Importing and Texas Registration Notes

Import Process Notes

• Find and buy the truck. Plenty of auction sites/online marketplaces exist. Original example used Cars From Japan
• Pay shipping and shipping insurance. Cars From Japan included this in the initial cost/estimate.
• ISF: file 1 week before loading truck on ship. Original example used easyisf.com
• Truck ships
• Cars From Japan will ask if you want to surrender BOL (Bill of Lading). This allows the shipping company to release the vehicle electronically. Say yes.
• Cars From Japan will mail physical copies of the Bill of Lading, invoices, bill of sale, shipping insurance documents, export certificate, and an English translation of the export certificate.
• You may or may not have to get your own certified English translation stateside for your local title agency.
• Wait. Good time to stock up on vehicle parts for maintenance.
• Notice of Arrival comes from the shipping company. You have to pay their invoice and port fees.
• Customs: send notice of arrival and paid invoice to your port broker or file with customs directly. Original example used easyisf.com again.
• EasyISF sends a final invoice for their fee plus customs fees. Once paid, you get a copy of all customs documents for title registration.
• Most important: get a Delivery Document filled out showing all items paid.
• Contact shipping company to verify fees are paid and the vehicle is released.
• Take delivery document to the port. Some ports might need a TWIC port security card, receipts, or other documents.
• Arrival at port with a 6x12 trailer and Harbor Freight ramps to load up the truck. A gas can and battery jump pack are a good idea too.

Import Cost Example

This does not include maintenance items you may or may not already have had, including fluids, filters, belts, gaskets, drain pans, jack, or jack stands.

Texas Registration