Shipping a car from Italy to the United States lets buyers unlock Italian sports cars, exotics, and collector classics—if they navigate rigorous export rules and modern US compliance. Here’s a transparent guide on costs, schedules, Italian export documents, VAT issues, and key steps to succeed in 2025.
For a Europe-wide comparison, full cost breakdowns, and a VIN/documentation tutorial, see WCS's Europe import hub. For vehicle-specific rate and eligibility support, use the WCS car import calculator.
Recent WCS consolidated rate: ~$2,750 for ocean freight (Genoa/Livorno/Naples to New York), ~18 days on the water. Local collection, documentation, and wait for groupage container can add 3–10 days.
Domestic Italy collection: $350–$900 (depends on region, car type, enclosed vs. open hauler).
US arrival–delivery: Typical trucking is $900–$1,300, but varies by destination.
Port/handling/brokerage: $600–$1,200 for paperwork in/out.
Customs duty: Usually 2.5% (for classics ≥25 years, HTS 9903.94.04), often 15% for modern vehicles from the EU under current Section 232/reciprocal tariffs.
Always check your live shipping quote; rates move with market and schedule, especially for container groupage.
Secure "Libretto di Circolazione" (Italian registration document), a formal bill of sale, VAT clearance (if private sale), and Power of Attorney if an agent is handling export.
Filed with Italian customs for all permanent exports. Your agent/forwarder submits via Italy's customs system.
Italy’s standard VAT on cars is 22%. Refunds for US buyers require EX export proof, correct seller setup, and compliance—refunds are slow, and not always possible without the right paperwork in place from the start.
Experienced shippers manage dock dates, loading, containerization, and all customs appointments—WCS coordinates, so you don’t have to chase Italian bureaucracy.
Vehicle is loaded to a container, sealed, and sent to the U.S.
See document visuals and full compliance flow at the main Europe–US guide.
For classics (25+ years): Simple, as long as you provide the original "Libretto", bill of sale, and photos proving the car is unmodified. Submit EPA 3520-1 (Box E) and DOT HS-7 (Box 1).
For modern vehicles (<25 years): Must pass through a Registered Importer for DOT/EPA certification. This process can cost $10,000–$25,000 (more for exotics/supercars) and takes weeks. Section 232 tariffs commonly apply for late-model Italian cars; see WCS's current compliance advice.
Book early: Container schedules don’t operate daily. Delay is common if your car arrives just after a container closes—confirm all timing.
Verify all paperwork: Italian ports require error-free title, export declaration, and VAT clearance proof.
Partner with agents: Use a team familiar with both Italian export quirks and U.S. import protocols—WCS covers coast-to-coast coordination and support.
Alfa Romeo GTV6, 75, Giulia, and Spider models
Lancia Delta Integrale and rare rally specials
Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati—original Euro market versions
Fiat 500, Panda, and unique local classics
After U.S. customs clearance (usually 3–6 business days with complete paperwork), you’ll need the title, U.S. customs release, and federal EPA/DOT forms for state DMV registration. Requirements differ state-to-state; some require a VIN inspection or emissions test, especially for non-classics.
| Step | Range/Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | $350–$900 | Region, type, enclosed? |
| Ocean ship | ~$2,750 (18 days) | Groupage, consolidation varies |
| Port/docs | $600–$1,200 | Origin/US paperwork |
| US delivery | $900–$1,300 | Distance, destination |
| Customs | 2.5%–15% | Classic vs. modern/Section 232 |
Unlock the value in Europe’s most passionate car culture—without paperwork stress or cost surprises. For current rates, expert support, and document checklists, visit the main Europe import guide or use the WCS car import calculator for an instant, obligation-free quote.