There is no arguing that importing vehicles to the US is a complex task. From the strict import laws, customs and documentation requirements, consumers and businesses alike require guidance and support on car imports. Which is why West Coast Shipping strives to keep the process of importing a car to the US simple and effortless.

For the last decade, we have imported all types vehicles including classic cars, development vehicles, concept cars, Formula 1 and Formula E cars, and rally cars. We arrange door to door shipping using containers and air freight for single cars, fleets, and road rallies. 

We work with US Customs, NHTSA, DOT, EPA, and the DMV to ensure cars and motorcycles are allowed to be imported into the US.

CAR IMPORT SERVICES

• Clearing US customs
• Trucking container from US ports
• Unloading at one of our warehouses
• Short-term & long-term storage
• Delivery to anywhere in the US
• Temporary and permanent imports

How to: Meet Compliance and Import to the US

Tackling EPA and DOT requirements

For cars less than 25 years old, the Environmental Protection Association (EPA) requires that your vehicle meets US emission standards. You can verify if your vehicle meets EPA standards by locating the Vehicle Emissions Label in your vehicle. The label will typically be located under the hood, near in the engine compartment. On a motorcycle it can be found on the frame or in the glove compartment.

If your vehicle is less than 25 years old, it will also have to conform to Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. It includes safety standards, bumper standards, and theft prevention requirements. It is unlikely a car obtained overseas can meet all of these requirements, unless the same vehicle was originally sold in the US as well. Those that are will have a certification label near the driver’s side door of the vehicle from the manufacturer, specifically denoting the vehicle as certified to meet US standards.

If your car does not meet the US car import requirements, the vehicle can only be imported by a registered importer. The car must also be modified into compliance, which can be an expensive and lengthy process.

On a positive note, if your classics or any vehicles are over 25 years old and are also unmodified, then they do not have to comply with DOT or EPA requirements.

Contact us today to import a vehicle to the USA.

The duty rate for vehicles manufactured abroad and imported to the US are as follows:

• 2.5% for automobiles

• 2.4% or free for motorcycles, depending on the number of cylinders

To import a car into the United States, the US Customs and Border Protection will need the following documents:

• original bill of lading

• bill of sale

• Foreign registration

• EPA Form 3520-1

• DOT Form HS-7

OPTIONAL SHIPPING INSURANCE

The cost is calculated from the vehicle's value. Contact us to get an insurance quote.