Shipping a car to American Samoa can be exciting, whether you’re relocating, visiting for tourism, or returning a vehicle to the U.S. territory. However, getting your documentation in order is essential to avoid customs delays, fines, or seizure of the vehicle.
American Samoa follows U.S. environmental and safety standards, so the import process requires careful preparation. This guide breaks down all the documents you need and important considerations for a smooth vehicle shipment, helping you work with trusted car shipping companies like us, E&G Elite Logistics. As a BBB-accredited provider, we give reliable and secure vehicle transport.
Why Proper Documentation Is Essential
Before a vehicle arrives in American Samoa, customs officials must verify ownership, safety compliance, and correct valuation. Missing or incorrect documents can cause delays, extra fees, or denial of entry. Proper preparation ensures your car clears customs quickly, saving time and stress during the shipping process.
Documents Needed for Shipping a Car to American Samoa
Shipping a vehicle to American Samoa requires careful preparation of several important documents to ensure smooth customs clearance. These documents prove ownership, verify compliance with U.S. safety and environmental standards, and help avoid delays, fines, or seizure of your vehicle. Preparing all paperwork in advance is key to a hassle-free shipping experience.
For the most updated details, visit CBP and ISF Customs Broker.
1. Essential EPA and DOT Compliance Forms
Vehicles imported to American Samoa must comply with U.S. environmental and safety regulations. These forms confirm compliance and prevent your car from being held at customs.
Required forms include:
- EPA Form 3520-21: Required for foreign-purchased vehicles, marine engines, or gas-powered generators.
- EPA Form 3520-1: Required for foreign-purchased vehicles to declare emissions compliance.
- DOT Form HS-7: Confirms compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation safety standards.
- Letter of Permission from EPA: Needed if a non-U.S. resident imports a vehicle as a tourist for up to one year.
Note: Vehicles 25 years or older with the original drive train are generally exempt from EPA/DOT compliance.
2. Proof of Ownership and Conformity
Customs must verify that you legally own the vehicle and that it conforms to U.S. standards. Without proper proof, your car may face delays or penalties.
Documents that serve as proof include:
- USA Title or Registration: For vehicles previously registered in the U.S.
- Letter of Conformity from Manufacturer: Confirms the vehicle meets U.S. EPA/DOT regulations.
- Foreign Military Sales Contract: Indicates compliance if the vehicle was acquired through military channels.
- Exemption for vehicles 25 years or older, as proven by the title.
- Title translated into English – Required for foreign-purchased vehicles.
For returning U.S. vehicles, the ownership names on the Title/Registration must match the consignee of the shipment.
3. Bill of Sale and Pro‑forma Invoice
A Bill of Sale or Pro‑forma Invoice is necessary to show the vehicle’s value and transaction details. Customs uses this to assess duties and verify ownership.
Required information includes:
- Vehicle description
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Model and year of manufacture
- Statement of value
This is mandatory for foreign-purchased vehicles.
4. Bill of Lading (OBL)
The Bill of Lading (OBL) is issued by your shipping company and acts as proof that your vehicle is on the ship. It includes shipment details like VIN, make, model, and destination port. Customs will use this document to match the physical vehicle with your paperwork, so the original is required.
Additional Required Documents
Depending on the situation, you may also need:
- Customs Form 7501: For vehicles previously owned and shipped from the U.S.
- Completed EPA-3520-1, DOT HS-7, and Customs 7501: Required for returning U.S. vehicles.
- Passport or government-issued ID: Especially important for non-U.S. residents importing vehicles temporarily.
Tourist imports are limited to 1 year, and the vehicle must be exported before the period ends. Sale or transfer of the vehicle is strictly prohibited.
Special Considerations for Non-Residents and Temporary Imports
Non-U.S. residents can import a vehicle to American Samoa as a tourist for up to one year, but there are strict rules.
- A permission letter from the EPA is required before shipping.
- Vehicles must not be sold or offered for sale during this period.
- Some ports may require a bond up to three times the vehicle’s value to ensure timely export.
- Temporary imports may require port-specific declarations.
Vehicles that cannot comply with EPA/DOT regulations should not be imported, as the cost and time to bring them into compliance via certified conversion shops (ICI) is generally not economical.
Quick Checklist for Shipping Your Vehicle To American Samoa
Here’s a complete checklist of documents needed:
- EPA Form 3520-21 (if applicable)
- EPA Form 3520-1 (foreign-purchased vehicles)
- DOT Form HS-7
- Letter of Permission from EPA (for tourists)
- USA Title/Registration or Letter of Conformity
- Foreign Military Sales Contract (if applicable)
- Exemption proof for vehicles 25+ years old
- Title translated into English (foreign vehicles)
- Bill of Sale / Pro‑forma Invoice with Statement of Value
- Original Bill of Lading (OBL)
- Customs Form 7501 (for returning U.S. vehicles)
- Completed EPA-3520-1, DOT HS-7, and Customs 7501
- Passport or government-issued ID (for tourists)
Ship Your Car Safely with E&G Elite Logistics
Shipping a car to American Samoa requires careful attention to documentation and strict adherence to EPA/DOT regulations. Proper preparation ensures smooth customs clearance, avoids fines or seizure, and helps your vehicle arrive on time. For a reliable experience, working with the best car transport companies and a trusted car shipping service like E&G Elite Logistics can make the entire process seamless and stress-free. Call us today at 518-362-1349 to get a quote or learn more about our services.
