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Importing cars to the US involves navigating a maze of fees and compliance requirements. From harbor maintenance charges to customs bonds, understanding these costs is critical for budgeting and avoiding delays. This guide breaks down the four most critical terms: HMF, MPF, DTHC, and Customs Bonds, with 2025 rates and actionable strategies.
For a full import walkthrough, see our pillar article:
Shipping American Muscle Cars Overseas: A Complete Documentation Guide
1. HMF (Harbor Maintenance Fee)
What It Is:
A federally mandated fee of 0.125% on the value of ocean freight imports. It supports the maintenance and development of US ports and harbors.
2025 Key Details:
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Rate: 0.125% of the declared cargo value
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Applies To: All ocean freight imports into the US
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Excludes: Air and land shipments
Example:
A $50,000 classic car shipped via ocean will incur an HMF of $62.50.
2. MPF (Merchandise Processing Fee)
What It Is:
A fee imposed by US Customs to offset the cost of processing imported goods.
2025 Rates:
| Entry Type | Rate | Min/Max |
|---|---|---|
| Formal (>$2,500) | 0.3464% of value | $31.67 – $634.62 |
| Informal (≤$2,500) | Flat fee | $2.53 |
Note: These rates will change in 2026.
A $80,000 vehicle import pays $277.12 in MPF (0.3464% of $80,000).
3. DTHC (Destination Terminal Handling Charge)
What It Is:
Fees charged at the destination port for unloading and processing containers. These are negotiated directly by the shipper and can vary significantly—ranging from $0 to $800 per container depending on volume, port, and carrier.
2025 Estimated Averages:
| Port | 20ft Container | 40ft Container |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $293 | $585 |
| New York/New Jersey | $273 | $546 |
| Miami | $254 | $507 |
4. Customs Bond
What It Is:
A mandatory financial guarantee to US Customs ensuring that all import duties, taxes, and compliance obligations are fulfilled. It is a legal requirement for all commercial imports.
Why It’s Required:
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Guarantees payment of duties and taxes to CBP
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Ensures regulatory compliance with import laws
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Protects the government in case the importer defaults
Key Characteristics:
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Non-refundable: Bond fees are premiums paid to surety companies and are not returned, even if no claims are made.
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Required for all commercial entries, even one-time shipments.
Types & 2025 Costs:
| Bond Type | Coverage | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Entry | One-time use | ~1% of shipment value (minimum $75) |
| Continuous | Unlimited annual use | Flat rate: $650/year |
How These Fees Impact Total Import Costs
Sample Cost Breakdown: Importing a 1969 Camaro Z/28 from Germany
| Fee Type | Calculation | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Value | – | $85,000 |
| Duty (2.5%) | 2.5% of $85,000 | $2,125.00 |
| HMF | 0.125% of $85,000 | $106.25 |
| MPF | 0.3464% of $85,000 | $294.44 |
| DTHC (NYC) | – | $546.00 |
| Customs Bond | ~1% of vehicle value | $850.00 |
| Total Fees | – | $3,921.69 |
Annual Update Notice
This article is updated every December 1 to reflect changes in US Customs regulations, fee adjustments, and trade policy shifts. Bookmark this page or subscribe to our newsletter to stay current.
How West Coast Shipping Simplifies Compliance
We help importers navigate this complex process efficiently:
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Automated Calculations: Use our Import Calculator to get instant HMF/MPF estimates
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Customs Bonds: Partner with A-rated sureties to secure competitive bond pricing
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Port Coordination: Leverage our relationships with US ports to negotiate DTHC discounts
Need Help Navigating Fees?
Contact West Coast Shipping for a personalized import cost analysis and expert compliance guidance.
For more on tariff strategies, read our guide:
Trump’s 25% Tariff Impact on Auto Shipping
Why Import a Car from the US to France: Benefits & Cost Savings
Tariff-Free Classic Car Imports from Canada & Mexico: 2025 Surge
