How to Import Automotive Parts

If you drive a Lexus, Mercedes, Jaguar, BMW or any other imported vehicle, there will come a time when something breaks on it. At this point, you must find the necessary parts to repair the problem. This requires you importing the parts from the manufacturer, which can take some time.

1. Go to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration to determine if the part must meet the FMVSS specifications. If you find that the part you need is on the list, import it from the manufacturer. This ensures that the parts are certified by the company.


2. Go to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website to identify the closest port to your location. If it is a smaller part, you can have it send through the postal service.


3. Contact the manufacturer to order the part. Let the manufacturer know the port you want to part shipped to or if you want it shipped via the mail. Make sure you obtain the sales receipt.


4. Go to Customs. Bring your sales receipt with you and present it.


5. Give Customs the original bill of landing. This is because of the Federal Motor Vehicle Protection Standards.


6. Fill out the appropriate paperwork from the Environmental Protection Agency, more commonly known as the EPA. The form is known as the EPA’s form 3520-1. It is only required if you are importing an engine, because foreign engines do not always follow U.S. emission standards. An Independent Commercial Importer needs to certify the imported engine.


7. Pay the duty and taxes. You may pay duty through personal check, cash, money order, traveler's check or a government check. Some places accept credit cards, but you must contact the location in advance to determine this.


8. Go to the inspections area to pick up your car part.