Ship Cars To The US From Belgium: 2025 Cost, Process & Compliance Guide

Belgium—anchored by the Port of Antwerp—is a top hub for transatlantic car exports. Whether moving a Belgian-market classic, Continental European collectible, or show car, this guide covers cost benchmarks, export paperwork, customs, and the vital real-world details for U.S. importers.

For a full Europe-wide comparison, see the main Europe-to-US guide or use the West Coast Shipping Calculator for tailored rates.

Why Belgium? Antwerp’s Unique Advantage

Antwerp is one of Europe’s busiest ports—offering frequent container consolidations, direct U.S. sailings, and excellent logistics for vehicles loaded from Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Transparency Tip: Because freight consolidation containers may not depart daily, some wait time (often several days) before ocean voyage is normal for most non-urgent shipments. Your vehicle is usually held in a secure terminal until the next groupage container is full.

2025 Pricing: Current Real-World Averages

• WCS consolidated benchmark: ~$2,750 Antwerp–New York (standard sedan; recent average, always request a current quote)

• Ocean time: Roughly 18 days (not counting local delivery post-arrival or processing time at port)

• Inland Belgian collection: $400 estimate (varies by proximity)

• Handling/brokerage/US port: $600–$1,200 typical

Rates may fluctuate with fuel, demand, and market changes. Confirm your live rate using the shipping calculator.

Antwerp Port Agent Coordination

Many critical customs steps—like creating the EX‑A export declaration, validating VAT-free status, and scheduling dock appointments—are handled by professional port agents, not always by the private seller. An experienced shipper ensures your EX‑A is processed, VAT refund is claimable (if applicable), and vehicle is correctly released by local customs.

What Documents Do I Need For Belgium–U.S. Shipping?

• Original Title/Registration for the vehicle (EU or Belgian)

• Purchase invoice (bill of sale)

• Power of attorney (if a third-party logistics provider or customs broker is acting)

• Export declaration (EX-A/AES)—usually initiated by your forwarding agent

• Proof of VAT clearance or eligibility for refund (if you are a non-EU buyer/exporter)

• Carrier bill of lading

• Belgian registration/certificate d’immatriculation/Kentekenbewijs if used locally

For full document checklists and visuals, consult the Europe-to-U.S. main guide.

VAT Refund: How It Works for Belgium

• Standard Belgian VAT is 21%.

• Non-EU buyers can often reclaim VAT upon export, IF EX‑A forms, port agent sign-off, and official shipment exit are properly executed (always confirm seller and agent experience).

• Refund timing can range from a few weeks to several months—keep all confirmations for your records.

U.S. Customs: Section 25-Year Exemption & Modern Compliance

• Vehicles 25+ years old: Generally exempt from most EPA/DOT requirements if they remain original. EPA Form 3520-1, DOT HS-7, original title, and bill of sale needed.

• Modern vehicles (<25 years old): These may be subject to Registered Importer modifications and—in some cases—a 15% tariff under U.S. Section 232. Section 232 applies if the car is modern and not exempt under a relevant HTS code, with the relevant country of manufacture, not the port of export, determining eligibility. Always confirm with your shipper or broker before purchase.

See our main compliance primer for more.

Common Pitfalls at Antwerp (and How to Avoid Them)

• Document errors: Minor mistakes in export or sale paperwork often cause costly delays.

• Missing or incomplete EX‑A handling: Only authorized port agents can process official export validation for VAT reclaim.

• Customs or agent miscommunication: Always ensure you’re working with experienced international brokers familiar with both Belgian and U.S. requirements.

• Expect and plan for container consolidation wait-times: Don’t book last minute.

Delivery in the U.S. and Beyond

After clearing customs (typically 3–5 days if all in order), arrange for domestic trucking. Major U.S. ports offer FTL/LTL delivery options, with WCS coordinating regardless of final state.

Belgium–U.S. Shipping at a Glance

Ready to Calculate Door-to-Door & Get Document Help?

Tap into our Europe-to-US import guide for the most current documents, compliance, and practical guidance on Belgian exports. For real-time rates and eligibility, use the WCS car import calculator and get full support from origin to your driveway.