A Power of Attorney (POA) is a mandatory legal document when shipping vehicles internationally, authorizing West Coast Shipping to act on your behalf for customs clearance and regulatory compliance. Without it, customs authorities may delay or reject your muscle car, classic vehicle, or modern export. This guide explains the POA process, its importance, and how to ensure compliance for hassle-free shipping.
For a full breakdown of documentation, see our pillar article: Shipping American Muscle Cars Overseas: A Complete Documentation Guide.
Customs Clearance: POA allows West Coast Shipping to submit paperwork, pay duties, and resolve issues at ports.
Legal Compliance: Required by U.S. Customs and international regulations for all commercial shipments.
Efficiency: Avoid delays caused by missing signatures or incomplete authorizations.
Example: A POA is essential for clearing a 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda through German customs, where local agents must act on the owner's behalf.
West Coast Shipping provides a standardized POA form, available here.
Shipper Information: Full legal name, address, and contact details.
Vehicle Details: VIN, make, model, and export destination.
Scope: Limit authorization to customs clearance and logistics.
Requirement: POA must be notarized in the presence of a licensed notary.
Options:
Visit a local notary (banks/UPS stores often offer services).
Use West Coast Shipping's partner notaries for remote online notarization (RON).
Email the signed, notarized POA alongside the original title and commercial invoice.
Risk: Customs rejection and storage fees.
Fix: Double-check notary stamps and signatures before submission.
Risk: Unintended legal/financial liability.
Solution: Specify that the POA applies only to customs and shipping tasks.
Validity: Typically 6–12 months. Renew if shipping timelines exceed this period.
| Country | Key Requirements |
|---|---|
| Germany | Notarized POA + German translation. |
| Japan | POA must list importer's residence card number. |
| UAE | Embassy notarization for non-residents. |
Our process ensures seamless POA management:
Template Provision: Access standardized forms for all destination countries.
Verification: We review each POA for accuracy before submission.
Electronic Processing: Send documents digitally for faster approval.
Important Note: We never exceed the authorization scope specified in your POA.
Requirement: Individual POA from the title holder.
Duration: Valid for single shipment (typically 6 months).
Requirement: Blanket POA covering multiple vehicles.
Duration: Can be extended for regular exporters.
Complexity: Requires POA from both seller and buyer.
Solution: Our shipping for dealers program simplifies this process.
Timing: Submit POA at least 14 days before scheduled pickup.
Verification: Ensure your contact details match your passport/ID exactly.
Sales Authorization: Include bill of sale alongside POA.
Lien Releases: If title shows a lien, provide notarized release letter.
For more guidance, see International Car Shipping Process & Best Practices.
No. Customs requires a shipping-specific POA that explicitly authorizes customs clearance.
Yes, typically one for U.S. export and another for import at destination.
Usually 6-12 months, though requirements vary by country.
A properly executed Power of Attorney is essential for smooth international car shipping. By following the guidelines above and working with West Coast Shipping's experienced team, you can ensure your muscle car, classic vehicle, or modern export clears customs without unnecessary delays or complications.
Contact West Coast Shipping for personalized guidance on POA requirements for your destination country.
For more on customs documentation, visit Clearing Customs: Documentation Required for Shipping Muscle Cars Internationally.