As the U.S. enforces a 25% tariff on imported vehicles, classic car exporters are turning to Mexico's thriving restoration hubs to leverage USMCA's tariff exemptions. By rebuilding American muscle cars like the 1969 Camaro Z/28 or Ford Mustang Boss 302 with 55%+ North American parts, collectors can ship these vehicles globally duty-free. This guide explains how Mexico's nearshoring boom is reshaping international muscle car trade while bypassing punitive tariffs.
For context on the current U.S. tariff policy, see Trump's 25% Tariff on Imported Cars: Impact on Auto Shipping.
55% Regional Value Content (RVC): Core parts (engine, transmission, body) must originate in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico.
Historic Vehicle Exemption: Cars over 25 years old qualify for 0% duty under USMCA, even if rebuilt.
Simplified Certification: Single affidavit proving parts sourcing replaces complex paperwork.
Example: A 1969 Camaro restored in Mexico with:
U.S.-made LS3 crate engine ($12k)
Mexican-manufactured Borla exhaust ($3k)
Canadian-sourced Tremec transmission ($6k)
Qualifies for 0% tariffs to the EU or Japan.
Mexico City Customs: Specializes in numbers-matching restorations for Shelby and Mopar models.
Guadalajara Restomod Co.: Builds USMCA-compliant LS-swapped Camaros/Chargers.
Monterrey Vintage Motorsports: Focuses on Porsche 356 and Corvette C2/C3 conversions.
Cost Advantage: Labor rates average $35/hour vs. $150+ in the U.S., cutting restoration costs by 50–60%.
| Component | Origin | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 427ci V8 Engine | Texas, USA | $18,000 |
| T56 Transmission | Ontario, CA | $7,500 |
| Bodywork | Monterrey, MX | $12,000 |
| Total | 55% RVC | $37,500 |
0% EU duty vs. 10% standard rate.
Sold for €120k ($130k) at Essen Motor Show 2025.
Use US Car Import Calculator to verify RVC thresholds.
Partner with Mexican suppliers like AutoPartes MX for compliant exhausts/seats.
USMCA Certificate of Origin: Issued by Mexican chambers of commerce.
Restoration Invoice: Itemize North American parts (minimum 55%).
| Destination | Method | Cost (MX-EU) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | Enclosed Container | $4,200 | 28 days |
| Japan | RoRo | $3,500 | 35 days |
Our services streamline USMCA exports:
RVC Audits: Verify part origins for compliance.
Cross-Border Transport: Door-to-door from Mexican workshops to global ports.
Customs Brokerage: Handle EU TÜV/GCC certifications pre-shipment.
Recent Success: Shipped six USMCA-compliant '69 Camaros to Germany, saving clients $92k in tariffs.
As the industry leader in international car shipping since 2007, West Coast Shipping provides comprehensive solutions for your muscle car exports from Mexico to worldwide destinations:
Door-to-Door International Shipping: Complete logistics from Mexican workshops to global destinations
Dedicated Container Service: Climate-controlled, secure transport for high-value restorations
Air Freight Options: Expedited shipping for auction-bound or time-sensitive vehicles
Customs Documentation: Expert handling of USMCA certifications and destination compliance
Secure Storage: Climate-controlled facilities at our California, Florida, and New Jersey warehouses
Unlike other international car shipping companies, we manage everything in-house – from documentation to loading your vehicle, our experienced team handles every step with meticulous attention to detail.
Get an Instant Quote or call our USMCA specialists at 855-980-7447 to discuss your specific needs.
For more on avoiding U.S. tariffs, visit Classic Cars Exempt from 25% Import Duty.