LET US IMPORT YOUR CAR OR TRUCK INTO THE USA

A VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, is a unique code used to identify individual motor vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and trailers. It typically consists of 17 characters (digits and capital letters) and serves as a fingerprint for a specific vehicle. The VIN is usually found on a metal plate located on the dashboard, near the windshield on the driver’s side, or on the driver’s side door frame. Each section of the VIN provides specific information about the vehicle, such as the manufacturer, model year, engine type, and country of origin.

A letter of conformity for an imported vehicle is a document that confirms the vehicle’s compliance with the safety, environmental, and technical standards of the destination country. When a vehicle is imported from another country, especially if it’s from a different regulatory jurisdiction, the letter of conformity serves as proof that the vehicle meets the required standards for legal operation in the importing country.    The Registered Importer’s responsibility is to ensure the vehicle meets all Safety Standards set forth by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

The EPA plays a role in ensuring that vehicles brought into the United States comply with environmental standards, especially concerning emissions. The EPA requires imported vehicles to meet specific emissions standards to be legally operated in the country.

An HS-7 form, also known as the Declaration Form for Importation of Motor Vehicles and Motor Vehicle Equipment Subject to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety, Bumper, and Theft Prevention Standards, is a document required by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency for importing vehicles into the United States. The HS-7 form is used to declare compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) and to provide information about the vehicle being imported.

TPMS stands for Tire Pressure Monitoring System. It is a technology designed to monitor the air pressure inside a vehicle’s tires and alert the driver if the pressure drops below a certain threshold. The primary purpose of TPMS is to enhance safety, improve fuel efficiency, and prolong tire life by ensuring that tires are properly inflated.  It is required on most vehicles to be imported into the US.               

The 30-day hold period for imported vehicles refers to a regulatory requirement imposed by the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This hold period is specifically for vehicles that have been imported into the United States and are subject to safety-related recalls or modifications.

There are trade agreements in place –While Canada and the United States have a strong trade relationship, there are still tariffs and duties imposed on certain goods, including vehicles. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020, has provisions that affect duty charges on vehicles and automotive parts traded between these countries. Under USMCA, most vehicles and parts that meet certain criteria for regional content are exempt from tariffs.

Vehicles manufactured overseas or from Mexico or Canada and imported into the US are subject to a duty rate of:

• 5% for automobiles
• 25% Mexican Manufactured Trucks (VINS beginning with a 3)

To avoid the 2.5% import duty on automobiles when importing into the United States, you can consider finding a car that meets the following criteria:

• Initially Built in the US: The vehicle should have been originally manufactured in the United States. This means it was produced by an American automaker or a foreign automaker with manufacturing facilities in the US.
• Reimported from the US by the original owner after being sold in the US

No, a vehicle cannot be imported into the US with a salvage or rebuilt title status.

Yes, we can assist in importing a boat.

Customs bonds are purchased when customs documents are issued and they are non-refundable.    Your quote will include the cost of this bond.

The Canadian GST (Goods and Services Tax) is a value-added tax that applies to most goods and services sold or provided in Canada. It is a federal tax administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The GST is also combined with the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) in certain provinces, creating a single tax rate known as the HST.   ASC can administrate the GST refund for US Citizens who have paid GST when the vehicle was purchased.  We can help you get that tax back!

Titling a vehicle in the United States that was imported from Canada involves several steps and requirements. 

ASC is able to offer titling services to wholesale and registered dealers. 

If you are titling yourself you’ll  need to provide customs documents such as the Bill of Sale, Canadian registration documents, and any other paperwork related to the vehicle’s importation such as the DOT Compliance letter, EPA Compliance letter, and the vehicle must go through the customs clearance process. 

It’s important to note that specific requirements and procedures can vary depending on the state where you’re titling the vehicle. It’s recommended to contact your state’s DMV or motor vehicle agency for detailed guidance and to ensure you have all the necessary documentation and comply with local regulations.

Importing a vehicle into the United States involves navigating a complex set of rules, regulations, processes, and costs. Handling the importation process yourself can be challenging and may result in financial losses or complications if not done correctly. Working with experienced import specialists at ASC we can offer many benefits.

Expertise: We have the knowledge and experience to navigate the intricacies of the importation process efficiently and effectively. We understand the regulations, documentation requirements, and procedures involved.

 Cost-Effectiveness: While there are costs associated with hiring import services, the expertise and efficiency they bring can often save you money in the long run. They can help avoid costly mistakes, delays, and penalties that may occur when handling the process independently.

 Hassle-Free Experience: By working with professionals at ASC, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience throughout the importation process. We will handle the logistics, paperwork, customs clearance, and other aspects – everything from start to finish!.

 Compliance and Legal Requirements: ASC ensures that your vehicle meets all legal and regulatory requirements for importation into the US. We obtain necessary certifications, inspections, and documentation to comply with US Customs and Border Protection, EPA, and DOT standards.

 Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle importation is being handled by ASC provides peace of mind. You can trust that your vehicle will be shipped safely, cleared through customs efficiently, and ready for legal use in the US.

ASC offers a convenient and reliable solution for importing your vehicle into the United States without the stress and complications of handling the process.  Call us and we can start the process!