How Much Does It Cost to Import a Car to the US? Country-by-Country Guide

October 13, 2025 at 10:08 AM

Importing a car to the United States involves significant costs beyond just international shipping, including customs duties, new tariffs introduced in April 2025, fees, taxes, and compliance modifications that vary dramatically by country of origin and vehicle specifications. Understanding these complete cost structures helps importers budget accurately and avoid expensive surprises during the import process.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the total costs of importing vehicles from nine popular countries, covering shipping rates, import duties including new Section 232 tariffs, required fees, and additional expenses that impact your final investment. Whether you're importing a classic European sports car, Japanese performance vehicle, or modern luxury automobile, these country-specific breakdowns provide essential financial planning information.

Important Update: As of April 3, 2025, the US introduced an additional 25% ad valorem tariff on passenger vehicles and light trucks under Section 232 measures, significantly increasing import costs beyond the traditional 2.5% base duty rate. For complete official information, see CBP Section 232 Automotive Tariff Info.

Use our car import calculator to get personalized cost estimates based on your specific vehicle and current import requirements.

Understanding 2025 US Import Duties and Tariffs

Before the country-by-country costs, it’s critical to understand the current tariff structure affecting many vehicles imported into the United States.

Tariff framework since April 2025

Base customs duty (most passenger cars): 2.5% (HTS 8703.x, subject to precise classification).
Baseline tariff (2025 update): 10% may apply to many imported goods, including vehicles, depending on origin and classification.
Section 232 tariff (national-security measure): 25% on finished vehicles from non-exempt countries. Trade-agreement partners (e.g., USMCA) can be exempt if the vehicle meets rules-of-origin.

What this means: Depending on the vehicle’s origin, content, and HTS coding, importers may see only the 2.5% base duty, 2.5% + 10%, or those plus a 25% Section 232 tariff. Correct HTS classification on CBP Form 7501 and rules-of-origin are decisive.

Exemptions and Special Categories

25-Year Import Rule: Vehicles 25+ years old are exempt from EPA/DOT compliance. When properly classified under HTS 9903.94.04, they are also exempt from the 25% Section 232 tariff. The 2.5% base duty generally still applies.
Show or Display: Eases compliance obligations for approved models, but does not automatically eliminate customs duties or tariffs.
US-Origin Returns: US-made or previously US-titled vehicles may qualify for duty relief with thorough documentation (original US manufacture/ownership and export records).
Light Trucks (“Chicken Tax”): Some light trucks are subject to a 25% tariff under separate provisions. Whether additional tariffs (10% baseline, 25% Section 232) apply depends on origin, HTS classification, and exemptions.

Germany

Germany represents one of the most popular sources for vehicle imports to the United States, particularly for classic BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche models, though new tariff structures significantly impact total costs.

Shipping Costs from Germany:

Ocean freight from German ports to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. These rates represent estimates and can vary based on fuel surcharges, port congestion, container availability, and seasonal demand fluctuations.

Import Duties and Tariffs: German vehicles face the new combined duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.)
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Total duty: 27.5% of declared value
Additional mandatory fees include Harbor Maintenance Fee (0.125% of value) and Merchandise Processing Fee (0.3464% of value, minimum $31.67, maximum $634.62)

Compliance Modifications: Modern German vehicles under 25 years require extensive modifications to meet EPA and DOT standards. Compliance costs vary significantly based on importer method and vehicle specifications:

Registered Importer (RI) modifications: $8,000-$20,000
Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) compliance: $12,000-$25,000
Costs depend on required changes to lighting, emissions, safety systems, and crash standards

Total Cost Example: A €30,000 classic German sports car (approximately $33,000) would incur:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $9,075
Harbor Maintenance Fee: $41.25
Merchandise Processing Fee: $114.31
Customs broker fees: $350-500
Total: $45,330-$45,480 landed in the US

France

French vehicle imports to the United States focus on classic Citroën, Peugeot, and Renault models, with modern luxury vehicles from brands like Bugatti commanding premium import services but facing substantial new tariff costs.

Shipping Costs from France:

Ocean freight from French ports to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. Actual costs may vary due to port selection, fuel surcharges, and seasonal shipping demand variations.

