Importing a car usually costs between $2,000 and $2,500. This covers basic import fees, but be prepared for additional costs, such as approximately $10,000 for engine testing to meet EPA standards, excluding any required modifications.
A Comprehensive Guide to Importing Vehicles: Tips, Regulations, and Cost Analysis
Importing vehicles means bringing vehicles from one country into another for personal or commercial use. Different countries have various regulations and requirements regarding automobile imports, including emission standards and safety regulations.
Importing a car into the United States can be challenging and complex for importers. Handling it correctly from start to finish if you want your car to be accepted at the U.S. border is essential. Imported motorcars must comply with regulations set by various organizations, including the safety standards set by the Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966, the Clean Air Act of 1968, and other emissions and bumper standards. These regulations ensure that all vehicles entering the country are safe, reliable, and up to par with those manufactured within the United States.
Importers must also know eligibility requirements, approval rules, and restrictions on importing a vehicle. The logistics of importing a car can be complicated, and it's important to factor in costs associated with shipping, customs duties, and taxes.
It's also crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest legislation and rules related to autos brought from abroad. For example, some vehicles from Mexico may have different requirements than those from other countries.
To ensure a smooth process, importers should work with reputable import/export specialists who are familiar with the system and can guide them through the process. By following the necessary procedures and regulations, importers can successfully import a motor into the United States.
Organizations that Play a Vital Role in Vehicle Importation in the U.S.
As an international importer, it is important to understand the various steps involved in bringing vehicle(s) into the U.S. In some cases, the import process may involve working with a team of individuals who specialize in importing certain types of vehicles and can provide valuable guidance on the process. In addition, various factors must be considered when acquiring a motorcar from overseas, such as the type or model of the vehicle, its value, and its ability to meet U.S. safety and emissions standards.
To ensure a smooth import process, it is recommended that importers work with a business that specializes in importing autos into the United States. These types of services can assist with every part of the import process, from identifying the best places to source motorcars to handling the paperwork and logistics of getting the vehicle(s) to its final destination.
Ultimately, the ability to successfully import a motor machine into the US will depend on many factors, including the type of motor being imported, the regulations and requirements of the U.S. government, and the expertise of the individual or team handling the import process. By working with experienced professionals and taking the necessary steps to ensure compliance with all regulations and requirements, it is possible to successfully import a vehicle into the United States and enjoy it as your property.
Understanding Legalities and Protecting Rights
Importing an auto into the US can be a complex and daunting task, fraught with legal intricacies that require careful navigation. Individuals and businesses looking to bring cars from overseas must be acutely aware of their rights and the regulations governing this process. Consulting with an attorney who specializes in import laws is crucial. These legal experts provide invaluable advice, ensuring that all actions comply with U.S. laws and regulations. An attorney can clarify the role and responsibilities of an independent commercial importer, a key player in the importation process, who ensures that automobiles meet America's stringent safety and environmental standards. This initial consultation can prevent many issues down the line, safeguarding importers from potential legal entanglements.
Addressing Liability and Accident Concerns
Importing vehicles also involves understanding and mitigating liability, especially in accidents. The United States has strict standards regarding motor safety, and failure to meet these can result in significant legal consequences. An attorney can advise on the necessary modifications and inspections required to ensure that an imported vehicle complies with U.S. standards. This is particularly crucial as any accidents involving non-compliant cars can lead to complicated legal disputes, potentially involving court proceedings. A judge may hold importers responsible for damages resulting from non-compliance, leading to hefty fines or worse. Therefore, it's imperative to have legal support to navigate these potential pitfalls, ensuring that the motor machine meets all required safety standards to avoid such liabilities.
