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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Entry Summary (CBP Form 7501)—declares value, origin, rate codes
DOT Form HS-7—check Box 1 (“25-year exemption”)
EPA Form 3520-1—Box E (“Vehicle is at least 25 years old”)
Bill of Lading from the importer’s ocean carrier
Commercial invoice plus shipment packing list
Incorrect classification or eligibility claims can result in additional duty, penalties, or delays.
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.
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.
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.
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.