Imports of off-road engines, equipment, and vehicles must meet U.S. emissions standards. Applicable imports can include (but aren’t limited to) lawn, garden, or construction equipment, as well as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
Importing Based on Emission Requirements
If your items don’t meet emissions requirements, they can be imported in two circumstances:
- If they’re modified, tested, and certified by an Independent Commercial Importer (ICI).
- If they qualify to be temporarily imported under U.S. Customs bond via an EPA exemption.
If you pursue #2, submit a completed EPA form 3520-21 to CBP along with your entry summary and/or bill of lading. Commercial imports of these items require a formal entry to be submitted to CBP along with a Customs bond. Customs bonds can be obtained through a surety, and you may find a list of approved sureties here.
Things to Remember When Importing Vehicles and Engines
If you are importing these items for personal usage, you may submit an informal entry if applicable, but you’ll still need to turn in a bill of sale and lading (if shipped) and EPA form 3520-21 upon entry.
If your entries are not filed within 15 days of the goods arriving, they will be sent to a General Order warehouse for storage, and will be auctioned off after six months.