United States Import Regulations

Year Restriction

• • Vehicles must be more than 25 years old to be eligible for import under relaxed regulations.
• • Vehicles less than 25 years old are subject to strict EPA and DOT regulations and may require modification and certification for compliance.

Destination Ports & Shipping

• • Destination ports: Los Angeles, Long Beach.
• • Time of shipment: 9-18 days (RORO).
• • Vessel schedule: Weekly.
• • Shipping line: Atlantic Container Line.

Inspection

• • No inspection required before shipment.
• • Inspection occurs at the port of entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for compliance with emissions, safety standards, and bumper standards.

Import Rules & Regulations

• • Left/Right-hand drive vehicles: Both LHD and RHD vehicles are permitted for import.
• • RHD compliance: RHD vehicles must comply with DOT safety, bumper, and emission compliance requirements; if not, modifications are required before registration.
• • General compliance: Imported vehicles must meet U.S. safety, emission, and bumper standards; vehicles manufactured outside the U.S. likely do not meet all required standards and may need modifications.
• • Prior arrangements: Vehicle must be arranged for shipping with a shipper or carrier; vehicle must clear U.S. Customs at the first port of entry unless otherwise arranged.
• • Exemptions: Non-resident U.S. citizens and military personnel returning from abroad may import vehicles duty-free under certain conditions.
• • Vehicles over 21 years old (classic cars) are exempt from EPA emission regulations and can be imported without modifications.

Import Duties & Taxes

• • Automobiles: 2.5% of the vehicle value.
• • Trucks: 25%.
• • Motorcycles: Free or 2.4% (depending on the type).
• • Gas guzzler tax: Vehicles may be subject to a gas-guzzler tax depending on fuel efficiency; federal tax applies as specified by Section 4064 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Required Documents

• • Bill of Lading from the shipping company.
• • Invoice (in English) providing proof of purchase.
• • Car title or export certificate.
• • Import Security Filing (ISF) form.
• • EPA Form 3520-1: declaration of emissions standards.
• • DOT Form HS-7: declaration of safety compliance.
• • Export certificate (with English translation).

Inspection and Modification

• • Vehicles not meeting U.S. standards must be modified by a registered importer (RI) before being allowed for registration.
• • Independent Commercial Importers (ICI) ensure the vehicle meets required standards; non-conforming vehicles must go through an ICI to bring them into compliance with EPA and DOT standards.