The 25-year rule
When a JDM car can come in.
Cars built for other markets, whether Japan, Australia, the UK or Europe, weren't made to U.S. safety and emissions standards. U.S. law lets them in once they're old enough to count as classics.
The short version
- Safety (NHTSA): a car at least 25 years old, counted to the month it was built, is exempt from U.S. safety standards
- Emissions (EPA): a car at least 21 years old in its original configuration is exempt from U.S. emissions standards
- In practice, the 25-year mark is the one that decides when a car built for another market can be imported and registered
- Newer cars can only be imported in limited cases, such as models built to U.S. standards
We check the build date of every car before you buy. A car that's a few months short of 25 years can usually be bought now and shipped once it qualifies.
Paperwork
What the car needs.
Export & ownership papers
Japan's export certificate, the UK V5C logbook, Germany's Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil II, or the registration papers from Australia, New Zealand or Canada, translated into English where needed.
Bill of lading
The shipping line's receipt for the car. It is needed for the customs entry and many states ask for it.
Entry & release
The customs entry (CBP Form 7501), the ISF for ocean shipments, and the safety and emissions forms (NHTSA HS-7 and EPA 3520-1).
Title & registration
Most states title an imported car from the customs papers, bill of sale and export certificate. Some also ask for an inspection.
Costs
What goes into the price.
We send one full cost before you buy, so you never get a bill you didn't expect.
- The car's price at auction or from the seller
- Our service fee
- Inland transport, export paperwork and port fees in the country of origin
- Ocean freight and optional marine insurance
- U.S. import duty, customs fees and the customs broker
- Port fees and delivery to your door
Import duties and extra tariffs on vehicles have changed several times recently. We quote the rates in effect when your car is entered, through our sister company Your Customs Brokers.
Ready when you are.
Tell us the car you want. We'll tell you what it takes to get it to you.