I've imported 2 cars from the UK.

My '66 Jaguar, imported in 1996 and more recently my '60 MGA imported last year.

Both times I used a shipping agent in the US, they arrange the unloading and can deal with customs as well if you wish.

When I imported the Jag in '96, I deal with the customs and duties myself, which was fairly easy. I had to go to the customs office in Oakland, with all paperwork and they then gave me the release for the shipping agent to then hand over the car to me.

Last year I had the shipping agent deal with everything, which was easier with a little extra cost. I would go this route just to avoid the hassle of going to the customs office and paperwork involved.

My first import was on a roll on roll off, way cheaper and surprisingly no damage. With the MG last year, I used a container. The cost is substantially more, with charges once the car arrived in Oakland mounting up - unloading the container, opening the container, storing the container, truck waiting time to take the container to the shipping yard from the port.

So just be aware that the costs will go up from your original estimate and you can but pay otherwise they won't release the vehicle.

If you want to chat about it, send me a pm and I'll give you call.

Finally, when the car arrives and you're ready to go to the DMV, don't go there for vehicle verification. What a waste of time that was, inept fatherless childs!!! I ended up using a licensed verifier for approx $75. They actually know what they are looking at and will have your car verified in 10 mins. I'll dig out the name of the one I used in the bay area if you'd like.

Good luck, sounds like a great car.

Cheers
Matt

Again, Thanks for all the help.

I said I'd post pictures, so;

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/off-topic-discussions/922994-classic-70s-mini-cooper-quirky-hobby-car-3.html#post9335645