Most Americans own a car, but there is a small portion of the population who what to own different and unique vehicles. When a car owner wants to import a foreign car, they are making a bold personality statement.

Many regulations must be met in order to bring a foreign car into the country. One cannot bring in just any vehicle. U.S. law specifies certain standards that must be met by any car that enters the country. These standards relate to pollution norms, safety norms and a few other conditions. Car manufacturers who manufacture for the U.S. market usually ensure that their products meet all these strict conditions. It is advisable that a prospective buyer compare the car's features with the acceptable U.S. norms. Non-compliance with standards could prohibit the import from taking place. In fact, the U.S. has placed total bans on imports of cars from certain countries, for political reasons as well as safety reasons. Such banned vehicles cannot be compromised under any circumstance, so it is better to steer away from such controversial vehicles when one desires to import a car.

Shipping arrangements for the transportation of the vehicle can be done using the services of a commercial customs broker. This would ensure that the vehicle reaches the most convenient port in the safest way. Unless other arrangements have been made, shipments get cleared at the first port of entry. A commercial broker can also ensure the availability of all essential documents like bill of lading, bill of sale, registration papers, emission certificates and the like. As part of its precautionary measures, U.S. law requires the undercarriage of an imported car to be squeaky clean. This is to minimize the risks of any infection entering the country. Shipping personal belongings or luggage of any sort in the car should be avoided. A complete disclosure of the contents of the car to the customs authorities is imperative.

Some manufacturers import only car parts and then get them assembled in the U.S. upon arrival. This is a different segment of the import market referred to as the import vehicle parts and accessories segment and is subject to its own set of rules and regulations.

A consumer who wants to bring imported cars in the United States has multiple options to achieve this. One can book them online and then approach designated retailers for delivery of the vehicle. Almost all foreign vehicles entering the U.S. are subject to customs duties. A returning U.S. resident bringing in his used vehicle can apply for duty waiver if it complies with certain regulations. The used car market is also an option for anyone wanting to own an imported model at lower prices.