Importation information

[Helmetgurus]

Hi everyone,

I am currently residing in Japan and have just purchased a 99 BMW 323i.
I have a couple of questions regarding impoting this vehicle:

1.The vehicle is on the nhtsa list for vehicles being capable for modifcation and importation and conforms with FMVSS.Are the DOT(departemnent of transportation)standards and FMVSS(federal motor vehicle safety standards) the same or diffierent?

2.What modifications need to be done in order for it to conform with EPA and DOT standards and how much(general estimation)would this cost ?

3.Has anyone done this before and if yes,do they have a registered importer to recommend to me(I'm planning on moving to San Diego)?

Thanks,
Phil