Ryan J. Scudder Executive Assistant Commissioner | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Norfolk, Va., have continued to seize food trailers and golf carts imported from China that do not meet federal motor vehicle safety standards. Between July 18 and September 18, CBP officers seized five golf carts, four food trailers, and one scooter with a combined value of approximately $50,000.
The vehicles were intended for delivery to addresses in Suffolk, Va.; Chester, Va.; Berkeley Springs, W.Va.; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis, Ind.; Denver, Col.; and Spokane, Wash. In each instance, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) inspectors determined the vehicles did not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Some manufacturers and importers were also found not registered as required by law.
Importing nonconforming vehicles is prohibited under 49 USC 30112. Vehicles must be manufactured to comply with all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards and bear a label certifying compliance permanently affixed by the original manufacturer.
In July, CBP announced the seizure of 14 similar non-compliant vehicles including a tuk-tuk, food buggies, golf carts, and a camper that failed vehicle safety standards.
Mark Laria, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Norfolk-Newport News, Va., emphasized the importance of these regulations: “The United States has stringent vehicle safety regulations that are designed to protect you and others while traveling on our nation’s roadways. Customs and Border Protection officers will continue to work with our National Highway Traffic Safety Administration partners to ensure that vehicle imports fully comply with those safety standards.”
CBP encourages consumers purchasing products from foreign markets via internet marketplaces or global supply systems to ensure their products comply with U.S. safety and import laws. Those interested in importing vehicles can visit NHTSA’s website for guidelines on lawful importation.
CBP's mission at Ports of Entry includes screening international travelers and cargo for illicit narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, counterfeit goods, prohibited agriculture items, invasive species among other threats.
For more information on CBP activities or updates from the Baltimore Field Office Director follow @DFOBaltimore on X (formerly Twitter) or @cbpfieldops on Instagram.
CBP is America’s frontline law enforcement organization with over 65,000 members working across various domains to ensure national security through innovation and collaboration.
