The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires imported motorcycles to meet their emission requirements. Guidelines from the Department of Transportation (DOT) require all motorcycles to abide by safety standards. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will require essential import documents for motorcycles to make entry.

Learning how to import a motorcycle to the U.S. is a difficult and highly regulated process. The consequences for not properly following these steps can be harsh. For this reason, it’s extremely important to be fully aware of all the requirements for importing a motorcycle.

This guide will show you how to import a motorcycle into the U.S. while staying in compliance with the CBP, EPA, and DOT.

How to Import a Motorcycle from Another Country One Step At A Time

When buyers are importing a motorcycle from another country, they’ll have to make sure the motorbike conforms to EPA DOT, and CBP standards and regulations. In some cases, regulations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will need to be followed as well.

All of these government agencies have unique requirements that must be met before imported motorcycles can enter the country.

1. EPA Regulations

For a motorcycle to enter the country, importers will need to submit  an EPA Standard Form 3520-1 to the CBP. This document contains information about the vehicle and the port where it will arrive. 

Next, buyers will need to determine if they’re importing their motorcycle permanently or temporarily. They also have to find out if their motorcycle is a U.S. version or non-U.S. version vehicle. A U.S. version vehicle is one that’s manufactured in conformity with EPA emission regulations that are outlined in the Clean Air Act (CAA). 

Proof of CAA conformity for permanent import must include:

• A manufacturer-equipped EPA emissions label on the frame of the motorcycle
• A letter from the U.S. representative of the manufacturer that states the vehicle was made to be a U.S. certified version or was converted to conform to EPA guidelines

A non-U.S. version vehicle can only permanently enter the country under the following circumstances:

• The importing individual must have a written letter of exemption from the EPA
• The importer must be an Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) operating as a private business in the U.S. and holding an EPA certificate of conformity for the motorcycle

If an ICI is bringing the motorcycle into the country, they’ll modify and test the vehicle to ensure it meets the EPA’s emission regulations. Temporary motorcycle imports might be eligible for exemption from EPA regulations. 

There are five distinct situations where this will be permitted. 

• Repair and alteration
• Display
• Testing
• Diplomats 
• Nonresidents

In either of these cases, importers will need written approval for the exemption from the EPA prior to the motorcycle arriving in the country. 

Motorcycles that were originally manufactured as a U.S. version vehicle and haven’t been modified or altered may enter the country without approval or a Customs Bond. However, importers will still need to submit an EPA Form 3520-1 and declare code “B” on the document.

If the U.S. version vehicle was modified or altered, then a bond will be required. Though CBP sets the amount, the EPA will recommend the bond be equal to the current market value of the vehicle. 

The motorcycle also has to undergo restoration to comply with EPA standards it may no longer meet. When submitting the EPA Form 3520-1 for this kind of bike, importers will need to declare code “F”. 

2. DOT Regulations

The DOT, through the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), enforces numerous import regulations for auto parts and vehicles, including motorcycles. For both permanent and temporary imports, the DOT requires buyers to submit a DOT HS-7. 

This document is used to identify the basis of the motorcycle’s entry into the country. The HS-7 has different boxes that give a description of the vehicle and determine if it does or doesn’t abide with certain regulations. Importers simply have to check off the box that applies to their motorcycle.  

The NHTSA has two separate regulations for the permanent importation of these vehicles. One is for motorcycles coming from Canada and the other is for motorcycles coming from countries other than Canada. 

Buyers can permanently import a motorcycle from Canada free of restriction if the vehicle is less than 25 years old and complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). 

To prove compliance, the motorcycle should have an FMVSS certification label close to where the steering post and handlebars intersect.

The certification label should have the following: 

• Motorcycle manufacturer identification
• Month and year of manufacture
• The following statement: “This vehicle conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) in effect on the date of manufacture shown above.”

A motorcycle that complies with Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS), but not with FMVSS, can still be imported as a complying vehicle under the following  circumstances. 

