Importing Vehicles into the USA: Ultimate 2025 Guide
Thinking about importing a car into the USA? Whether it's a classic beauty, a modern luxury car, or a salvage deal, the process involves strict U.S. Customs, DOT, and EPA regulations. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from paperwork to shipping and costs—so your vehicle import goes smoothly.
1. 📜 Understand U.S. Regulations
Importing vehicles to the USA involves three key authorities:
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) – Checks emissions compliance.
NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) – Oversees safety standards.
CBP (Customs and Border Protection) – Handles customs clearance and import duties.
Pro Tip: Vehicles 25+ years old are exempt from most EPA and DOT standards, making classic car imports much easier.
2. ✅ Check Vehicle Eligibility
25-Year Rule: Vehicles older than 25 years can bypass U.S. safety and emissions requirements.
Conforming Vehicles: Newer cars need manufacturer proof of compliance.
Non-Conforming Vehicles: May require modification through a Registered Importer (RI) or Independent Commercial Importer (ICI).
3. 📂 Gather Required Documents
Make sure you have:
Bill of Sale & Purchase Invoice
Original Title & Registration
EPA Form 3520-1 (emissions)
DOT Form HS-7 (safety)
Bill of Lading (from shipper)
Photo ID & proof of residency
4. 💰 Calculate Import Costs
Importing isn’t just shipping! Here’s what to expect:
Shipping Fees: $1,000–$3,500 (RoRo vs. container).
Customs Duties: 2.5% (cars), 25% (trucks), 2.4% (motorcycles).
Port & Handling Fees: Varies by location.
Modification Costs: For U.S. compliance, if needed.
5. 🚢 Choose the Right Shipping Method
RoRo (Roll-On/Roll-Off): Affordable for running vehicles.
Container Shipping: Safer for high-value, non-running, or classic vehicles.
6. 🛂 Clear U.S. Customs
Your customs broker or shipping company will submit the paperwork. Customs officers may inspect the vehicle before releasing it.
7. 🏁 Register Your Vehicle
After clearing customs:
Visit your local DMV for inspection.
Pay registration & state taxes.
Get your U.S. plates & title.
8. 🔑 Expert Tips
Work with a trusted shipper – Avoid delays and costly mistakes.
Plan ahead – Check eligibility and compliance early.
Keep all documents handy – Missing paperwork = delays.
Why Choose Royal Shipping Lines?
At Royal Shipping Lines, we make vehicle importing stress-free. From paperwork to safe delivery, we handle every step—so you can enjoy your new car worry-free.
🚀 Ready to import a car to the USA?
Request Your Free Quote Now!