Spain’s car market offers everything from rust-free classics to performance SEATs and sought-after EU variants—making it an ideal source for U.S. collectors and dealers. However, the Spanish export process, VAT and customs nuances, and variable port schedules make working with an expert like West Coast Shipping essential for cost control and peace of mind.
Learn about the exact steps, required paperwork, and tailored cost examples in the master Europe-to-US shipping guide. For live, route-specific rates, tap into the WCS car import calculator.
Ocean freight (Barcelona/Valencia to New York): ~$2,750 per car (containerized shipment via groupage; ~18 days at sea, though actual departure may require 2–7 days extra for consolidation).
Origin collection (local): $350–$800 depending on exact city and pick-up needs.
Spanish port/handling fees: $600–$1,200 for paperwork, loading, and customs services.
U.S. customs brokerage: $450–$900 depending on port and vehicle complexity.
U.S. delivery: Typical is $900–$1,200 but varies by address and type.
Duties: Most classic/25+ year vehicles 2.5%. Modern EU vehicles may incur tariffs up to 27.5%.
Always verify current pricing for your exact locations and vehicle specs with the WCS calculator.
Remove the car from the DGT motor registry and receive a baja definitiva (final deregistration paper).
File a DUA (Documento Único Administrativo) export declaration with Spanish Customs—done by your agent/forwarder (WCS manages this directly).
21% IVA (VAT) is standard on in-country purchases. U.S. buyers may be eligible for a refund if a full DUA customs export is filed and confirmed.
VAT refunds can take time—work with a partner experienced in Spanish procedures.
Final Spanish registration (Permiso de Circulación)
Final deregistration confirmation (baja definitiva)
DUA/EX export papers from Customs
Bill of sale or purchase invoice (with both parties’ details)
Power of attorney forms, if shipping is arranged by your agent
WCS arranges container consolidation, loading, Spanish port documentation, and dock appointments to expedite your shipment.
EPA Form 3520-1 & DOT Form HS-7: Required for all non-U.S. vehicles. 25+ year cars may qualify for exemptions.
Original Spanish registration & export papers
Bill of lading and sale for U.S. entry
Customs broker submission: All paperwork must be pre-cleared before container arrival in the U.S.
2.5% for eligible classics (25+ years, unmodified)
Up to 27.5% for newer EU vehicles affected by Section 232 semi-tariff (check with WCS to confirm status for your model)
Book early: Groupage schedules are not daily; missing a container cutoff may delay your shipment by a week.
Confirm VAT refund process: Not all dealers or private sellers offer proper DUA handling for a VAT refund. Clarify up front before funds are transferred.
Clean your vehicle: The U.S. requires foreign vehicles to be absolutely free of soil, organic material, and debris—especially undercarriage and cargo areas.
Use trusted documentation and translation services: Non-Spanish buyers benefit from agent/shipper support for DUA formalities, export and U.S. compliance.
| Step/Service | Typical Range/Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | $350–$800 | By city and logistics |
| Ocean Freight | ~$2,750 (18 days avg) | Groupage, delays possible |
| Docs/Handling | $600–$1,200 | Export, loading, US docs |
| US Brokerage | $450–$900 | Customs clearance |
| Duties | 2.5%–27.5% | By age/origin, US code |
| US Delivery | $900–$1,200 | Destination, time |
Rates and departures subject to actual port schedules and the season—verify before committing.
SEAT Ibiza/Cupra (VW Group variants for U.S. compliance)
Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes models—often well-preserved in Spain’s dry climate
Peugeot/Citroën classics and special editions
Local-market VW T3/T4 campers, many unique to Spain
Complete door-to-door logistics and EU–US documentation
Daily partnerships at major ports—Barcelona, Valencia, Bilbao
Live container slot management (off-peak rates can sometimes be lower)
U.S. customs, duties, and delivery handled in-house or with trusted partners
See our full Europe guide for an expanded process, or start with a personalized rate quote today.
Bring clarity to your Spain-to-U.S. import with accurate, route-specific pricing.
Use the WCS Car Import Calculator to confirm real costs for your exact vehicle and ports.