PNW_Steve wrote:
Grit dog wrote:
Steve, I've been attempting to do the same thing with a Dodge car, few years newer and have yet to pull the trigger as my research and talking to several BP locations tell me that I must have not only the EPA compliance but the NHTSA compliance sticker OR a mfg letter stating compliance to go with the safety equipment form. Chrysler actually faxed ( who does that anymore?) back today saying they wouldn't provide the letter and must use a registered importer.
I've spent hrs trying to make this work and seem to know the req inside and out and this is the only hang up doing it privately without importer.
This is awesome news. PM ing you for your advice if you can help me!
I read the same. When I called the CBP office at the border crossing where I intended to cross. They told me all that I needed was the purchase documentation. I was skeptical so I found & printed the appropriate docs from DOT & EPA and had them in hand.
I did also read somewhere that the NTSB had determined that vehicles manufactured in North America for sale in both US & Canada (like models sold in both countries) were considered to ALL comply. I looked for that so that I could give you the link. Unfortunately I cannot find it again.
The key points that CBP looked at were:
-Country of manufacture
-Proper purchase docs
-EPA compliance
-Weight (MX manufactured pickups are duty free if under a certain weight)
As it turned out, I did not have to fill out any paper work. The CBP officer inspected the truck and filled out a single form. He stamped it and sent me on my way.
When I went to register the truck (Washington State) the folks at the licensing place were obviously familiar with dealing with Canadian purchased vehicles.
Where was the car you are dealing with manufactured? Check the first digit of the VIN:
1: UNITED STATES
2: CANADA
3: MEXICO
4: UNITED STATES
5: UNITED STATES
Steve, yes I am intimately familiar now as well with the process and forms I think.
Question, you mention CBP, Canadian Border Patrol?, because I've been dealing with the US Border Agents on the phone.
As told to me, I need both EPA and NHTSA forms and even though there is a blanket acceptance I believe for the vehicle year of mfg, the form for NHTSA compliance requires a letter from the mfg stating the same compliance. 2008 Dodge Challenger, made in Canada.
You are correct on the US/Canada compliance thing on newer vehicles and this vehicle falls under the blanket acceptance if Import Eligibility Number VSA-80.
This is very encouraging, however, not sure I will get the same treatment at the US Border crossing. What border crossing did you go through?
Really confused now, as 3 different border crossings told me the same thing as to needing both EPA and NHTSA forms and documentation.
The one thing that may differ, does you Ram have a sticker stating that the safety standards comply with FMVSS Federal Motor vehicle safety standards? This 08 CHallenger does not show FMVSS compliance, rather only Canadian compliance, even though I'm certain it complies with both.
The "Federal" safety label is the get out of jail free card as Im told by border agents.
