Qualitex Trading – Affordable Japanese Used Cars for Sale & Worldwide Shipping

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.

Special circumstances: Nonresidents may import a vehicle temporarily for up to one year.
Racing vehicles and vehicles for special purposes can be temporarily imported with prior written approval from DOT.

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