• The motorcycle is imported for personal use, not for resale
• The vehicle isn’t a salvage, repaired salvage, or reconstruction
• The importer has a letter from the motorcycle’s manufacturer that identifies it by the vehicle identification number (VIN) and states it complies with FMVSS

When filling out an HS-7 document that meets these standards, be sure to check off box 2B. If a motorcycle abides with CMVSS, but doesn’t meet these criteria, it can still be imported permanently if it meets some additional requirements.

• The motorcycle hasn’t been salvaged or reconstructed
• The motorcycle is imported by a registered importer (RI) or a person that’s contracted with an RI that will modify the vehicle so it complies with FMVSS after importation
• Is imported with a  bond that’s been underwritten by a certified surety in an amount equivalent to 150 percent of the dutiable value of the motorcycle 

For that last point, the bond must be sent to CBP at the time of importation. This is to ensure the vehicle is brought into conformity with FMVSS within 120 days of entry.

Importing a motorcycle from another country is very similar to importing one from Canada. Buyers will still need:

• An HS-7 document upon importation. 
•  A certification label at the intersection of the steering post and handlebars of the vehicle for motorcycles less than 25 years old

Buyers can speed up the importation process by asking the seller to verify the label is attached to the vehicle in the sales contract. They present this document when submitting their other paperwork to the CBP. 

If a motorcycle doesn’t have a certification label, it can’t be imported as a conforming vehicle. The buyer will need to contract with an RI who can either verify it meets certification requirements, or who can modify the vehicle until it does abide with FMVSS. 

The RI will also post a DOT Conformance Bond that’s equivalent to one and half times the motorcycle’s dutiable value. When the HS-7 is submitted, it must come with the DOT conformance bond and RI contract attached.

NHTSA also requires manufacturers of motorcycles to complete a few requirements when one of their vehicles are imported. 

• Submitting identifying information such as the manufacturer’s name, address, and the products it produces to the FMVSS
• Giving the NHTSA the information required to decipher the VIN
• Submitting a letter to NHTSA that designates a U.S. agent and a letter from the agent accepting the designation if the manufacturer is not located in the U.S.
• Affix to the vehicle a certification label stating it meets FMVSS requirements

A designated U.S. agent is essentially someone in the U.S. that’s qualified to handle the manufacturer’s documents on their behalf. 

Temporary motorcycle imports don’t need to abide by FMVSS if they’re less than 25 years old. That said, an HS-7 will still have to be submitted for the vehicle to make entry. 

If you’re a fan of Japanese vehicles, then read our article on how to import cars from Japan. 

3. CBP Regulations

As we’ve reviewed, the CPB requires importers to submit an EPA Form 3520-1 and the DOT Form HS-7. However, it also requires a number of other documents. 

• Entry Summary Form 7501
• Shipper or carrier original bill of lading
• Foreign registration 

Before a motorcycle makes entry into the U.S., importers will need to show valid proof of ownership for the bikes using the following. 

• Original certificate of title
• Bill of sale

If importers don’t have the original certificate of title, they can use a certified copy of the original. 

4. U.S. Department of Agriculture Regulations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has regulations regarding vehicle imports as well. The USDA requires the undercarriage of imported motorcycles and other vehicles to be free of foreign soil. 

This is done to ensure no foreign pests are accidentally brought into the country. Motorcycles might be less susceptible to having foreign soil attached to them, but importers should still make sure their bike has been cleaned. 

5. Other Required Import Documents

In addition to the documents required by the EPA, DOT, and CBP, importers will need to include additional paperwork that’s part of the standard import process. If these aren’t filed properly, buyers are going to have a hard time clearing customs.

Documents that will be required include:

• Pro forma invoice
• Commercial invoice
• Bill of sale showing VIN
• Foreign registration
• Importer Security Filing

If applicable, importers may also need a Letter of Recall and Conformity from the manufacturer of their motorcycle. 

6. Insure the Shipment

While obtaining insurance isn’t a requirement when importing a motorcycle into the U.S., it’s a good idea to have this level of protection. There are numerous perils facing a motorcycle as it travels from a foreign country to the United States. 