Achieving Successful Importation Results
Finally, achieving successful results in vehicle importation in America hinges on a thorough understanding of the legal framework and having the right support system. An attorney can represent an importer's interests in court if any disputes or issues arise during the importation process. Their expertise can be pivotal in presenting the situation to a judge, ensuring that the importer's perspective is accurately and effectively communicated. Moreover, legal support can be instrumental in resolving any damages or compliance-related disputes, often leading to more favorable outcomes. In conclusion, while the process of auto importation in the U.S. can be complex, having the right legal advice and support can significantly ease the journey, ensuring compliance, minimizing liability, and ultimately leading to successful importation endeavors.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
To ensure the security of the US, the President and Congress have taken action to create regulations that businesses must comply with to import goods into the country. These regulations include the requirement of a certification label on certain products, as well as the use of specific codes to track imports and ensure they are accounted for. These measures are put into effect to ensure the safety and security of the country. If you are a business owner and wish to import goods into the United States, it is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations and codes that are required to comply with the law. You can find more information on the CBP website and their "Importing into the United States" page.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
P.O. Box 7407
Washington, D.C. 20044
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is commonly associated with regulating air pollution caused by power sources like coal, electricity or solar power. However, it should be pointed out that the EPA also imposes regulations on motor machine imports. If you plan on bringing a car into the United States, it must comply with all vehicle air pollution emissions standards set by the EPA. This means that you may need to modify your car's engine or exhaust system to meet the EPA's emission standards. Additionally, the EPA considers the engine displacement of a vehicle when assessing its emissions, so it's important to be aware of this factor when considering importing an automobile into the US.
EPA Form 3520-1 Is required for most motor machine imports, and this includes cars, trucks, motorcycles, kit cars, disassembled motorcars, off-road SUVs and light-duty cars, trucks, and motorcycle engines. The form is not required on motors imported directly from their manufacturer if they are new automobiles and already have an EPA certificate of conformity and an EPA emission control label. There are, however, some automobiles that are exempt from the emissions requirement, and those include:
Non-chassis mounted vehicles
Race cars and trucks
Motors manufactured before January 1, 1968
Unregulated fuel vehicles
You can visit the EPA website for more information on the EPA and automobile intake.
The EPA can be contacted by phone by calling: 734-214-4100
You can also contact the EPA directly by sending a written letter to the following address:
U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), all motors imported into the United States are subject to federal safety, bumper, and theft prevention standards, and all autos not originally manufactured in the United States must conform to all federal motor vehicle safety standards.
This requirement means that all automobiles newer than 25 years old must comply with the Department of Transportation (DOT) motor machine safety standards. Passenger cars manufactured after 1973 must comply with bumper safety standards, and the manufacturer must have a label affixed to the motor guaranteeing that all standards have been met.
If a motor does not have the conformity sticker affixed by the manufacturer, the vehicle owner will be responsible for paying one and a half times the vehicle's duty value on top of the normal Customs entry bond that must be paid at the time of import into the U.S.
To reach the DOT for further information, you can call 202-366-5291.
You can find valuable motor wheel import information on the NHTSA website.
You can also send a written letter for information on import requirements to:
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
400 7th Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Importing a Car Purchased in Canada to the United States
If you plan to import a car from Canada to the United States, you should know that the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) has changed the rules. The new agreement allows vehicles that are at least 30 years old to cross the border without worrying about emissions and safety standards.
However, if your auto is newer than that, you will need to comply with import laws and regulations. You must contact the vehicle manufacturer at least 2-3 weeks before the import date to obtain a letter of clearance showing the auto complies with all U.S. emission and safety standards. The VIN must be included in the letter.
Once you have the letter, you can take it to your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to register the car and get plates. Remember that if your car was manufactured between December 31, 1974, and December 31, 1975, it must meet bumper standards. It must meet emissions standards if it was manufactured between December 31, 1969 and December 31, 1977.
Documentation
You will need to make sure you have the following documentation:
Bill of Sale showing the VIN
Proof of Ownership (The Bill of Sale should have the owner's name)
Temporary License Plate
Canadian Insurance Card
Duties
If the vehicle gets 22.5 or fewer miles per gallon, you must pay a “Gas Guzzler” tax on top of other fees and taxes.
At Customs, you must pay duties and taxes to bring the vehicle into the United States. You can apply for exemption of duty fees if you meet the following requirements:
You must drive the vehicle into the United States
You must have bought the vehicle on the same trip to Canada
You must use the vehicle only for personal use
Once the vehicle has been cleared for import by Customs, you must immediately have it registered in the United States and obtain U.S. insurance of you have not already done so. You may also need a state inspection of emissions, depending on your state.
