How to Import Used Vehicles

You are in your bedroom when you hear the phone ringing. It's your husband's great aunt. She has just treated herself to a black Maybach, and she knows that you and her great nephew could use another car, especially with you guys expecting your third baby in five months. Her old car has no extra payments and she is going to take care of the insurance. One thing: The car is in Germany.

1. Look up all the rules and regulations for both the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Customs. This will be a first major step in making sure the vehicle is able to pass all emission tests. If this car is a gift to you, ask the person who was the former owner if all the particulars have been handled. For more info on what to look for, check out Import/Export help, a source that gives information on what to expect when getting cars from different countries.


2. Have all the information EPA and U.S. Customs needs ready for asking: the year the car was manufactured, the year of the car model, the actual make and model, proof of compliance with U.S. emissions, the best kind of fuel for this car and whether it comes with a catalytic converter. All imported used trucks must have documentation of gross weight.


3. Get a full understanding of federal regulations. The federal government wants to make sure that any person or thing that touches American soil can fit into U.S. standards, this includes imported cars. Was the manufacturer compliant with U.S. emissions and did they place an English language label on the engine compartment. The less the car has been tampered with, altered or modified, the better chances it has to coming without any excessive preventions.


4. Be prepared to make any necessary repairs to bring the vehicle into compliance. Vehicles that need repairs of any sort will not pass U.S. emissions requirements. Also, be prepared to spend a good sum of money: U.S. Customs require that you post a bond that is equal to the value of the car. After 120 days, if the car isn't repaired, the bond isn't paid, nor has the car been reported to U.S. customs, the car can be impounded and penalties can follow.


5. Complete the paperwork. U.S. Customs requires that the EPA Standard Form 3520-1 be completed before the car comes into port. Show this form when you're about to pick up the car. In the proper section, write out the code "B" if car is okay and "F" if car needs some work.


6. Have all necessary paperwork handy. This would include the original carrier's bill of lading, the foreign registration, a bill of sale and all documentation that is connected to the car. Don't forget to complete an HS-7 for the Department of Transportation.