Import Duties and New Tariffs: French vehicles face the updated 2025 duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Combined duty rate: 27.5% of declared value
Mandatory processing fees apply as with other imports

Compliance Requirements: Modern French vehicles require extensive EPA and DOT compliance modifications. Cost ranges vary based on compliance method:

Basic modification requirements: $10,000-$25,000
Specialized compliance for unique French systems: $15,000-$30,000
25-year-old classics avoid compliance requirements but still face full duty rates unless qualifying for specific exemptions

Total Cost Example: A $45,000 modern French luxury vehicle would face:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $12,375
Mandatory fees: $200
Compliance modifications: $15,000-20,000
Total: $75,325-$80,325 before state registration fees

Netherlands

The Netherlands serves as a significant entry point for European vehicle exports to the US, with many collectors and dealers utilizing Dutch ports for accessing European automotive markets, though new tariff structures dramatically increase costs.

Shipping Costs from Netherlands:

Ocean freight from Dutch ports to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. Rotterdam offers efficient container services, though costs remain subject to market variations and additional surcharges.

Import Duties and Processing: Dutch vehicle imports face the new combined duty structure:

Base duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 tariff: 25%
Total duty: 27.5% of vehicle value
Note: Depending on HTS classification, origin, and applicable exemptions, pickups/light trucks may be subject to the 25% ‘Chicken Tax.’ Whether additional tariffs (e.g., the 10% baseline or a 25% Section 232) apply is not automatic and must be confirmed by proper HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.”

Total Cost Example: A $25,000 classic Dutch vehicle would face:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $6,875
Mandatory fees: $125
Customs processing: $400
Total: $35,150 for complete import to the US

Spain

Spanish vehicle imports to the US include classic SEAT models, specialty vehicles, and European sports cars, though the new tariff structure significantly impacts total import costs.

Shipping Costs from Spain:

Ocean freight from Spanish ports to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. Mediterranean shipping routes provide reliable service, though costs may vary with fuel prices and seasonal demand.

Import Duties and Requirements: Spanish vehicles face the updated 2025 duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Combined rate: 27.5% of declared value
Spain's EU membership ensures consistent documentation standards

Total Cost Example: A $35,000 Spanish sports car would face:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $9,625
Mandatory fees: $150
Customs processing: $450
Total: $42,975 for complete US import

United Kingdom

UK vehicle imports remain popular despite Brexit complications and new US tariff structures, focusing on classic British sports cars, luxury vehicles, and right-hand drive specialty models, though costs have increased substantially.

Shipping Costs from UK:

Ocean freight from UK ports to New York costs $2,750 with 26-day transit times. Brexit has slightly complicated documentation requirements, but established trade relationships maintain efficient processing.

Import Duties and Brexit Impact: UK vehicles face the new combined duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Total duty: 27.5% of vehicle value
Right-hand drive vehicles may face additional state-specific restrictions and modification requirements

Total Cost Example: A $40,000 classic British sports car would incur:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $11,000
Mandatory fees: $175
Customs processing: $400
Total: $54,325 for US delivery

Japan

Japan represents a major source of specialty vehicle imports to the US, particularly for 25-year-old performance cars and unique models never sold in the American market, though new tariff structures significantly impact costs.

Shipping Costs from Japan:

Ocean freight from Japanese ports to New York costs $3,050 with 45-day transit times. Pacific routing to West Coast ports offers shorter transit times but similar costs, while East Coast destinations require longer routing through the Panama Canal.

Import Duties and JDM Considerations: Japanese vehicles face the updated duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Combined duty: 27.5% of declared value
Right-hand drive vehicles may require state-specific modifications or face restrictions

Total Cost Example: A $25,000 Japanese performance car would face:

Shipping: $3,050
Combined duty (27.5%): $6,875
Mandatory fees: $115
Customs processing: $350
Total: $35,390 with East Coast processing

Italy

Italian vehicle imports focus heavily on classic Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, and Fiat models, with Italy serving as a major source for European sports car imports to the US, though new tariffs substantially increase costs.

Shipping Costs from Italy:

Ocean freight from Italian ports to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. Mediterranean routing provides reliable service, with potential for specialized handling for high-value exotic vehicles.

Import Duties and Exotic Vehicle Considerations: Italian vehicles face the new combined duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Total duty: 27.5% of declared value
High-value exotic vehicles may require specialized handling, climate-controlled containers, and enhanced security adding $2,000-5,000 to shipping costs

Total Cost Example: A $85,000 classic Italian sports car would face:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $23,375
Mandatory fees: $325
Specialized handling: $3,000
Total: $114,450 for premium import service

Belgium

Belgian vehicle imports often involve luxury vehicles, classic European models, and specialty cars that utilized Belgium's central European location for distribution, though new US tariffs significantly impact total costs.

