How to Export New Cars From Spain to the USA

Whether you are a U.S. citizen returning home after living in Spain, or price-conscious consumer who purchased a four-wheel bargain in the Iberian country, exporting a new car from Spain is a straightforward process. You must ensure the car meets U.S. emission standards. You must also clean its undercarriage, arrange its shipping from a Spanish port, pay import duties and file the necessary documentation with U.S. authorities.

Instructions

1

Ensure the car complies with all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards and meets all the strict safety guidelines enforced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA.

2

Fill out a Department of Transport, or DOT, HS-7 Declaration form, which is available from the DOT ports of entry and the NHSTA website. You must also obtain and complete Environmental Protection Agency form 3520-1 that details the vehicle's emissions.

3

Clean the car's undercarriage to ensure the vehicle does not bring unwanted foreign soil, insects or pests. The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires the bottom of imported cars to be steam-cleaned or washed thoroughly before shipment.

4

Organize the sea transportation of your car by contacting a shipping company that specializes in this type of service. Some firms deliver the car to your door; others require you to collect it at the port.

5

Present U.S. Customs officials with the shipper's or carrier's original bill of lading, bill of sale and foreign registration documents. Pay the relevant import duty and any other applicable taxes that may be levied by federal authorities. For example, importers of cars with large engines must pay an additional "gas guzzler" tax.

6

Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state of residence about temporary license plates and the documentation required from Customs to register your vehicle in the United States.