How to Import Diesel Cars Into Illinois

Diesel cars make up a small percentage of all vehicles on U.S. roads and highways.

Currently only three percent of cars in the United States run on diesel fuel. The U.S. automobile industry generally views diesel cars as outdated, as many American car manufacturers strive for greener, cost-efficient fuels. However, diesel vehicles are extremely common in other countries, especially in Europe. Diesel vehicles may be imported into the United States, provided that emissions and safety regulations are met. These regulations are imposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation. Foreign diesel cars can enter Illinois through the Port of Chicago, which is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by inland waterways.

Instructions

1. Contact the diesel car manufacturing company to obtain the vehicle information, including make and model, the manufacturing date and safety and emission specifications.

2. Visit the U.S. International Trade Commission website to acquire a classification number for your shipment. Run a search by entering a description of the diesel vehicles being imported. Choose the appropriate classification number based on the ignition type, size of car and the engine capacity. Keep this number to use for the shipping documents.

3. Go to the U.S. Department of Transportation website to obtain a DOT HS-7 form. Print the form and enter all required information. This form is required by United States Customs to make sure that your cars meet safety standards.

4. Visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website and print out the 3520-1 form. This form certifies that your diesel vehicles comply with federal air pollution regulations. You must also make sure that your vehicles meet Illinois state emissions regulations. Contact the State of Illinois Business Services Office to confirm that you are in compliance.

5. Contact a freight forwarder to schedule your shipment. The Port of Chicago offers a list of companies that provide service from international locations. Tell your freight forwarding company when you would like your vehicles to arrive, select shipping insurance and pay for your shipment.

6. Provide a copy of the DOT HS-7 and EPA 3520-1 forms to the freight forwarding company. These forms will be presented to U.S. Customs officials upon entry. Your freight forwarding company will let you know when your vehicles have been cleared; it generally takes less than a week after arrival to the port of entry.

References

• United States International Trade Comission: Harmonized Tariff Schedule
• Border Center: Importing a Motor Vehicle into the United States
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Form DOT HS-7
• United States Environmental Protection Agency: Form 3520-1
• Bloomberg Businessweek: The 65 mpg Ford the U.S. Can't Have

Resources

• The Port of Chicago
• Import Export Help: Importing Cars
• Illinois.gov: Business