Importing vehicle from Canada to USA

I've browsed the archives extensively in an effort to find a definitive answer to this question, but am still looking. If you can help, it would be greatly appreciated. Here's the deal:

My wife and I moved to Minnesota July 1 on TN/TD status. We drove our vehicle down (1999 Isuzu Rodeo) on the basis that we would purchase a new vehicle once we got settled.

When I went to trade it in, I was told that I need "Customs Papers" to do the deal.

The question is - what papers do I need and how do I get them? I've heard about 5 different answers, so I'm really hoping somebody who knows EXACTLY what I need to do is reading this.

Thanks,
SLM

Read this: www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/newsroom/p ... ngacar.doc

Not clear in that document but there is no duty if you import a vehicle as personal effects. The main thing you need is the CBP clearance paperwork, without that you can't swap the title for a US one. To get it you have to have the EPA inspection done, CBP will give you a conditional clearance at the border, you get the inspection done, you go to the local CBP office to get the clearance finalized and then you can apply for the title.

I think it is possible to do the whole thing at the local CBP office without going back to the border, have a read of those instructions and go to the local CBP office and ask, I guess.

What does CBP stand for?

Customs and Border Patrol

I have a similar question, but the timing is different. I drove my vehicle across the border into the U.S. on a road trip, and then left it with a friend while I returned to Canada.

Subsequently, I was offered a job interview and returned to the U.S. (via air) on a TN Visa. I would like to register my vehicle in the U.S., and I understand I need a customs stamp. Can I get this stamp at a local CBP office in the U.S. (like the post above), or will it be an issue that my vehicle first entered the U.S. approximately 3 months before my TN Visa was issued? (especially if I look to renew my TN Visa in future, or change to a different Visa status?) Do I need to drive back across the Canadian border and re-enter again? Thanks for any info you can provide.

Hi,

I live in Vancouver, BC and i am heading to the WA border to get my TN visa for 1 year. For now I thought I take my dad's car for 2 weeks. After 2 weeks, I come back to Canada and buy a car here. or buy a car in the States!

Would there be any problem taking his car and stuff? Would i go through the same "import" process Even if i want to used it for 2 weeks? I saw you guys post saying import applies when I take the car for 1 year. I'm just worried they might say "I am lying and I wouldn't return the car or something". Then I have no proof!

If this was doable, for how long would i be able to use his car in the states?
I don' know my situation!

Thanks