Shipping A Motorcycle From The UK To The USA: Complete 2025 Guide

Shipping a motorcycle or scooter from the UK to the USA remains remarkably accessible in 2025, but smart preparation is essential. Below is everything a rider, restorer, or dealer needs to ride through U.S. customs—including compliance nuances, rates, real paperwork expectations, and what to do if you encounter VIN or CBP hiccups along the way.

U.S. Import Compliance: 25-Year Rule, Modern Bike Feasibility

25-Year-Old Imports: Exemption Benefits

Motorcycles 25 years old or older (model year 2000 or earlier) are exempt from standard EPA and DOT rules:

• Only a 2.5% customs duty for permanent import

• No emissions or safety retrofits required

• Fully legal to title in every state after customs release

Customs code tip: Most motorcycles under 800cc are classified under HTS code 8711.10.00; always check the latest Harmonized Tariff Schedule for correct duty assessment when filing. Larger displacement bikes use the appropriate HTS 8711.x code series.​

Modern Motorcycles: Brand-Dependent Compliance

Modern bikes can sometimes be imported if the brand already holds EPA and DOT certification for equivalent U.S. models (e.g., Triumph, Ducati, BMW):

• Request EPA letters and DOT documents from the manufacturer in advance

• If bike configuration/VIN does not exactly match, expensive modifications or Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) intervention may be required

Not all modern bikes are importable—always check before you buy.

Documentation Required: Passport, EIN, and More

For U.S. customs filing:

• Non-U.S. citizens: Passport copy is required

• U.S. residents or business entities: EIN letter or SSN for AES customs entry (and further paperwork if importing on behalf of clients—your broker may request EIN authorization documentation).

Other must-haves:

• UK V5C, export declaration, bill of sale with sale price, currency

• EPA/DOT certificates or exemption paperwork

• VIN must be exactly matching on bike/paperwork (non-17 digit or altered VINs can delay clearance)

• All values should be well documented—CBP uses transaction price unless evidence of underreporting

Ocean & Air Shipping: Costs and Practicalities

Ocean Freight Container Shipping

• UK to New York: $2,750, 26 days

• UK to Miami: $2,750, 33 days

• Safe, shared container handling; individualized or group crating setups available

Get transparent container quotes and process at the UK shipping portal.

Air Freight: Speed for Special Cases

Air freight is typically chosen for exhibitions, urgent relocations, or rare/valuable motorcycles (e.g., $30,000+ collectible bikes). Actual prices ($8,000–$15,000) depend on model, crate, fuel surcharge, and airport destination; always request a specific quote.

Port Arrival, Customs, and Edge Cases

Upon arrival at U.S. ports, you’ll clear customs, pay the relevant duties/fees, and handle any required DMV verifications.

• Customs reviews papers and may check VIN; mismatches or nonstandard formats (common on classic/Euro bikes) increase scrutiny and clear time.

• If facing a VIN or document issue, use of a bonded warehouse is available: this option lets you store your bike in a secure, customs-approved facility while paperwork or clarity is sorted—helping avoid detention or extra demurrage.

After release, bikes over 25 years are easily titled. Modern bikes with compliance can proceed to state registration.

Pro Tips and Reminders

• Always check if your bike fits the 25-year exemption (built in 2000 or earlier)—it saves huge hassle.

• For modern bikes, contact manufacturer support for U.S. EPA/DOT approval letters; be cautious if documentation is incomplete or VINs differ.

• Document sales price and market comparables for CBP—good records prevent valuation disputes.

• Use bonded warehouses strategically if there’s a paperwork delay at the port.

For expert, end-to-end solutions and the latest rates, visit our UK shipping page.

Get Your Instant Motorcycle Shipping Quote

Start your UK-to-USA move now. Get rates for ocean container or air, compliance checks, bonded warehouse options, and customized documentation help for every scenario.