Ship Cars To The US From Switzerland: 2025 Process, Paperwork & Costs

Switzerland stands out in the European car import world for its meticulous record-keeping, well-kept cars, and unique VAT/duty rules. Whether sourcing an Alpine-wintered Porsche, a mint classic Mercedes, or a collector-ready BMW, partnering with West Coast Shipping makes Swiss-to-U.S. logistics smooth, affordable, and transparent.

Dive deeper into all European source markets with WCS’s complete Europe–US import guide, or get your route-specific quote using the car import calculator.

True Costs and Timing: Switzerland–USA 2025

• Ocean freight Switzerland to New York: ~$2,750 containerized (average WCS benchmark, transit time ~18 days after reaching port; allow 2–10 days for overland to Rotterdam or Antwerp).

• Swiss inland trucking/pickup: $400–$2,500 depending on origin and vehicle state (non-running, classic, or rural vehicles may require specialized equipment).

• Air freight: Rare, only for high-value cars—typical 2025 quote is ~$13,750 (FRA–JFK, 7 days shipping).

• US port/handling: $600–$1,200, depending on volume/port.

• Customs clearance and domestic delivery: $900–$2,000, adjust for state and logistics.

All cost scenarios and quotes are clarified up front using the WCS calculator.

Step-by-Step Swiss Export & VAT Refund Process

Step 1:

Deregister vehicle with the local Swiss road office (Strassenverkehrsamt). Obtain the original "Fahrzeugausweis" (registration/title) stamped for export.

Step 2:

File export with Swiss Customs (BAZG/admin.ch), presenting deregistration and proof of departure from Switzerland. You must secure stamped export paperwork.

Step 3:

Request Swiss VAT refund (standard is 7.7%). Refunds only process if your export paperwork is filed at the border and matched to your sale invoice. Refunds are not automatic—and can be lost if paperwork is incomplete or deadlines are missed.

Step 4:

Arrange secure transport to the port—Rotterdam, Genoa, or Hamburg are common exit points for ocean shipping, Frankfurt for air. Allow 2–10 extra days to reach port from your Swiss pickup.

Step 5:

Your WCS agent schedules container loading and manages all international customs/departure paperwork.

Documents Required for Swiss–US Car Shipping

• Swiss registration/title (Fahrzeugausweis)

• Deregistration/export certification (Swiss customs export document)

• Bill of sale/contract (with buyer and seller details)

• Invoice (matching value for customs/vat)

• Power of attorney (for agents)

• Commercial invoice/bill of lading

• Proof of customs clearance and stamped VAT paperwork for refund

• EPA Form 3520-1, DOT Form HS-7 at U.S. entry

U.S. customs requires original (not photocopied) documents for clearance and DMV registration.

U.S. Customs: Duties, Timelines, and Compliance

• Duty: Most passenger vehicles = 2.5%, commercial/SUVs may reach 25%.

• EPA/DOT: Cars ≥25 years old typically qualify for EPA/DOT exemption if unmodified and with matching original spec. Modern cars may require Registered Importer conversion or approval—consult WCS early.

• Clearance: Proper paperwork results in 2–7 day release at New York port. Inland delivery across the US arranged by WCS.

Special Swiss Tips & Pitfalls

• VAT refunds are strict: Missing border/export stamps mean no refund—use a Swiss agent for every export.

• Winter shipping: Allow for Alpine weather and pass conditions, which can impact ground time to port.

• Non-EU (Swiss) documentation is unique: U.S. customs may require certified translations for non-EU paperwork—WCS assists with all translation/legalization.

Popular Swiss Exports for US Buyers

• Porsche (911/997, Cayenne, Macan)—notable for meticulous Swiss service records

• Mercedes S-Class and AMG models—unique Swiss tuning, low miles

• Classic BMWs (E30, E24, E28)—prized for rust-free mountain usage

• Diesel and EVs—note: California DMV and US EPA rules may limit registration in some states

Switzerland–US Car Shipping At a Glance

Live scheduling/quotes and step-by-step doc checks at each stage—get yours now.

Start Your Swiss Car Import With an All-In Quote

Work with a WCS team trusted by collectors, dealers, museums, and enthusiasts. See our Europe-wide process breakdown for visual checklists and compliance guidance, or get a personalized, live quote at the car import calculator.