• Damage
• Theft
• Loss 

With insurance, importers will have the financial protection to recover from these types of threats. 

7. Find Your Port of Entry

Before importing a motorcycle into the U.S., buyers should decide on the port their bike will make entry. The CBP has a directory of all the ports along the West and East coast. 

There’s also information on ports in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories and commonwealths. Ideally, importers should pick a port of entry that’s close to where they live. This will increase the speed of delivery. 

If importing multiple bikes or if the final destination is far enough inland, it may be wise to choose a port based on the availability of supportive logistics services capable of handling any domestic shipping needs.

8. Pay Duties and Fees

Motorcycles can have a duty rate up to 2.4 percent. Rates are determined based on the price paid or payable for the vehicle. In some cases, importers can bring their motorcycle into the U.S. duty free. 

Instances where buyers can apply for duty-free treatment includes:

• Importer is in the military or is a civilian employee of the government (some restrictions apply)
• Importer is a nonresident
• The motorcycle is duty free under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)
• The vehicle is being imported after being previously exported

A member of the military or a civilian working for the government who is returning from an assignment to extended duty outside CBP territory can include a vehicle as one of their duty-free personal and household effects. 

This vehicle will still need to conform to applicable regulations. It will also need to have been purchased abroad and be in the owner’s possession before departure. 

Nonresidents can import a motorcycle duty-free if it’s for personal use for up to one year. The vehicle must be imported in conjunction with the owner’s arrival. If the motorcycle doesn’t conform with DOT or EPA standards, it will need to be exported within a year. It’s also forbidden for sale in the United States.

Motorcycles can receive duty-free treatment under USMCA if they meet the automotive goods rule of origin requirements.It must also meet other automotive rules of origin requirements under USMCA, which include: 

• Regional value content (RVC)
• Labor value content (LVS)
• Steel purchasing
• Aluminum purchasing

Motorcycles that were returned within three years of being exported will be duty-free. That said, the value must not have advanced, and no alterations should have been made.  

9. Register the Motorcycle

After the motorcycle has cleared customs, buyers can finally register their vehicle with their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). While DMVs can have extremely long wait times, completing this process is simple and straightforward. 

Regulations for Importing a Classic Motorcycle to USA

Classic motorcycles typically refer to bikes that are 25 years of age or older. Fortunately for importers, the EPA exempts motorcycles that are 21 original production (OP) years or older from CAA requirements. OP years are determined by subtracting the year a motorcycle was built from the year it’s imported 

Besides age, classic bikes will need to meet a few criteria to receive exemption::

• The motorcycle must be in original unmodified condition
• Replacement parts are acceptable if they’re equivalent or newer certified EPA engines and emission control systems
• CBP may ask for proof of age
• When filing the EPA Form 3520-1, importers must declare code “E”

It should be noted that any motorcycle that was made one year prior to the implementation of EPA regulations for their class of vehicle may not receive exemption. 

NHTSA has unique regulations for the importation of vehicles that are 25 OP years or older. Motorcycles this old can be imported without regard to whether it abides with FMVSS guidelines. 

Box 1 on the HS-7 Declaration form should be checked off when importing a bike that’s 25 OP years or older. A label should be permanently affixed to the vehicle by the original manufacturer with the date the motorcycle was built. 

This will establish the age of the motorcycle. If a label isn’t present, importers should have documentation like an invoice that shows when the bike was originally sold. A registration showing the vehicle was registered at least 25 years ago is also acceptable.

Motorcycles that don’t have a label or paperwork proving its age will need a statement from a recognized vehicle history society identifying the age of the bike. 

If you’re trying to import a car or truck, then read our article on how to import vehicles to USA.

How Are Motorcycle Imports Transported?

When importing motorcycles, buyers need to find a reputable international shipping company to help them move their bikes.  These vehicles can be transported overseas or by air. We’ll discuss some of the safest options for each method that importers can use. 

Container Shipping

Importers of motorcycles can have their bike transported within the confines of a cargo container. These giant metal boxes will provide superb protection for the vehicle during transit. 

