Talk Morgan Forums Community Welcome Forum '18 Morgan 4x4

Dear Forum members,

While I am sure there are many nuances to importing a Morgan into the US, generally, what are the "issues" I would face if I purchased a "new" Morgan in GB and wanted to import it into the USA (Balto-Wash Area).
I've heard many different scenarios, but are there bullet points to know, including what if any modifications would need to be made to the Morgan in order to be "accepted" and "road ready."

Thank you for your input etc.

R.g.

Im in the process now with a 91 plus 4. If over 25 years and no changes to the engine, it seems straight forward with us customs/epa. Mine should be in savannah in a week. Picked it up at berrybrook and drove it in the UK for two weeks.
If i remember, dc/md/va do emissions test but over 25 may be exempt. Va/md do safety inspections but the UK mot is tougher so that should not be a problem unless they force a state safety standard for crash. Normally they default to the fed standard. You can pm me and i can give you more details if needed. Picture is at the Antique Barn in Risby.
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Thank you for your response, and a beautiful car and wishing you the best with it. I note that you referenced various state inspections generally so did you reach out to your local Dept of Transportation to obtain information regarding the ability of registering the car etc.

Absolutely. Each state can be a little different. Had to do it with the corvette several times (fl/nm/ca/hi/nc and ky) seems like emissions testing was the only issue. Once over 25 years, most states exempt them.

Biggest deal is to make sure the vin matches sales docs and the engine must be in original configuration. If it doesnt, it has to meet the current EPA laws. I had a uk appraiser look at the vehicle first before money was deposited. I can recommend insurance off-line so it doesnt look like a commercial

Exporting from the UK was staight forward. I hired a company and they are also doing the us import clearance. You also get the us customs import bill. Dont be surprised when your state asks you for a check covering the sales tax to register it. Generally around that 6-7% mark... Ouch but cheaper than VAT.

I'll have to update in a few weeks on the us customs processing.

Got it and thanks. As I begin my due diligence on vehicle requirements for import (keeping in mind that I am currently looking at an '18), might you provide me with the contact information for your "importer" and the insurer.

Rg.

Rules get real mirky on a newer model. Youve seen the new rolling chassis models coming to the us. Problem with the newer assembled (Factory installed engine) model is EPA clearance on the engine. Thus the rolling chassis and separate engine/potential issues with states rules. These fall under different rules than the 25yr exemption.

Mog magazine is showing west coast and fl importing the new rolling chassis. Morgantown wv has a dealer now!

Fun stuff. I was not dissapointed by my car. Could i have bought a morgan already in the usa for less? Yes, but i wouldnt have the cool "there i was story" to go with it!

How did you happen upon your Mog? Were in GB on that mission or was it just a "happen to be there" and see it?

Rg.

It was about a year of watching the trades and dealer sites. Then a long 6 months storage before the pickup.

For a 2018 Morgan you need to research the Epa and Vehicle safety standards. Before it clears customs you may have to prove it is "clean and safe".
In 1976, before the 25 year rule, I imported my +8. I had to modify it to meet 1970 US standards and prove to the EPA and the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety people that the work had been done. It sat at the port for a month while the wheels of government slowly turned. I had to show the customs officers how to handle the importation.

Thank you. I have been generally doing the Google thing and picking up sites etc. Are there specific sites that you would be willing to share with me just for my info?