Introduction
If you are an enthusiast of off-road vehicles, importing one of the world’s most iconic 4x4s is an exciting idea. Here are main things to consider if you decide to import a Defender: Below is the complete guide to help you navigate the process.
Age of the Vehicle: 25-Year Rule
Some of the most important considerations that any importer has to make when importing a vehicle to the US include the 25-year rule. This rule frees vehicles older than 25 years old from some of the strict DOT and EPA standards. This is excellent news for classic Land Rover Defenders, as many pre-2000 car models can be imported with little regard for meeting today’s stringent safety and emissions requirements.
Choosing the Right Importer
Working through the vehicle shipping companies to check the vehicle is eligible for import. Hiring an import broker is definitely advisable for first-timers. They can always deal with all the paperwork. Check all the federal and state government requirements, and take care of shipping and customs clearance.
Shipping and Insurance
When you prepare the Defender for export, you must transport it to the United States. The transport usually simplifies to either RORO or container sea-shipments. Once transport has been arranged and your Defender is set to arrive in the US, you’ll need:
- The Notice of Arrival
- The Title of Ownership
- Bill of Sale
- EPA and DOT forms
- CBP Entry Summary
Registration of the car, car insurance, and taxes connected with the vehicle.
After the Defender clears customs, you can have it delivered and begin the process of registering the vehicle in New York officially. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Proof of Identity and Address
- Title and Proof of Ownership
- Affidavit of Insurances (one must have insured their car before registering it)
- Customs documents
- Payment of sales tax.
Costs and Timeline
For most Defenders coming from Europe, current lead time to NY is just under 3-weeks door-to-door. A typical port-to-port shipment with delivery in the tri-state area currently costs in the region of $3,500-$4,500.
Conclusion
It is possible to import a Defender into New York if correctly planned. And understand the rules and regulations of the United States. Maintaining the safety and emissions aspects of your vehicle and selecting the appropriate import method, you will have to go through certain inspections and paperwork, ending up on the streets of New York in a Defender in no time.
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