Ship Cars To The US From UK: True Costs, Process & Compliance In 2025

November 15, 2025 at 6:30 AM

Shipping a car from the United Kingdom to the United States remains a popular path for collectors, enthusiasts, and expats. The UK's robust auction scene, rare classics, and unique RHD and LHD options offer U.S. buyers compelling choices—but success still hinges on mastering paperwork, port schedules, compliance, and cost transparency.

For a complete, country-by-country Europe shipping comparison and up-to-date cost guide, see the WCS full Europe-to-USA import resource. For live rate and eligibility quotes for your vehicle, use the WCS car import calculator.

Cost to Ship a Car from the UK to the US in 2025

WCS benchmark: ~$2,750 for consolidated ocean freight from UK ports (Southampton) to New York, with a typical 26-day transit. This is a standard estimate for a typical sedan/container slot—get an exact, country/vehicle quote before booking.
Total costs can vary: Expect $600 for local vehicle collection, plus $600–$1,200 for origin/US port and brokerage, customs duty (2.5% typically, 15% for new/modern EU cars subject to Section 232), and domestic U.S. delivery after arrival.

Note on Schedules: Consolidation containers from UK ports don't depart daily. Wait times can add several days to your total transit time—book in advance to secure a preferred sailing.

Export Process and Documents Needed

Shipping a car from the UK is straightforward but paperwork-heavy. WCS manages the documentation and port appointment requirements for you, ensuring smooth passage from collection to U.S. clearance.

Required UK export steps:

V5C Registration Document: Must match the seller's details.
Bill of Sale/Commercial Invoice: Shows proof of purchase and transactional value.
Power of Attorney: For your port agent/logistics partner (WCS clients are fully supported).
Export declaration: File through HMRC’s system for VAT-management and formal goods exit (EX-A if buying VAT-free).
UK port booking (port agent handles): Required for loading; all documentation must clear before your car is accepted at the shipping terminal.
VAT refund: Possible only if you're exporting as a non-UK/EU resident and processed with the right paperwork—always verify eligibility and application with your seller.

Learn more about all required steps in our complete Europe shipping guide.

U.S. Import & Customs Compliance

Classics (25+ years old):

Eligible for EPA/DOT exemption, dramatically lowering import cost. Required documents: EPA 3520-1, DOT HS-7, proof of originality, factory data plate photos.

Modern Vehicles (<25 years):

Must comply with U.S. EPA emissions and DOT safety laws—most require Registered Importer (RI) conversion at significant cost.
Section 232 tariffs (currently 15%) may apply for non-historic vehicles; modern UK vehicles manufactured in the EU may incur higher duty, determined by the original country of manufacture.

General customs entries:

U.S. importers must present bill of lading, UK registration, valid bill of sale, and compliance forms.
U.S. port processing and brokerage fees apply—WCS provides document pre-screening and live support on arrival.

RHD vs. LHD: Should You Import a Right-Hand Drive Vehicle?

RHD vehicles are eligible for U.S. import if 25+ years old, but daily use and resale can be more challenging in the States. Many buyers specifically seek UK-market LHD cars or European imports registered in the UK to simplify ownership and meet DMV/state inspection norms.

Specialty vehicles such as Defenders, classic Aston Martins, and vintage Lotuses are most popular for U.S. RHD collectors.

Common Pitfalls and Tips

Consolidation delays: Not all services run daily; waiting for the next available container may extend time-to-exit by several days or a week.
VAT refunds: To reclaim VAT, your purchase and export must meet strict HMRC standards and timelines. Using experienced agents is key—WCS coordinates with reputable port agents and confirms every requirement with clients in advance.
Modern vehicle tariffs: Duties/tariffs are set by country of manufacture, not just port of shipment. Always verify Section 232 status if your car is less than 25 years old or manufactured in the EU.

Typical Delivery Process Upon U.S. Arrival

After discharge and customs clearance (usually 3–5 days with correct paperwork and inspection), WCS offers onward delivery anywhere in the U.S., advising on registration, titling, and compliance with state-specific rules.

Summary Table: UK–US Car Shipping 2025

Step/Service	Typical Range/Timing	Notes
UK Collection	$600	From seller to port
Ocean Freight	~$2,750 (26 days)	Consolidated rate
Port/Handling/Brokerage	$600–$1,200	Origin + US port
Customs Duty	2.5%–15%	Section 232/EU rules
U.S. Delivery	$600–$2,000+	By destination

Rates/fees and departure schedules should be reconfirmed at booking.

Ready for a Live Quote or Expert Support?

Shipping a car from the UK to the U.S. is seamless with WCS—from HMRC export and VAT paperwork to U.S. customs and final delivery. Use our complete Europe guide to build your plan, or get an instant, vehicle-specific rate from the car import calculator.