Importing a Classic Car to the United States
Generally, cars considered classic or antique are exempt from emissions and safety standards required on newer vehicles. This means that if you find a great classic car while you’re visiting friends in Canada or Europe, two of the biggest countries for Americans to find classics, and you want to bring it to the United States with you, chances are that you won’t find a great deal of difficulty in doing so.
Ideally, importing a classic car is no different than importing another. You mus arrange shipment with an international car shipper and pay them to transport the car overseas. Hiring the right company will be crucial in getting your new car into the United States safely and in cooperation with all U.S. import laws. When you have the right shipping agent, you’ll find fewer problems and a much smoother shipping experience.
There will be a couple of ways to get the classic car shipped overseas, and while each mode of transport is widely used, you will need to determine which is best for your car.
RORO - RORO transport is an economical way to ship a vehicle overseas. It entails driving the vehicle onto the ship, securing it in place, and then traveling across the ocean to the destination in the U.S. There are thousands of vehicles shipped by RORO daily throughout the world, and it is a safe mode of transport. The car will, however, be exposed to seawater, and if you have a classic car, you may not want seawater to contact the car as it can cause rusting.
Container - Many classic car owners use a shipping container when moving a classic overseas. The container is sealed and prevents seawater, people, and other hazards from contacting the vehicle during shipment. Usually, the contents of a container are unknown to crew members, and vehicles remain safe throughout the shipment.
When the auto has reached Customs in the U.S, you will need to pay the required duties and taxes and then must comply with your local laws on registration, license plates and insurance.
Prohibited Countries
Some vehicle imports will be prohibited if they involve the governments of specific countries, and those include motor vehicles from the following countries of origin:
Afghanistan
Iran
Cuba
Yugoslavia
Iraq
North Korea
Sudan
Libya
Serbia
The U.S. Department of Treasury sets these regulations. To contact the U.S. Department of Treasury, you can call 202-622-2500.
As the motor vehicle's owner, it will be up to you to make all arrangements to have your vehicle shipped. You can hire a reliable international car shipper to transport the vehicle internationally into the United States on your behalf. You must be aware of the arrival date so you can arrange to have the motor processed through Customs and Border Protection.
Motor vehicles will need to be processed at the first entry port unless the owner has arranged to have a freight forwarder from overseas deliver the automobile to a port with a CBP office that will be easier for you to get to for processing the import.
A-1 Auto Transport Ships Worldwide.
Get a Free, No Obligation to Buy, Auto Shipping Quote.
As a vehicle owner who wants to have their car, truck, or other mode of transportation imported into the USA, you will need to take care of several things in advance to ensure the automobile is ready for import.
Cleaning the Vehicle Exterior
All motor vehicles must be thoroughly cleaned before shipment from another country. This includes the undercarriage. While many believe this is to ensure dirt does not damage other vehicles on the shipment, it is due to safeguards being in place to prevent dangerous pests from entering the United States.
The Department of Agriculture requires that the undercarriage be fully cleaned to remove any soil from foreign countries. It’s a good idea to have the motor professionally cleaned and steam sprayed before it is shipped to help guarantee no trace of foreign soil is left behind, which could cause the import to be delayed or denied.
Cleaning the Vehicle Interior
The exterior is an important factor in importing a vehicle, but the interior of the car is equally important. All personal content needs to be removed before the car is shipped. This is for the safety of the vehicle owner and the safety of shipping personnel and other motor vehicles on the shipment.
During shipment, your motor machine will be susceptible to thieves who may be present on the loading or unloading docks, as well as many people who may be present while the motor is in transit to the U.S. It is best to have the car emptied of all personal content to deter potential break-ins that will damage the van as well as cause a loss of valuables to the owner.
Most shippers will not load a motor vehicle if personal belongings are inside. Vehicles found with narcotics inside will be seized, and the owner may incur a penalty from CBP or law enforcement.