To keep the motorcycle from bouncing around in the container, they’re lashed in place using points between the floor and walls. A block of wood is typically placed on the front and side of each tire for extra security. 

Motorcycles transported in a container are often covered with thin layers of cardboard that are  secured using clear plastic wrap. This offers cushioning in case the motorcycle becomes insecure and bounces against the container walls. 

Containers are also a great option for protecting bulk shipments. The size of the bike impacts the final packing, but we’ve broken down the average number of bikes that will fit in standard marine containers. 

Marine Shipping Container Motorcycle Load Limits

Container Size	Recommended Number of Motorcycles*
20 ft	8
40 ft	14
45 ft	21

*Based on industry averages

Packing style, securement methods, and bike size will impact these numbers. However, it still serves as a decent guide for planning shipments.

Roll On, Roll Off

Roll on, roll off (RORO) services are another option you can utilize if you’re using ocean transport to import your motorcycle. These vessels are designed to move vehicles of all varieties. 

Rather than being loaded in a container, motorcycles can be driven on and off RORO vessels, hence their name. When on board the boat, the motorcycle is secured in a purpose built rack using tie downs and skids.

International Air Transport

For importers that are in a hurry to receive their motorcycle import, then international air transport is the way to go. This form of shipping is much faster than using a vessel, but it’s also a more expensive option. 

When transported by air, motorcycles are packed in crates designed to air cargo specifications.  Within the crate, bikes are secured in place with straps that are tied to the bottom of the box. Cushioning is put in the empty spaces to help add extra protection to the vehicle.

Door To Door & Port To Port Service

For an additional fee, buyers can schedule the delivery of their motorcycles directly to their front door. Door to door service is a good option for importers that are bringing in a small amount of motorcycles into the country. 

When importing motorcycles in bulk, a more affordable delivery option is port to port. This lets buyers pick up motorcycles at shipping ports or delivery terminals once their bikes are cleared by customs officials.

How Much Does It Cost To Import A Motorcycle?

Given that no import of motorcycles is exactly the same, the cost to bring these goods into the country will vary. That said, it’s possible to get estimates on the expenses associated with purchasing a bike from overseas. We’ve listed the potential costs that importers of motorcycles will have to pay.

Cost of Importing Motorcycles

Import Expenses	Amount
New Motorcycle	$4,000 — $30,000
Duty Rate	Free — 2.4%
Full-Container Load (FCL) Transport	$2,000 — $3,000
RORO Transport	$500 — $1,500
Air Transport	$2,000 — $5,000

Provided by Rumble On, CBP, and Industry Professionals 

Keep in mind, these ranges can be higher or lower depending on the unique details of the shipment. Other factors could also be at play that can add to costs or reduce expenses. Importers of motorcycles should consult with a Licensed Customs Brokers to determine the charges they’ll need to pay. 

Using Incoterms For A Motorcycle Import Business 

Incoterms® are three-letter import trading terms used in international sales for imported goods. These terms outline the transfer of responsibilities for buyers and sellers when it comes to moving the goods overseas. 

Depending on the one that’s decided, importers may be able to save themselves a considerable amount of money on insurance and transportation costs. With the support of a Licensed Customs Broker, buyers will be able to find a term that works best for them and their seller. 

You can also read our article on the best Incoterms® for importers to narrow down the best one for your motorcycle shipment. 

Import the Motorcycle of Your Dreams with Customs Clearance USA

Successfully importing a motorcycle to the United States involves a careful understanding of regulations and a strategic approach. At USA Customs Clearance, we specialize in providing expert guidance and services to make your importation process seamless and efficient.

Our services include:

• Customs Bonds: Ensure compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations by securing a customs bond with USA Customs Clearance.
• Consulting Services: Benefit from our in-depth industry knowledge and insights to navigate complex importation requirements confidently.
• Importer of Record Registration: Simplify the process of becoming an Importer of Record with our streamlined registration services.

If you’re ready to get your motorcycle into the country, then book your consulting session today. You can also call our team at (855) 912-0406 to use one of our many services.