Shipping Cars from the US to the Middle East: A Complete Guide
By Dan Burkandt on April 9, 2025 at 12:25 PM
Transporting vehicles between the United States and the Middle East requires navigating complex logistics, customs regulations, and international shipping procedures.
German Import Duty on US Cars in 2026: 0% for US-Built, 10% for the Rest, and the 30-Year Rule
By Dan Burkandt on April 4, 2025 at 10:54 AM
Germany's import duty on an American car in 2026 is one of three numbers. 0% if the car was built in the United States and customs accepts its origin, under the EU's Turnberry regulation that took effect July 1, 2026 and runs through December 31, 2029. 10% if it was built anywhere els …
Japan's Auto Tariff Policy: Impact on US Car Exports in 2025
By Dan Burkandt on April 3, 2025 at 12:15 AM
The international automotive trade landscape experienced a seismic shift on July 23, 2025, when President Trump announced a landmark trade agreement with Japan. This historic deal, described by Trump as "perhaps the largest deal ever made," fundamentally altered the tariff structure b …
Toyota Altezza RS200 Buying Guide: JDM Sports Sedan Now Import-Eligible
By Dan Burkandt on March 20, 2025 at 9:30 AM
The Toyota Altezza RS200 represents one of Japan's most celebrated sports sedans—a vehicle that perfectly balances everyday practicality with genuine performance credentials. Production started in October 1998, so every Altezza built through October 2001 is now 25 years old or more an …
Are German Cars Worth Buying in 2025? Cost vs. Quality Analysis
By Dan Burkandt on March 20, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Are German Cars Worth Buying? German automobiles have long held a prestigious position in the global automotive market. Known for their engineering excellence, performance capabilities, and luxurious features, brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Porsche continue to captivate car …
Nissan Silvia S15 Buying Guide: 2026 Values & US Import
By Dan Burkandt on March 18, 2025 at 2:00 AM
Nissan built the S15 Silvia from January 1999 to August 2002, and the average S15 sale on CLASSIC.com is $35,294. Every S15 built before October 2001 is now 25 years old and can enter the US, and the last cars qualify in August 2027.
Top Japanese Sports Cars Eligible for Import in 2025
By Dan Burkandt on March 17, 2025 at 2:30 PM
The 25-year rule has opened exciting new possibilities for JDM enthusiasts in 2025. This year marks the eligibility of Japanese vehicles manufactured in 2000, including some of the most sought-after models from the peak of Japan's performance car era. At West Coast Shipping, we've see …
Best German Car Auction Sites & How to Import to USA | 2026 Guide
By Dan Burkandt on March 17, 2025 at 12:00 PM
Where to Buy German Cars and How to Import to the USA For American car enthusiasts, Germany represents a treasure trove of automotive excellence. From classic BMWs and Mercedes-Benz models to rare Porsches and Volkswagens, the German car market offers vehicles that are often difficult …
How to Ship a Car to Germany from USA | Complete 2026 Guide
By Dan Burkandt on March 17, 2025 at 6:00 AM
Shipping a car from the USA to Germany comes down to four steps: pick the shipping method, prepare the documents, clear customs on both sides, and register the car for German roads. Consolidated container rates start at $1,100 per car from New Jersey, and in 2026 the trip can get chea …
TÜV Inspection for American Cars in Germany: Requirements, Costs and Timeline | 2026 Guide
By Dan Burkandt on March 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Every American car registered in Germany passes through a TÜV inspection first. For a typical US-spec car that means four predictable changes (headlights, a rear fog light, amber side indicators and a km/h speedometer), an inspection fee of €100 to €200, and €600 to €1,700 in modifica …