Classic Car Imports: How the 25-Year Rule Affects Compliance and Customs Costs

1. What the 25-Year Rule Actually Changes

The 25-year rule primarily affects regulatory compliance (DOT and EPA requirements). It does not automatically eliminate customs duty or other import charges. Duties and any additional tariffs depend on the vehicle’s classification, country of origin, and the trade measures in force on the date of entry.

2. What the 25-Year Rule Actually Changes (and What It Doesn’t)

The “25-year rule” is primarily a compliance threshold (DOT/NHTSA safety and, in many cases, emissions rules), not a blanket promise of “tariff-free” entry. Even when a vehicle qualifies by age, customs duty and any additional trade measures can still apply depending on the vehicle’s classification, origin, and the rules in force on the entry date. Confirm the exact HTS classification and applicable measures with your customs broker before purchase.

3. Which Duties and Taxes Still Apply to Classic Car Imports?

Even when a vehicle qualifies as a classic by age, importers may still owe:

• Base customs duty (rate depends on classification and origin)

• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)

• Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)

The U.S. does not have a federal VAT. State sales or use tax may apply after import and titling.

4. How Do Importers Verify a Vehicle Is at Least 25 Years Old?

• Original title with manufacture date

• Factory build sheet or heritage certificate

• VIN decoding (supporting evidence only; model year ≠ build date)

• European customs documents for classic car imports from the EU

Customs officers compare paperwork to the entry date down to the day—Vehicles near the 25-year threshold should be reviewed by a customs broker before shipment to confirm eligibility.

5. Can Vintage Cars Undergo Restoration and Still Qualify for Exemption?

Yes—refinishing paint, rebuilding an engine, or upgrading brakes does not affect age status, provided the car retains its classic vehicle identity. If a shell is restamped or a modern chassis is substituted, officers may deem it “newer,” jeopardizing the exemption. Importers should keep restoration invoices to prove continuity of VIN and original construction.

6. Do Trucks and SUVs Enjoy the Same Classic Duty Break?

Trucks and SUVs are often classified differently from passenger cars. While age can affect regulatory compliance, duty rates and tariffs may differ. Always confirm classification and total charges with a customs broker before purchase.

7. What Paperwork Must Importers File with U.S. Customs?

1. Entry Summary (CBP Form 7501)—declares value, origin, rate codes

2. DOT Form HS-7—check Box 1 (“25-year exemption”)

3. EPA Form 3520-1—Box E (“Vehicle is at least 25 years old”)

4. Bill of Lading from the importer’s ocean carrier

5. Commercial invoice plus shipment packing list

Incorrect classification or eligibility claims can result in additional duty, penalties, or delays.

8. How Do Tariff-Free Imports Affect Classic Car Market Values?

Data aggregated in West Coast Shipping’s 25-year boom study shows newly eligible models often see increased demand, but pricing varies by model, condition, and total landed cost.. Sellers abroad adjust prices knowing U.S. importers can expect savings versus modern cars. Yet total landed cost still undercuts domestic examples, keeping overseas buying attractive.

9. What Logistics Steps Keep Duty-Exempt Classics Moving Smoothly?

• Container loading — padded tie-downs protect vintage cars from transit scratches.

• Condition report — photos document the auto’s state for insurance.

• GPS tracking — West Coast Shipping provides live vessel positions for peace of mind.

• Custom clearance — in-house brokers

  Brokers file the appropriate HTS classification based on the vehicle and current trade rules.

These services prevent delays that could push a borderline-age car past—or short of—the 25-year mark during transit.

10. Why West Coast Shipping Is the Go-To Partner for Duty-Exempt Classic Imports

With bonded warehouses at Oakland, Miami, and New Jersey, West Coast Shipping loads over 40 containers of classic and vintage cars weekly. Our team:

• Confirms eligibility before purchase

• Files the correct HTS and exemption codes

• Handles inland transport, ocean freight, and final delivery

• Guides buyers on state titling to avoid extra tax pitfalls

Whether you’re a dealer bringing five BMW Z8s or a collector landing a single Jaguar E-type, we streamline every step of the import process.

Get Your Classic Car Duty-Exempt Shipping Quote

Ready to import your classic with a broker-verified duty and landed-cost estimate? Use our instant calculator below to see costs, timelines, and container options—then drive your automotive history home without the modern tariff burden.