🇺🇸 Importing a Japanese car to United States

25-Year Rule

In 2026, vehicles built in 2001 or earlier qualify. That line moves one year every January — a car that is ineligible today may be legal next year.

Duty: 승용차 2.5%, 픽업트럭 25%(치킨세). 트럭 세율이 열 배다.

Duty origin follows where the car was built, not where it was bought. A German car purchased in Japan is still EU-origin.

How it goes

1. Confirm the build date — the month matters, not just the year.
2. Arrange ocean freight (RoRo or container) to a US port.
3. File EPA Form 3520-1 (code E) and DOT Form HS-7 (box 1) at entry.
4. Clear customs, pay 2.5% duty on the vehicle value plus MPF/HMF.
5. Title and register in your state — requirements vary by state.