,
Thanks for reaching out with your question. The Department of Motor Vehicles in California would be the best source of info about how to register your motorcycle since you have already imported it into the US.
Can a Benelli Leoncino 500 motorcycle be imported into the U.S?
The model of motorycycle is less important than it's compliance with the US's DOT and EPA regulations and whether you are importing the motorcycle permanantly or temporarily. If your import is for commercial purposes or for resale, you will need a customs bond. Click on the Chat button in the bottom right corner of the page and we can help answer any questions you may have.
I want to purchase an electric motorcycle from China. Seller handles all, will ship it to my house. I am just afraid california dmv might not allow register. Thanks for any advice.
We offer consulting services where we are able to help with all the info you'll need including the paperwork and document requirements, clearance customs and any duties and fees you may be responsible for. We can also help you understand the DOT and EPA requirements for your motorcycle. We will email you the details so we can get started.
Bought a completely restored 1974 Yamaha 360 DT in California and want to import it into Canada. We will be returning in mid Apri via Sweetgrass/Coutts Border crossing. I have CA Certificate of Title and paid $2800USD. What is the process and what do I nee to do?
Thanks for reaching out with your question. Customs and Border Protection is a good source of information for your specific question.
Hi i have a 1997 honda XRV 750 in Venezuela and would like to bring it to the US,since the bike its over 21 years old no EPA need it but what about the rest? its for personal use in Florida.
Thanks
Since you're importing the motorcycle for personal use, you won't need to file a Customs Bond. You can find all the info you'll need about compliance and the paperwork you'll need to file from Customs and Border Protection.