Switzerland To USA Car Import Guide: VIN, Costs, Duty, and Diesel Tips

Switzerland is famed for meticulous car care and rare Euro-market models—but importing from a landlocked country with complex EU, Swiss, and U.S. regulations demands detailed planning. Here’s how collectors, resellers, and enthusiasts can make smart, compliant trans-Atlantic moves in 2025—without surprise fees, regulatory snags, or DMV drama.

Top 5 Cars Worth Importing from Switzerland to the U.S. in 2025

Swiss-market cars can be spectacular—if you do the homework. Always verify VIN conformity, compliance status, and total cost, especially for rare variants or anything modified.

1. Porsche 911 Variants (Air-Cooled Classics)

Swiss 911s (late 964/993) are often low-mileage, rust-free, and fully documented—but can have unique Swiss/EU VINs (sometimes fewer than the standard 17 digits), triggering extra verification at U.S. customs or the DMV. Only import with clear proof of origin and compliance history.

2. Mercedes-Benz AMG Models

AMGs like the W124 500E and R129 SL are legendary, but verify all numbers match and watch for non-U.S.-style VINs. Diesel variants are less common, but those eyeing Swiss diesels should check their destination state’s stance—e.g., California strictly regulates or prohibits older diesel registrations under CARB rules.

3. Audi RS2 and RS4 Avant

These cult wagons are now 25+ years old, meaning easier import paths—if unmodified, with robust provenance. VIN and emissions conformity matter.

4. Alpine A110 Rally Legends

Rarity and valuation make due diligence even more vital. Confirm that all identifying marks and compliance paperwork are uncontested.

5. Land Rover Defender TDI

TDI Defenders are prized but have seen plenty of conversions and upgrades to suit the Alps. For diesel buyers, review your state’s emissions/registration climate—and double-check for potential U.S. import or titling hurdles if the VIN is non-standard.

Due Diligence Reminder: Factor hidden export costs, Swiss VAT refund uncertainty, land-locked-country shipping surcharges, and eligibility nuances into your budget and timeline.

Thinking about buying from Switzerland but not sure which models make sense to import? Read our detailed guide on the Top 5 Cars Worth Importing from Switzerland to the U.S. in 2025 to see which classics, AMGs, and Defenders deliver real value.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car by Air from Switzerland to the U.S. in 2025?

Switzerland–New York, air: $13,750, 7 days
Switzerland–New York, ocean: $2,750, 18 days (plus 2–5 days for Switzerland–port ground freight)

Swiss/EU EV shoppers: Modern electric cars must comply with IATA lithium battery shipping restrictions—ask any freight forwarder about documentation, charge levels, crating, and U.S. acceptance for used EVs.

Realism Note: Switzerland’s inland geography means add-on logistics, ground trucking, and customs may extend total journey times to 15–50 days, not counting any auction or paperwork-induced delays.

Want to learn more about air freight logistics? Check out our full breakdown on how much it costs to ship a car by plane from Switzerland to the U.S. for rates, timelines, and when air makes sense.

Compare container vs. air costs for your route and car using the WCS import calculator.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Importing a Swiss Car to the U.S.

Duty & Classification Caveats

• 2.5% is typical, but not universal. For example:

  • Passenger cars HTS 8703.23 (e.g., gasoline engines >1,500cc, ≤3,000cc): 2.5%

  • Pickups, some vans, or improperly classified SUVs: 25% “chicken tax”

• Confirm classification with U.S. CBP or your broker, as errors are costly and hard to reverse.

Want to avoid costly delays or compliance issues? Check out our article on common mistakes to avoid when importing a Swiss car to the U.S.

VIN Conformity & DMV Checks

• Swiss/EU VINs may not always be 17 digits, especially for pre-1981 vehicles or certain exotics. This can require further verification or documentary support at both port entry and state DMV titling—some states/barriers may require additional inspections or affidavits.

Diesel and Emissions Registration

• California and other CARB states restrict or ban older diesel registrations (e.g., pre-2010 standards). Confirm your vehicle’s emissions code and see whether it meets your jurisdiction’s threshold before you import that Swiss-market TDI or Sprinter.

Swiss VAT Refunds

• Not automatic! Swiss VAT refunds depend on export documentation, seller/broker handling, and timing. Refunds may take weeks or months, and missing forms or deadlines can mean permanent forfeiture.

Land-Locked Shipping and Timelines

• Real logistics from Switzerland involve at least one cross-border trucking leg. Add 2–5 days and variable costs ($250–$1,000+) for transport from inland Switzerland (Zurich, Basel, Geneva) to the shipment port.

25-Year Rule vs. “Show or Display”

• Most 25+ year-old classics with factory equipment clear EPA/DOT easily. Modified or unique cars, or those under 25-years-old with historic/engineering significance, may require “Show or Display” exemptions; usage is then limited and approval not guaranteed.

How to Import a Car from Switzerland to the U.S.: Full 2025 Compliance & Cost Guide

Step 1: VIN & Eligibility

• Confirm the Swiss/EU VIN meets U.S. requirements or know what extra documentation is needed.

• For under-25-year cars, explore “Show or Display” or racing/temporary options (strict use restrictions; check NHTSA links).

Step 2: Swiss Title, Export, and VAT Docs

• Obtain original registration/title, export permit, bill of sale.

• Arrange for inland transfer to a European port; ensure the transporter can accommodate any special loading needs.

Step 3: Shipping, HTS Code, and Entry

• Use providers with clear experience in Swiss exports. Match the correct U.S. HTS heading (e.g., HTS 8703.23 for most gasoline cars) for expected duty.

• For modern EVs: request a quote for lithium battery handling.

Step 4: U.S. Arrival, Customs, and Fees

• Prepare EPA (Form 3520-1) and DOT (Form HS-7) documents, plus customs entry forms.

• Duties, Harbor Maintenance, processing, inland shipping all apply.

Step 5: State Registration Reality

• Title and registration costs, safety/inspection steps, and emissions vary massively by state—especially for non-17-digit or special-fuel vehicles.

• In California or other strict states, pre-check diesel or unique car acceptance before purchase.

Looking for a step-by-step walkthrough? Our complete guide to importing a car from Switzerland to the U.S. covers everything from paperwork and shipping to customs and state DMV registration.

For real compliance support, rate breakdowns, and customized shipping quotes, see our expert WCS resources.

Get Your Switzerland-to-U.S. Import Quote Today

From VIN and diesel checks to real-time rates and compliance, WCS’s team keeps your Swiss import on track. Tap below for the step-by-step process, rates, and personalized import guidance.