Import Regulations for Car Shipping to USA
Shipping Your Vehicle from the UK to the USA: A Complete Guide
Exporting a vehicle from the UK to the United States is a popular but regulated process. The US has strict standards governed by multiple federal agencies, and understanding these rules before you ship is critical to avoid costly delays, refusals, or the mandatory destruction of your vehicle.
At Ship Cars Ltd, we specialise in navigating the complexities of US vehicle imports. This definitive guide provides a complete overview of the process, from eligibility checks to final registration, with a special focus on the advantageous rules for vintage and classic cars. ship your car to the USA
The 25-Year Rule: The Golden Rule for US Imports
The most important regulation for anyone importing a vehicle into the US is the 25-Year Rule, enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).
What the Rule States
Vehicles that are at least 25 years old from their date of manufacture are exempt from EPA emissions and DOT safety standards. This means a vehicle that is 25 years or older can be imported into the US without any modification, provided it is in a safe, roadworthy condition.
- Why this matters: This rule makes the US an excellent market for UK classic and vintage cars. A 1999 vehicle, for example, becomes eligible for straightforward import in 2024.
- Calculation: The age is determined by the month and year of manufacture, not the model year or registration date.Motor
Vehicles Under 25 Years Old
Importing a vehicle less than 25 years old is significantly more complex, expensive, and often not feasible. Such vehicles must be modified by a Registered Importer (RI) to comply with all applicable US EPA and DOT standards, a process that can cost thousands of pounds and may not even be possible for some models. We generally advise against attempting to import non-eligible modern vehicles.
Authority Link: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Importing a Motor Vehicle
The Three Key US Governing Agencies
Understanding which agency does what is essential for a smooth import process.
| Agency | Acronym | Primary Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Protection Agency | EPA | Regulates vehicle emissions and fuel evaporation systems. |
| Department of Transportation | DOT | Regulates vehicle safety standards (e.g., seat belts, airbags, lighting, bumper height). |
| Customs and Border Protection | CBP | Clears the vehicle through customs, collects duties, and verifies compliance with EPA/DOT. |
Step-by-Step Import Process
Step 1: Pre-Shipment Eligibility Check
This is the most critical step. Do not ship your vehicle until you have confirmed its eligibility.
- Check the Age: Confirm the vehicle’s manufacture date. If it is 25 years or older, you can proceed with confidence.
- Verify with the Manufacturer: For vehicles under 25 years old, you must contact the manufacturer to obtain a letter confirming the vehicle conforms to US EPA and DOT standards. Most UK and European-spec vehicles do not.
Step 2: US Customs Entry & Documentation
Once your vehicle arrives at a US port, your appointed US Customs Broker (which we can arrange) will file an entry with CBP. Required documents typically include:
- Original Bill of Lading
- Original Purchase Invoice or Bill of Sale (to determine value for duty)
- Vehicle Title or V5C Logbook (as proof of ownership)
- EPA Form 3520-1
- DOT Form HS-7 (on which you will declare the vehicle’s eligibility, e.g., under the 25-year exemption)
- CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)
Step 3: Paying Import Duty
CBP will assess an import duty on your vehicle. The rate is generally:
- Passenger Vehicles: 2.5%
- Motorcycles: 0%
- Vans & Trucks: 25% (The “Chicken Tax” – a crucial consideration)
The duty is calculated on the purchase price, including any shipping and insurance costs.
Authority Link: U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Importing a Motor Vehicle
Step 4: State-Level Registration
Clearing federal customs is only half the battle. You must then register and title the vehicle in your state of residence.
- Requirements Vary by State: Each state has its own requirements for titling, registration, insurance, and safety inspections.
- Typical Process: You will present your CBP release documents, proof of ownership, and a completed application to your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). Some states may require a state-level safety or emissions inspection.
- VIN Verification: Most states require a physical inspection to verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Special Considerations for Vintage & Classic Cars
The 25-Year Rule makes the US a prime destination for classic British cars. However, there are still important factors to consider.
- Provenance and Documentation: A well-documented history, including the V5C, previous MOT certificates, and any restoration records, will be valuable for both customs and future resale.
- Biosecurity: While the US does not have the extreme biosecurity requirements of Australia, the vehicle should be clean and free of excessive soil and organic matter to avoid unnecessary inspections.
- State-Specific Antique/Vintage Plates: Many US states offer special licence plates for antique vehicles, which often come with tax benefits and exemptions from annual inspections. The qualifying age for these plates varies by state (e.g., 25 years, 30 years).
Prohibited & Restricted Vehicles
Certain vehicles face an import ban or severe restrictions.
- Vehicles Not Conforming to Standards: Any vehicle under 25 years old that does not meet US EPA/DOT standards and cannot be feasibly modified by a Registered Importer.
- Stolen Vehicles: Will be seized by authorities.
- Vehicles with Safety Recalls: Must have all open recalls addressed before importation.
- Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Vehicles: While not federally prohibited, some states and insurance companies may have specific restrictions or requirements for RHD vehicles. Insurance can be more expensive and may require a specialist provider.
Your Pre-Shipment Action Plan for the USA
- VERIFY VEHICLE AGE: Confirm the manufacture date. If it is under 25 years old, seriously reconsider shipping unless you have definitive proof of US compliance.
- GATHER DOCUMENTATION: Collect the original V5C, purchase invoice, and any service or restoration history.
- CHOOSE YOUR PORT: Select a US port of entry with experience in processing vehicle imports (e.g., Baltimore, Newark, Savannah, Los Angeles). We can advise on the best option for your final destination.
- ARRANGE A US CUSTOMS BROKER: This is not optional. You must have a licensed broker to clear your vehicle through CBP. We work with a network of trusted partners.
- RESEARCH STATE DMV REQUIREMENTS: Contact your local DMV to understand exactly what is needed for titling and registration once the vehicle clears federal customs.
Summary: Key Takeaways for a Successful US Import
- The 25-Year Rule is Paramount: It is the most significant factor determining the ease and cost of your import.
- Federal vs. State Compliance: You must meet both federal (EPA/DOT/CBP) and state (DMV) requirements.
- Professional Help is Essential: The process involves complex paperwork and strict deadlines. Using an experienced shipper and a US customs broker is highly recommended.
- Due Diligence Saves Money: Verifying eligibility and gathering correct documentation before shipping is the best way to avoid expensive problems.
Ship with Confidence to the USA
The team at Ship Cars Ltd has extensive experience in shipping classic, vintage, and modern vehicles to the United States. We understand the 25-Year Rule inside and out and can manage the entire process, from UK collection to coordinating with US customs brokers.
Contact us today for a definitive shipping quote and let our expertise guide your valuable vehicle to its new American home.
