How to Import Vehicles to the USA in 6 Simple Steps

Importing vehicles to the USA is a complex process due to stringent regulations around safety, emissions, and compliance. Understanding these steps ensures a smooth import experience while meeting all U.S. standards.

1. Determine Vehicle Eligibility and Compliance with U.S. Import Laws

Before importing a vehicle into the U.S., it’s essential to confirm it complies with both Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emission standards and the Department of Transportation (DOT) safety standards. Vehicles manufactured abroad rarely meet U.S. regulations unless they were specifically designed for the U.S. market.

• EPA Emission Standards: Imported vehicles must meet strict emission standards based on their manufacturing date and type. For example, gasoline cars made after December 31, 1967, and diesel cars after December 31, 1974, must comply with EPA regulations. Non-conforming vehicles require an Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) to modify the car and ensure compliance.
• DOT Safety Standards: Any car less than 25 years old must meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). If the vehicle does not meet these standards, a Registered Importer (RI) is required to make necessary modifications. Vehicles older than 25 years are exempt from these rules under the “25-Year Rule.”

2. Determine the Cost of Importing a Vehicle

The cost of importing a vehicle into the U.S. involves several factors, including duties, taxes, and bonds. Here’s a breakdown:

• Import Duty: Cars incur a 2.5% duty, trucks 25%, and motorcycles 2.4%. These duties are based on the vehicle’s purchase price.
• DOT Bond: This bond is 1.5 times the car’s dutiable value and is required for non-compliant vehicles.
• Gas Guzzler Tax: Vehicles with poor fuel efficiency, below 22.5 MPG, may be subject to this tax based on their EPA rating.

Additional costs include shipping fees, customs brokerage charges, and insurance. Importers should also budget for potential storage fees if customs clearance is delayed.

3. Prepare the Proper Paperwork

Proper documentation is crucial for the vehicle import process. Below are some of the required documents:

• Bill of Sale and Foreign Registration: Proof of ownership and the vehicle’s registration in its country of origin.
• EPA Forms 3520-1 or 3520-21: Declaration forms for road and off-road vehicles, respectively.
• DOT Form HS-7: This form certifies that the vehicle meets or is exempt from safety and bumper standards.
• Certificate of Conformity: This document certifies that the vehicle complies with EPA emission standards.
• Recall Clearance Letter: If applicable, this letter certifies that any recalls have been addressed.

Ensure all paperwork is complete to avoid delays during customs processing.

4. Prepare the Vehicle for Inspection

Before entering the U.S., vehicles must undergo thorough inspections to ensure compliance with all safety and environmental regulations. This includes cleaning the vehicle, especially the undercarriage, to prevent the introduction of foreign soil or pests. Steam-cleaning the car is recommended before shipping.

Once the vehicle arrives, it will be inspected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If it passes, it will be cleared for entry; otherwise, modifications may be required.

5. Choose Mode of Transportation

Choosing the right shipping method for your vehicle depends on your location and budget. The main options include:

• Ground Transport: Ideal for vehicles imported from neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico, you can drive or transport the car by truck across the border.
• Ocean Freight: The most common method for cars coming from Europe or Asia, typically using Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) shipping. The shipment is cleared at the first port of entry.
• Air Freight: The fastest but most expensive method, used for urgent shipments.

Decide which transportation option best suits your needs based on the location of the vehicle and your budget.

6. Arrange Plates and Registration

After the vehicle clears customs, contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to obtain temporary plates and initiate the registration process. Each state has its own documentation requirements for registration, so it’s essential to check with the DMV for any additional paperwork.

Temporary Vehicle Imports

Some vehicles can enter the U.S. on a temporary basis without needing to meet full compliance standards. These scenarios include:

• Non-Resident Importers: Vehicles can be imported for up to one year but must be exported afterward. The vehicle cannot be sold in the U.S. during that time.
• Vehicles for Research, Racing, or Demonstration: These imports are allowed under strict conditions, such as not being used on public roads.
• Diplomats or Armed Forces: Foreign diplomats and military members may temporarily import vehicles, but they must be exported at the end of their service.

The 25-Year Rule for Classic Cars

Under the 25-Year Rule, vehicles that are 25 years old or older can be imported without needing to meet FMVSS requirements. This rule allows classic car enthusiasts and collectors to bring vintage cars into the U.S. without undergoing extensive modifications.

It’s crucial to remember that this rule applies to the manufacturing date of the vehicle, not the model year. Importers should still follow customs and state-specific guidelines to ensure smooth entry.

Substantially Similar Clause

The Substantially Similar Clause allows vehicles that are nearly identical to U.S.-certified models to bypass some of the extensive testing and certification. If a foreign-made car shares key features with a U.S. model, it can streamline the importation process. However, importers should confirm that the car meets other compliance standards and be aware of varying interpretations of the clause.

Where the U.S. Imports Vehicles From

As of 2021, the top countries from which the U.S. imports cars include:

• Mexico
• Japan
• Canada
• South Korea
• Germany

These countries account for the majority of foreign vehicles on U.S. roads due to their established export systems and compliance with U.S. standards.

By following these six steps and ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations, importing a car to the U.S. can be a manageable process. Proper planning and understanding of the rules will help streamline your experience.