Simple really, there is a strict no-tolerance policy on asbestos material when you are importing cars to Australia from USA.  Asbestos is made up of 6 naturally occurring minerals. Predominantly in the 20th century, it was heavily used in consumer products as it is cheap, strong, and heat resistant. However, since then, it’s been found to cause life-threatening illnesses like mesothelioma and lung cancer.   According to the Australian Border Force, asbestos has been on the list of prohibited goods since 2003. The USA is on the list of countries where imported goods containing asbestos have been detected. Thus, the border force is typically on high alert when you import car USA to Australia.  It is your responsibility to ensure that when you import car from USA to Australia there is no asbestos detected. Typically, in classic cars, you can find asbestos material in brake pads, clutch linings, gaskets, and seals. Therefore, you must have strong knowledge of the vehicle and ensure there is no asbestos content found.  There are American-based asbestos testing and removal facilities that help you counter this pitfall. Usually, cheaper than the $800-$1000 cost of testing done in Australia should the border force suspect its presence. We always recommend an offshore asbestos test and removal service prior to importing cars to Australia from USA for classics.  A person found to be attempting to bypass the ban may face heavy penalties and fines. The fines alone can be more than $3000 per offense. Even if you are unaware before detection, inspection, and removal in Australia can increase the cost beyond reason. Highlighting the importance of the offshore inspection before you import car from USA to Australia.