How to Import a Car to the US: A Simple, Step‑by‑Step Guide

Thinking about bringing a car from overseas to the United States? It can feel like a maze, but the process breaks down into a few clear steps. Below you’ll find the basics—what paperwork you need, how much you’ll pay, and the rules that keep your ride street‑legal.

Know the Legal Requirements Before You Ship

The first thing to sort out is whether your vehicle meets US standards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set strict rules on safety and emissions. If the car wasn’t originally built for the US market, you’ll need a HS‑7 form from NHTSA and an EPA Form 3520‑1 to prove it complies or can be modified.

Many importers choose the “Show‑and‑Tell” route: they ship the car, then get it inspected and modified after arrival. This works for classic or low‑volume cars, but you’ll still pay the compliance fees and any needed changes.

Calculate Duties, Taxes, and Fees

Customs duties are 2.5% of the vehicle’s value if it’s a standard passenger car. Trucks, motorcycles, and kits have different rates. Add the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), usually 0.3464% of the declared value, and a Harbor Maintenance Fee (about 0.125%). Don’t forget state sales tax—each state sets its own rate, and you’ll pay it when you register the car.

A quick example: a $30,000 car imported from Japan would owe $750 in duty, $104 in MPF, $38 in harbor fees, plus whatever your state taxes are. Knowing these numbers ahead of time helps you avoid cash‑flow shocks.

Choose a Reliable Shipping Method

The two main ways to move a vehicle are container shipping and Roll‑On/Roll‑Off (RoRo). Containers protect the car from weather and theft but cost more. RoRo is cheaper and faster; the car simply drives onto the ship and off at the destination port.

Pick a port that’s convenient for you. Los Angeles, New York, and Miami handle the bulk of US auto imports, so you’ll find plenty of carriers and competitive rates there.

Prepare the Essential Paperwork

When the ship arrives, you’ll need these documents at customs:

• Bill of Lading (provided by the carrier)
• Invoice or purchase receipt showing the vehicle’s price
• HS‑7 and EPA Form 3520‑1 (or proof of compliance)
• Proof of ownership, such as a title or registration from the country of export
• Customs bond (often arranged by your customs broker)

Hiring a licensed customs broker can smooth out this part. They’ll file the entry, calculate duties, and make sure all forms are correct.

Register and Insure Your Imported Car

After customs clearance, you must get a US title and registration in your state. This usually means passing a safety inspection and an emissions test (if applicable). Once you have the title, shop for insurance—many companies treat imported cars like any other vehicle, but some may ask for extra documentation.

Keep copies of every form, receipt, and compliance certificate. If you ever decide to sell the car, those papers prove the vehicle is legally imported and can boost its resale value.

Tips to Save Time and Money

Plan ahead. Research your target state’s specific rules—some states have stricter emissions standards.

Bundle services. Some shipping companies also offer customs brokerage and pre‑delivery inspections, which can cut down on separate fees.

Consider a “temporal import.” If you only need the car for a short stay (like a race or a show), a temporary import permit can waive duties, but you must re‑export it within a set period.

Importing a car isn’t a mystery once you break it into steps. Follow the checklist, keep good records, and you’ll be behind the wheel of your overseas ride without a hitch.