Paperwork Necessary for Import
You must have the following documentation to import your motor vehicle:
Bill of Lading
Bill of Sale
Registration from country of origin
Proof of ownership
EPA Form 3520-1 showing emissions compliance
DOT Form HS-7 showing safety compliance
Manufacturers label on engine showing emission requirements are met (In English)
Duty Rates for U.S. Entry
All motor vehicles entering the United States for import are subject to duty fees. Canadian motor vehicles are duty-free unless CBP states otherwise.
The rates are generally listed at the following percentages:
Automobiles: 2.5%
Large Trucks: 25%
Motorcycles: Possibility of no dutiable fees or will have duties up to 2.4%
U.S. residents who are returning to the United States from travel, studying abroad, or working abroad are eligible for CBP exemption and can receive a credit of up to $800 that can be applied to duty fees if the import meets the following criteria:
The vehicle is imported only for personal use
The van accompanies the owner on their return to the U.S.
The vehicle was purchased/acquired from the country the owner is returning to the U.S. from
Once the exemption is applied, a flat duty rate of only 3% will be applied for the following $1000 of motor vehicle value while the remainder will be dutiable at the normal duty rate.
Is There a Way to Import a Vehicle Duty-Free?
The short answer to this question is, yes, there is a way to ship in a vehicle duty-free. You must meet the requirements to do so, and they include:
Military members and U.S. government employees who return to the United States after extended duty may bring a vehicle along if it conforms to the requirements with their duty-free personal and household goods with no additional duty fees. The stipulation requires that the van/motorvan was purchased internationally and it must be in the owner’s possession before departure to the USA. Navy personnel are eligible for 120 days or longer of extended duty exemption, and others with extended duty of 140 days or more will also be granted exemption.
S. citizens employed abroad may import a foreign vehicle duty-free if they enter the United States for a visit, claim nonresident status, and export the van when they leave the country. This applies to government employees as well as civilians.
Non-residents can buy a vehicle without paying duties if they bring it when they enter America. If the motor van does not conform to the safety and emissions requirements, it must be exported within a full year and cannot be sold within that year. Vehicles that meet confirmation may be sold within one year, but duties must be paid at the nearest CBP office before the sale in the United States.
Relevant Statistics
Approximately 1.5 million vehicles are imported into the country each year.
More than 80% of imported motor machines meet the country's safety standards.
On average, a vehicle takes around 30 days to go through the importation process.
The importation of electric motors has increased by over 200% in the past five years.
Over 90% of imported luxury automobiles come from European countries.
General Facts
Importing vehicles means bringing vehicles from one country into another for personal or commercial use.
Different countries have various regulations and requirements for importing vehicles, including emission standards and safety regulations.
Researching and understanding the import laws and duties of the destination country is crucial before importing a vehicle.
Importing vehicles may involve paperwork, such as customs documentation and proof of ownership.
Some countries may impose import taxes or fees on motor machines based on factors like the vehicle's value or age.
Valuable Resources:
U.S Customs
U.S. Customs offers excellent resource material for citizens and international visitors to the United States who need information on importing a motor. For information on Customs requirements and other agencies involved in the process, please see Importing a Motor Vehicle.
Environmental Protection Agency
The following EPE links offer necessary news and other information about required documentation, air pollution testing, and emissions testing necessary for import to the U.S.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A list of the most asked questions from consumers on importing a motor vehicle to the United States.
What is the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966?
The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act created standards for road and vehicle safety. In 1988, it was expanded with the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act. This expansion set regulations for imported vehicles. When your vehicle is being imported, Customs agents will inspect it to make sure that it is compliant.
Does the automobile Information and Cost Savings Act Affect Imports?
Yes, this legislation affects imports because it is aimed at setting fuel economy standards. All cars in the U.S., including your import, must meet these minimum requirements. If it does not, then you may have to pay additional fees.
What Does the EPA Have to Do With Car Imports?
When most people hear “Environmental Protection Agency,” they think about air pollution caused by factories and other industrial hazards. However, the EPA also sets stringent emissions standards for vehicles manufactured and imported into the U.S.
Vehicles must meet these requirements or be modified before being brought into the United States with just a few exceptions.
What If My Car Cannot Be Compliant?
