How to import a car from China to USA?

Question

i want to import (for personal use only) either (2 of each) a Cherry "QQ" or a Wuling "min-van" by purchasing cash in China, shipping by boat, in a metal box, to San Francisco, then meeting the arrival and driving it to Texas where it will be registered

....what customs issues (taxes, tarrifs, duties) and formalities will be raised? and how can i register in Texas, from the port in San Francisco?

Answer 1

As far as I know you can't legally import any new foreign car into the USA that has not been previously crash tested by the US government. Obviously the vehicles in question have not been crashed tested by the US government.

It might be possible to import these vehicles if they are purchased used but you will have to check with US Customs for that.

btw...you can expect the total cost of getting the car here (shipping, taxes, customs, etc) to be almost as much as you paid for the car, possibly higher.

Answer 2

Importing from Japan to USA is probably a better option as Japanese cars (because of their quality-conscious image and adherence to standards) are easier to pass through US customs on emissions and documentation.

I know this because my husband imports Japanese cars from Japan to Seattle in the US and has been successful in importing a Toyota Supra, Mazda FX-7 and a Mitsubishi Delica (minivan) from auctions in Japan.

The success rate of importing a Japanese car to the US is much higher than that of a Chinese import here. If this option appeals to you then you can try the site below for auction listings and methods for US import. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Try US CUSTOMS for further Information.

I think it's USCUSTOMS.GOV.

Answer 4

Unless the car meets US safety standards, you can't register it and may have problems bringing it in.