Import Into The USA

Importing

You may know us for our export services of cars and freight from the USA to any other country. But we also offer importing services as well. We are proud to be an international freight shipping company that specializes in containerized importation services based on our 30 years of experience. There is truly no job that’s too simple or complex for us to handle. Thanks to custom loading methods, we can maximize available space on the ship to ensure the safe import of your commercial freight or car.

We can import any cargo or car from Europe, Australia, New Zealand and many other destinations to the USA. Then, our network of truckers who operate throughout the United States can get your cargo to you, or you can pick it up from the port.  

Get a free quote on importing when you call us at +1.310.324.2100 or fill out our online form. 

We Import Cars Into The USA

Our car import services cover the following tasks: 

  • Clearing Ata Carnet
  • Clearing U.S. Customs
  • Unloading at one of our warehouses
  • Short- and long-term storage
  • Delivery to anywhere in the United States
  • Temporary and permanent imports
  • Re-imports

Mandatory Import Checklist

  • Export Bill of Lading
  • Bill of Sale
  • Registration from country of origin
  • Proof of ownership
  • EPA FORM 3520-1, which shows emissions compliance 
  • DOT FORM HS-7, which shows safety compliance 
  • Manufacturer’s label on engine, which shows emissions requirements have been met 

Vehicle Shipping Into the USA

As your importer, we ensure a flawless process from start to finish. Keep these factors in mind throughout the importing process: 

ANY vehicle being imported to the USA must meet and comply with all current EPA & DOT regulations. A compliance notice from each entity must be presented to U.S. Customs for import approval. Failure to provide such compliance notice will result in additional charges, fines, penalties, and could be subject to legal action from the US government.

Vehicles must comply with the United States EPA & DOT regulations to clear U.S. Customs. Motor vehicles less than 25 years old must comply with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) in order to be imported permanently into the United States. Any vehicles that are older than 25 years old and are also unmodified do not have to comply with the DOT or EPA requirements.

To permanently import a vehicle into the U.S., you must be a U.S. company, citizen, or hold legal status to work and live in the country.

To temporarily import a vehicle into the U.S., the vehicle does not have to conform to U.S. standards, but the vehicle must leave the country within a year. The following are all classified as temporary vehicle imports: race, display, repair, leisure, vacation, exhibition, events.

Importers:

It is required by U.S. law that all requisites are met and are followed prior to shipping to the USA.

ISF must be filed with U.S. customs 72 hours prior to shipping; ISF must be filed under the importer’s name. No exceptions.

Direct Express, Inc. must receive all proper information and documentation from shipper and importer prior to shipping to USA to avoid any possible issues, fines, and/or penalties from U.S. Customs, DOT, EPA, and or any other U.S. government agency.

Non-residents can no longer import private use vehicles into the USA without pre-approval from the EPA in advance of the arrival. The vehicle must have less than ¼ tank of gas.

Our Other Specialty Services

On top of our importing services, we also offer these specialty services:  

  • Car finder 
  • Remote purchase assistance
  • Air freight
  • Commercial cargo shipping

Why Choose Direct Express Inc. For Importing?

We solve problems every day, which is why so many of you trust us for importation of vehicles of all kinds. You need specialized knowledge in order to deliver the right logistical solution based on your needs. That’s why you can depend on us to handle the importation of your vehicle or cargo from other countries to the USA, all backed by precise planning and execution.  

For a free quote on importing, part of our specialty services, complete our online form or call us at +1.310.324.2100.