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How to Import Project Cars

Importing a used car into the U.S. from a foreign country can be a daunting challenge depending on the make, model and year of the vehicle. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) strictly enforces requirements based on emissions standards. Only "U.S. version" cars manufactured after the 1970s can be imported without encountering expensive requirements for modifying the vehicle to meet the standard. Consequently, importing project cars will often be expensive simply because they are project cars that, by definition, need work.

Instructions

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  Provide complete documentation. You must present EPA and U.S. Customs with required information that includes the car's year of manufacture, make and model and model year. You must also demonstrate compliance with EPA emissions requirements, the type of fuel the car uses and whether it was manufactured with or without a catalytic converter. If it's a truck, you must also provide its gross weight.
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  Be prepared to deal with significant costs if you are importing a car that does not meet EPA standards. This includes vehicles that have been modified or altered, or ones that pre-date the U.S. version standard. Either one can be legally imported, but you will be required to complete all modifications necessary to bring the vehicle into EPA compliance. As a result, you will be required to post a U.S. Customs bond that equals or exceeds the value of the vehicle. You will have 120 days to complete the work and report it to U.S. Customs. If you fail, U.S. Customs can impose penalties or even seize the car.
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  Submit a completed EPA Standard Form 3520-1 to U.S. Customs. The form is available online from EPA. Produce the document at the time your car enters its U.S. port. If your vehicle complies with EPA requirements, declare code "B." If it requires work to comply, declare code "F."
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  Present other required paperwork. In addition to your EPA/U.S. Customs form, you'll need a bill of sale, bill of lading, the car's foreign registration and any other records on the car that exist according to Import Export Help (IEH). You must also complete and file form HS-7 with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
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  Take advantage of all official resources. For more information, get a copy of a pair of U.S. government publications -- "Customs Hints for Visitors Visiting the United States (Contains Nonresidents Customs Regulations)" and "Know Before You Go (Contains Hints For Returning U.S.A. Residents Regarding Customs)." Free copies are available from U.S. Customs. Call 202-564-9240. IEH also recommends the definitive document on importing cars, "The Automotive Imports Fact Manual" from EPA .

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