Shipping Costs from Belgium:

Ocean freight from Antwerp to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. Belgium's major port provides competitive rates and efficient service to US destinations.

Import Duties and Processing: Belgian vehicles face the updated 2025 duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Combined rate: 27.5% of vehicle value
Belgium's efficient port operations provide streamlined processing

Total Cost Example: A $38,000 Belgian luxury vehicle would face:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $10,450
Mandatory fees: $165
Customs processing: $400
Total: $51,765 for US delivery

Norway

Norwegian vehicle imports often involve unique Scandinavian models, electric vehicles, and specialty cars, though the new US tariff structure significantly increases import costs even for environmentally friendly vehicles.

Shipping Costs from Norway:

Ocean freight from Norwegian ports to New York costs $2,750 with 18-day transit times. North Sea routing provides service through Northern European ports to US destinations.

Import Duties and EV Considerations: Norwegian vehicles face the standard updated duty structure:

Base import duty: Import duties and tariffs: Start with the 2.5% base duty (HTS 8703.x). A 10% baseline tariff may also apply, and a 25% Section 232 may apply to non-exempt origins. Vehicles qualifying under USMCA or the 25-year exemption (HTS 9903.94.04) may avoid some or all additional tariffs. Final treatment depends on HTS coding on CBP Form 7501.
Section 232 additional tariff: 25%
Total duty: 27.5% of declared value
Electric vehicles require specialized handling and battery safety protocols that may add $1,000-2,000 to shipping costs

Total Cost Example: A $45,000 Norwegian electric vehicle would face:

Shipping: $2,750
Combined duty (27.5%): $12,375
Mandatory fees: $190
EV handling surcharge: $1,500
Total: $61,815 for complete US import

For detailed cost calculations specific to your vehicle and current import requirements, use our car import calculator to receive personalized estimates including all applicable duties, new tariffs, and additional costs.

Additional Cost Considerations

Beyond base shipping and the new combined import duties, several additional expenses affect total import costs regardless of country of origin.

Mandatory Fees and Requirements

Customs Bond Requirements: Most vehicle imports require a customs bond equal to 10% of the vehicle's declared value, with minimum costs of $100-500 depending on bond type and vehicle value. Annual bonds may provide cost savings for multiple imports.

Processing and Documentation: Professional customs brokerage services typically cost $350-800 depending on complexity, with additional fees for document preparation, customs communication, and clearance processing.

Compliance Modifications

Modern Vehicle Requirements: Vehicles under 25 years old typically require extensive modifications to meet EPA emissions and DOT safety standards. Compliance costs vary dramatically based on original specifications and importer method:

Registered Importer (RI) Path:

Lighting system modifications: $1,500-4,000
Emissions system upgrades: $3,000-10,000
Safety system modifications: $2,000-8,000
Crash standard compliance: $5,000-15,000

Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) Path:

Generally higher costs due to more comprehensive requirements
Total compliance costs: $12,000-30,000 depending on vehicle complexity
May be required for certain vehicles without RI availability

Right-Hand Drive Considerations: RHD vehicles may face additional state restrictions and require specialized modifications for US road use, potentially adding $3,000-8,000 to total costs.

State-Level Costs

Registration and Taxes: Each state imposes different registration fees, sales taxes, and safety inspections that can add 5-12% to the vehicle's value. Some states impose additional restrictions on imported or modified vehicles.

Storage and Delivery: Port storage fees accrue if customs clearance delays occur, typically costing $75-200 per day. Final delivery from port to destination can add $800-3,000 depending on distance and specialized vehicle handling requirements.

Important Disclaimers and Considerations

Rate Variability: All shipping rates provided represent estimates based on current market conditions and can vary significantly due to fuel surcharges, port congestion, seasonal demand, container availability, and route changes.

Duty Exemption Verification: Claims of duty exemptions or reduced rates require careful verification with customs authorities and professional import specialists, as qualification requirements are strictly enforced and documentation must be comprehensive.

Compliance Complexity: Modification requirements and costs vary dramatically based on specific vehicle characteristics, original market specifications, required changes to meet US standards, and chosen compliance pathway (RI vs. ICI).

