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We have experts on this forum. No doubt about it.

I'm looking at a truck manufactured in Brazil for import into the US. There are several options older than 25 years, but I'd anticipate the vehicle to have a build date of 1985 or newer.

What are the obvious problematic barriers one should consider before going down this route?

The fact that it's South America would bother me. The scams and shady people involved all the way up the chain could be an issue. I'd only go with very trusted and proven people/companies who usually deal with the exact area of where your exporting from.

Thanks Vince! Understood. I have coworkers in Brazil to handle the vehicle selection/transaction. The shipping is risky - so attention to reputable shipper.

Is there import duty to be aware of? It appears trucks are 25% value!? while cars are 2.5%? Is that true? Issues with gas mileage? Any emissions/safety considerations for +25 year old vehicle importation?

This comes up on the G wagon forums all the time.
I am in Canada and our rule is 15 years
In the US EPA is 21 years and DOT is 25 years.
So if 25 years or older it can come into the US with no issues as it is older than both care about. No emission tests or anything as long as it is 25 years or older.
Needs to "technically" have the original motor (EPA)
As for duty - commercial trucks are 25% so try to do it as an SUV if possible (I am not sure about a pickup truck) to get the 2.5% rate.

Google will be your friend on import and a quick call to an import broker will confirm all the above

True above.

Just let your agent handle the rest and quoting final fees/prices and be perfectly clear and accurate on vehicle specs, title details, etc.. Make copies of everything and don't let original paperwork get lost or sent without being certified, etc.

Do not use anyone who doesn't have a clear, long established record of exporting in that region.

I am going to echo what Vince just said.

Get an agent who handles imports and knows the rules and the paperwork required. Use them, don't do it on your own.

Be prepared for the ship to be delayed more than once, the expected import date is target, but it will often slide. Mine was way late compared to the original import date.

Thanks all.


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