If your vehicle does not meet the EPA’s emission requirements, then it must be modified. When you partner with an independent commercial importer, like the ones that A-1 Auto Transport partners with, the ICP will ensure that those modifications are completed.
Unfortunately, some vehicles cannot be modified. If you attempt to import a vehicle that cannot be modified, Customs will require you to export it back. Alternatively, you can authorize them to dispose of it instead of paying for the export.
What is a “Gas Guzzler” Tax?
The “Gas Guzzler” tax is a fee that is applied to cars with a combined fuel economy rating of less than 22.5 MPG. The fee is charged for vehicles made in the U.S. and imports.
When the law was enacted, SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks were far less popular than they are today. As a result, these vehicles are not subject to the gas guzzler tax no matter how low their fuel economy was.
How Much is the Gas Guzzler Tax?
The gas guzzler tax works on a tiered system. The lower the fuel economy of your car, the higher the tax will be. For example, let’s say that your import is rated between 20.5 and 21.5 combined MPG. In this case, the gas guzzler tax would be $1,300.
Cars with an extremely low combined MPG rating are subject to a more substantial gas guzzler tax. If your import is under 12.5 MPG, then the fee is $7,700. This is the maximum amount that you can be charged under the Energy Tax Act.
If I Buy a Car in Canada, Can I Just Drive It Across the Border?
Not exactly. While you can drive the vehicle from Canada to the United States, you must still comply with certain import regulations.
Before returning to the U.S., you will need the following documents:
Bill of sale displaying the VIN number
Proof of ownership
Temporary license plate
Canadian insurance card
You will also need a letter from the manufacturer that proves that the vehicle meets U.S. emissions and safety standards.
Since this letter may take a few weeks to obtain, we recommend requesting it in advance. If you meet the above requirements and drive the car across the border, then you will not pay any tariffs.
What Fees Does the U.S. Charge for Car Imports?
In addition to the actual shipping costs, you will have to pay import fees on your motor. The United States currently charges two types of fees when importing vehicles. These include:
Duties
Also known as tariffs, duties are the import taxes that you must pay when you bring your automobile to the US. Tariffs are imposed on almost all goods being brought into the country, including your car. The duties are applied whether you are a dealer that is importing multiple vehicles or a private owner that is only bringing one car into the country.
Currently, the duty on cars is 2.5% and the tax on motorcycles is 2.4% of the price of the motor. However, there are quite a few exemptions for motorcycles. Trucks are substantially more expensive to import because they have a tariff rate of 25%.
Gas Guzzler Fee
If the car that you are importing has an average combined MPG of less than 22.5, then it will be subject to a gas guzzler tax. This fee does not apply to trucks, SUVs, or minivans. Like the import tariffs, these fees are paid per vehicle that is imported.
How Much Does It Cost to Import a Vehicle?
There are a variety of factors that will impact the cost of importing your automobiles to the US. These include:
Country of Origin
When we’re arranging your import, A-1 Auto Transport will calculate the total distance that the vehicle is being shipped. The further away it will be from the country of origin, the more expensive the transportation services will likely be.
Purchase Price of Motor
U.S. import tariffs are based on the purchase price of the vehicle. For example, let’s say that you bought a car for $20,000 and want to import it. The car would be subject to a 2.5% tariff. This means that your import tax will be $500.
Fuel Economy
Cars are also subject to a gas guzzler tax. If your import gets less than 22.5 combined MPG, then you will be charged an additional fee. If the MPG of your import is 22.5 or higher, then you will not have to pay the gas guzzler tax.
Age of Vehicle
Vehicles that are 25 years old or older do not have to comply with U.S. auto regulations. This means that you will not have to pay for any modifications. The 25-year rule can reduce your overall import costs.
Modifications
If your automobile does not meet U.S. emissions regulations and it is less than 25 years old, then it will have to be modified before import. A-1 Auto Transport can facilitate this with our partner carriers, but it will increase the overall cost of your import services.
Why Do People Import Cars?
There are many possible reasons why someone would want to import a vehicle to the United States. The three most common are that they want to:
Relocate to the U.S.
