Shipping cars from the UK to America

[elmcitymaven 9,712]

We have two cars (a 1971 Triumph Spitfire and a 1980 MGBGT) in storage in the UK that we have always intended to ship over here to Connecticut. Finally our lives have settled down sufficiently to get our ducks in a row to get them over here. I know that it is possible to have these follow as my UKC husband's personal possessions, and I *think* they are duty-free because he is an immigrant. The chap that stores the cars is an experienced exporter, but he has never had to deal with a UKC moving to America so he's unsure what the protocol is in this situation.

Has anyone here done this? I think there's a time limit for this -- like a year after his entry? Is there a limit on the number of cars we can import?

Selling the cars in the UK is NOT an option -- we have already had to sell several much-loved vehicles over there before our departure and these are the two guys who are coming over. Any ideas welcome!

[YuAndDan 153]

A Good Read:

http://www.foreignborn.com/visas_imm/enter...tingyourcar.htm

http://www.buyclassiccars.com/import.asp

Edited November 21, 2007 by YuAndDan

[elmcitymaven 9,712]

Thanks! Looks like we're just looking at the emissions standards then. As our storage guy is familiar with getting Brit cars to Yanks, I'm sure he can hold our hand on this. I'll pass the links to my husband.

[YuAndDan 153]

Thanks! Looks like we're just looking at the emissions standards then. As our storage guy is familiar with getting Brit cars to Yanks, I'm sure he can hold our hand on this. I'll pass the links to my husband.

Emissions standards can vary by state. In NY only cars newer than 25 Years are tested, older than that and they are considered to be antique. Check with your state.

I have a 1976 Cosworth that I know does not pass emissions standards, but since it is over 25 years old and is registered as a historic car it does not need to be tested.

[elmcitymaven 9,712]

The Spitfire will be 37 in a month, and the MGB will be 28. Connecticut has quite relaxed standards for cars over 25 years; the real questions will be whether the MGB will need a catalytic converter fitted and whether the safety standard is up to snuff.