Conformity Package Software for Registered Importers

By Michael Roessler, Founder of VIN2. Former RI satellite operator and author of three Registered Importer license applications.

Last updated: November 2026

Short answer: A conformity package is the evidence file a Registered Importer submits to NHTSA to show that a nonconforming vehicle has been brought into compliance with every applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) and the bumper standards. NHTSA releases the vehicle for registration only after it accepts the package. VIN2 is neutral software that helps RIs assemble complete, consistent packages, so more of them are accepted the first time.

What a conformity package is

When a nonconforming vehicle is imported under Box 3 of the HS-7 declaration, the RI must submit a conformity package for that vehicle. It certifies that the vehicle has been brought into compliance, and it is supported by photographs and documents showing the work. Once NHTSA accepts it, the agency issues a release letter, and the RI can then release the vehicle for licensing and registration.

The rules around it

Import eligibility: the make, model and model year must be eligible for import, usually because it is substantially similar to a US-certified vehicle and can be readily altered to conform.
A Registered Importer is required: a nonconforming vehicle must be imported by an RI, or by someone who has contracted with an RI to bring it into conformity.
The DOT bond: a bond of 150% of the vehicle's declared value is posted at entry.
The 120-day window: the vehicle must be brought into conformity within 120 days of entry, or exported or abandoned.
Recalls: the package must show that the vehicle has no outstanding safety recalls. See our recall guide.

Why packages get kicked back

Missing or unclear photos of the modifications, labels or components
Inconsistent VINs, dates or vehicle details across documents
Incomplete recall substantiation
No suggested statement of conformity, or one that doesn't match the evidence
Manual assembly from email, spreadsheets and photo folders, where things easily slip through

Each rejection means rework, follow-up with NHTSA, and a vehicle that can't be delivered yet.

How VIN2 builds conformity packages

VIN2 is the only neutral compliance platform for RIs. It is not an RI, a customs broker, a bond provider or a dealer, so your data and your customers stay yours.

One record per VIN. Entry data, HS-7 details, bond information, photos, modification records and recall evidence live together in a single structured file.
Built-in recall substantiation. The automated type-level triage and the recorded per-VIN check travel with each package, so substantiation isn't assembled from email at the last minute.
The metric that matters: first-pass acceptance. Fewer kickbacks means less rework for your team.

See it on your own vehicles

Book a walkthrough, or start with a free recall exposure report on your certified-vehicle list.

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Frequently asked questions

What is an NHTSA conformity package?

It is the evidence file an RI submits to certify that a nonconforming imported vehicle now meets all applicable FMVSS and bumper standards, supported by photos and documents.

Who has to submit a conformity package?

The Registered Importer responsible for the vehicle, for each nonconforming vehicle imported under Box 3 of the HS-7.

How long does an RI have to bring a vehicle into conformity?

120 days from the date of entry.

How large is the DOT bond?

150% of the vehicle's declared value.

Is VIN2 a Registered Importer?

No. VIN2 is neutral software that serves RIs. It is not an RI, a broker, a bond provider or a dealer.