Whether you are a U.S. citizen that has been living overseas or you are coming to the country for the first time, you may want to bring your car with you.
Thanks to A-1 Auto Transport, importing your vehicle when you make your move to the USA is simple and efficient. We offer a seamless import process so that you do not have to purchase a new vehicle when you arrive.
Save Money
While most vehicles are available domestically, some cars can be purchased cheaper overseas, even after you account for import and shipping fees. Savvy car buyers may choose to order vehicles from a foreign country like Japan and utilize A-1 Auto Transport to facilitate the import process.
Acquire a Rare or Unique Vehicle
One of the most popular reasons for importing vehicles is to acquire a rare car that cannot be purchased domestically. Exotic brands like Porsche, Alfa Romeo, and Ferrari are a few examples of vehicles that are sometimes easier to purchase overseas and import to the U.S.
What Option is Cheapest for Importing My Car?
If you are looking for the absolute cheapest way to import your vehicle to the United States, then we recommend RoRo Transport. Despite its affordability, this method is used to import thousands of vehicles every year without issue. However, it does not offer as much protection as container shipping.
If you are importing a rare or classic car, then you may want to consider the container method.
What is RoRo Transport?
RoRo or roll-on/roll-off transport involves driving your motor onto the ocean vessel at the export location. The vehicle will be secured to the deck of the ship. When it arrives, staff will drive the carrier off of the ship and turn it over to you.
RoRo is affordable, but your automobile will be exposed to the elements during shipping. This includes ocean water and any inclement weather that the ocean vessel encounters. For this reason, RoRo transport may not be the best choice for high-end vehicles.
What is Container Shipping?
As the name implies, this method involves securing your car into a steel shipping container. While container shipping is the most secure method for importing your vehicle, it is a bit more costly. This is because container shipping takes up more space on the transport vessel and creates additional work for the carrier.
What is the 25-Year Rule?
The 25-year rule allows you to import vehicles that were manufactured at least 25 years ago without having to adhere to U.S. vehicle regulations. This means that you do not have to pay for any modifications to the car, which can drastically reduce the cost of intaking the motorcar.
What is the Safest Way to Import My Car?
The most secure method for importing your car is container shipping. This option protects it from ocean water and the elements. Generally, we recommend container shipping when you’ll be importing rare, classic, or exotic cars.
Can I Import Cars from Anywhere?
A-1 Auto Transport can facilitate car imports from virtually anywhere, with just a few exceptions. There are certain countries that cannot be involved with the import process. These include:
Afghanistan
Iran
Cuba
Yugoslavia
Iraq
North Korea
Libya
Serbia
If the vehicle was manufactured in or originated from any of the above nations, then it cannot be imported into the U.S.
How Do I Prepare My Car for Import?
If you want the import process to go smoothly, we recommend that you:
Clean the Interior
Cleaning out the interior of your car makes it easier for inspectors to do their job. In addition, it will be nice to have a clean vehicle waiting for you once it clears Customs.
Clean the Exterior
You should also thoroughly clean the exterior of your car. Once you have removed any dirt and debris, take detailed photographs of the car. This is an important step so that you can check for any damage when your car arrives in the United States.
Gather Necessary Paperwork
Make sure that you have all paperwork with you when you drop your car off at the export facility. This includes proof of ownership and the bill of lading. If you are bringing the vehicle from Canada, you will also need insurance.
Remove All Property from the Vehicle
You cannot store property in the trunk or passenger compartment of your vehicle. Doing so is illegal and can make the carrier subject to fines. These costs will ultimately be passed back onto you, so we suggest removing any personal items from the car.
Why Are Large Trucks More Expensive to Import?
The high tariff on trucks was implemented in the 1960s when several European nations imposed a tax on American chickens. The 25% truck tax has remained in place due to lobbying from the “Big Three” truck manufacturers.
Ford, Dodge, and GM benefit from the import tariff because they are able to keep prices higher than foreign truck makers. Unfortunately, this makes it more costly for you to import a truck to the United States.
Are There Any Import Discounts Available?
