Hi All, I'm wondering if anyone knows how hard it is to import a "classic" Ferrari (say from the mid 1980's) into the U.S.? I have looked on-line, found a few resources talking about the rules and regs, but I'm interested in hearing from people who might have actually done it. A big pain, or a simple form and a tax? From what I can tell, if the car is over 25 years old, it's very easy, but I'm looking for something a little newer and have a line on something. It won't make the 25 year cut-off. Thanks! Birdman
There are a number of threads on this in the past year...check the archives...if you still have questions, hit me up. I imported a 2001 BMW 540ia M-Sport a year ago.... Not a big deal, if you do your homework. If you are not going to personally drive it across yourself, or want to go to the necessary hoops (not many really), then you can use a "registered importer" to handle the process for you. I'm cheap, did it myself...no big deal. The toughest part for an older car, is getting the documentation proving the car meets the epa/dot specs for the year it was manufactured. For newer cars this is easy to get from the manufacturer (usually) they will provide a written document describing your car by VIN, stating that it meets the same EPA/DOT specs as the USA version for that model year. A registered importer can be very valuable in getting you this documentation, that my be difficult or impossible to get for an older car that does not yet meet the 25 year exemption.
I did last year as well for a 2003 Honda Odyssey. I paid 25600 with all taxes and registration. Approx 32000 in WA. I will help with any details on how to do this painlessly also. To get the certification from the Manufactures is difficult as most don't like you sidestepping their US dealer network. Use an importer. I used Orca Auto Sales and would recommend them again. They are next to the Vancouver Airport. PM me and I'll give more details as this would take all day for me to post all the details.
I broght in a 89 328 a couple of years ago and it was pretty easy, THey require 2.5% DUTY TAX a letter from FNA stating its compliance even though the plate is on the car. It all has to be handled by a customs broker from Canada all in all once i got the right paperwork it took about 6 hours from customs to inspect the car and approve it. Wade www.fortunemotors.com