Frequently Asked Questions About Importing Cars from Spain

How much does it cost to import a car from Spain to the US in 2025?

Total costs for importing a Spanish car to the US range from $18,990 for a classic vehicle qualifying for exemptions to $67,825+ for modern vehicles requiring full compliance. This includes $2,750 shipping, duties ranging from 2.5% (25+ year vehicles) to 27.5% (modern vehicles), processing fees, and compliance modifications of $7,800-$38,500.

Do 25-year-old Spanish cars qualify for import duty exemptions?

Yes, vehicles 25 years or older are explicitly exempt from the additional 25% Section 232 tariff under HTSUS section 9903.94.04, paying only the base 2.5% import duty. This represents significant savings - a $16,500 vehicle would pay only $413 in duties instead of $4,538, saving over $4,000 in tariff costs.

What compliance modifications are required for Spanish vehicles?

Modern Spanish vehicles under 25 years old require EPA emissions and DOT safety modifications costing $7,800-$38,500. Many Spanish SEAT vehicles benefit from Volkswagen Group compliance pathways, reducing costs through existing retrofit kits. Classic vehicles 25+ years old avoid all compliance requirements.

How long does shipping take from Spain to the US?

Ocean freight from Spanish ports (Barcelona, Valencia) to New York takes approximately 18 days. Mediterranean shipping routes provide reliable service with established schedules. West Coast destinations add 7-10 days due to routing requirements.

Are SEAT vehicles expensive to import due to compliance requirements?

SEAT vehicles often benefit from Volkswagen Group relationships, providing access to established compliance pathways and retrofit kits that significantly reduce modification costs. Many SEAT models share platforms with Volkswagen and Audi, making compliance more affordable than truly unique Spanish vehicles.

What are the main Spanish ports for vehicle exports to the US?

Barcelona and Valencia serve as Spain's premier automotive export hubs, offering frequent container services, competitive rates, and modern facilities. These ports provide the most reliable and cost-effective shipping options with 18-day transit times to New York.

Do Spanish diesel vehicles face additional import challenges?

Spanish diesel vehicles present variable compliance challenges depending on emissions standards. Euro 6 diesels may more easily align with EPA requirements, while older emissions families could require extensive modifications. In some cases, retrofit may be impractical or prohibited under EPA rules.

What additional costs should I expect beyond shipping and duties?

Additional costs include customs brokerage ($450-900), vehicle collection in Spain ($350-800), US delivery ($900-1,200), and state registration fees ($100-800 plus sales tax). Most states accept properly modified imported vehicles without significant additional penalties.

Can I save money by importing multiple Spanish vehicles together?

Yes, consolidated container shipping can reduce individual shipping costs by up to 50% when multiple vehicles share container space. This makes Spanish imports more economically viable for collectors or dealers importing multiple vehicles simultaneously.

Are there any ongoing trade negotiations that might reduce Spanish import costs?

Ongoing EU-US trade negotiations may potentially establish reduced tariff ceilings of 15% for EU vehicles including Spanish imports, though no formal agreements have been enacted as of late 2025. Current tariff structures remain in effect until any formal agreements are implemented.

Understanding these complete cost structures, including the significant impact of new 2025 tariffs, enables accurate budget planning and prevents expensive surprises during the import process. Professional import services can help navigate complex requirements while potentially reducing total costs through efficient processing and established relationships with shipping and compliance providers.

Cargo Damage Protection

Even with professional handling and secure loading, unexpected incidents can occur during international shipping. West Coast Shipping offers Cargo Damage Protection to safeguard your vehicle from potential loss or damage while in transit. This optional coverage provides peace of mind and ensures that, in case of unforeseen events, your investment remains protected.

This comprehensive protection covers various scenarios that standard shipping coverage may not address, including damage during loading/unloading, weather-related incidents, and handling mishaps that can occur despite professional care. For valuable Spanish vehicles, particularly classic SEAT models or rare performance variants, this additional protection represents a small investment relative to the potential financial exposure.

Get Your Personalized Import Cost Estimate Today

Contact our import specialists today to discuss your specific vehicle import requirements and receive detailed cost breakdowns based on current rates, new tariff structures, and applicable regulations. Our experienced team provides comprehensive support throughout the entire import process, from initial shipping cost assessment through final US registration and delivery.

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