A-1 Auto Transport offers several discount opportunities. These include discounts for:
Veterans
Students
Seniors
Seasonal discounts
However, our cost-saving options only apply to the shipping fees of our carriers. You will still have to pay the import tariff and the gas guzzler tax (if applicable).
Can I Import My Vehicle Without Paying Duties?
There are a few exemptions that may allow you to import your car without paying tariffs. You may be eligible if you are:
A Member of the Armed Forces
Military personnel and government employees who are returning to the U.S. after an extended overseas assignment are allowed to bring wheels with them.
The motorcar must have been purchased internationally before the owner departs to the United States. In other words, the person cannot return to the U.S. and then purchase a vehicle for import without paying duties.
Generally, the duty assignment must last 140 days or more. Navy personnel are eligible after 120 days or more of extended duty.
A Non-Resident
If you are a non-resident that is entering the U.S., you can bring a motorcar with you without paying duties.
The auto must be exported within 12 months if it does not conform to safety and emissions requirements. When using this exemption, you are prohibited from selling the auto for one year. Duties must be paid before you can sell the vehicle.
Can I Transport Other Property in My Car During Import?
No, you cannot transport additional property or spare parts in your car while it is being imported. This practice is both dangerous and illegal. In addition, it will add weight to your car, which will increase the shipping costs.
Are There Any Vehicles that Are Banned in the United States?
Yes, there are numerous vehicles that cannot be imported to the United States under any circumstances. The following cars are not allowed to enter a U.S. port of entry:
TVR Tuscan: No airbags or anti-lock brakes
Volkswagen Beetle Ultimate Edition: Lacks safety features
Jaguar XJ22OS: Considered too fast and dangerous
Lamborghini Strosek Diablo: Side mirrors and headlights are too small
Morgan LeMans: Lacks most requires safety features
Lotus Elite Series 1: No roof or windows
Nissan Skyline: V-Spec and Gt-T from 1989-2001
Rover Mini Cooper: 1995 version lacks required safety features
The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) makes the final decision on which autos are allowed in the U.S. The cars above are deemed too risky and cannot be brought into the country.
What is the “Show and Display” Rule?
The “Show and Display” rule allows for the import of select European cars that were previously prohibited in the U.S. These cars are exempt from NHTSA’s stringent safety regulations and do not require replacement parts when being imported. However, they must pass EPA emissions rules.
The catch to this rule is that it only applies to incredibly expensive and unique imports. The vehicles cannot be available in the U.S., cannot be replicas and cannot currently be in production.
What Safety Equipment is Required for Imported Cars?
When inspecting your import, the customs agents will be looking for a variety of safety features, such as:
Displays
Anti-lock brakes
Windshield wipers and washing system
Defroster
Electric brake systems
Lamps and reflectors
Anti-theft devices
Seat belts
Door locks
Side impact protection
Flame-resistant interior
Fuel components
These are just some of the features required by NHTSA and the EPA. If your vehicle is not compliant, then it cannot be imported into the U.S. unless it qualifies for one of the exceptions outlined above.
Is A-1 Auto Transport Experienced with Importing Vehicles?
Yes, A-1 Auto Transport works with highly qualified carriers that have extensive knowledge of the import process. Our partners have imported thousands of vehicles and can provide you with a safe and efficient import process.
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Joe Webster always knew the auto transport industry would be a great career option. And with decades of experience, Joe is now an established consultant for A1 Auto Transport.
Joe was born in Santa Cruz, California. During high school, Joe worked as a mechanic; a job continued to work part-time during his bachelor's degree.
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Donald West
Seamless Import Experience from Washington D.C.
★★★★★
I had an incredible experience importing my vehicle into the USA. The service was smooth from start to finish. The team provided clear instructions and ensured my car arrived safely in Washington, D.C. I was impressed by the efficiency and professionalism every step of the way. Highly recommend them to anyone looking to import their vehicle!
Greg Rose
Fantastic Service in Los Angeles
★★★★★
Importing my car from abroad to Los Angeles was worry-free thanks to the exceptional service provided. The process was explained in detail, and everything went as planned. The vehicle arrived in perfect condition, and the team ensured a timely and hassle-free delivery. I am beyond satisfied with their service!
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