Car Shipping to the USA from the UK: The Complete Guide (Including New York)
Quick answer: Shipping a car from the UK to the USA takes 11–36 days at sea depending on destination port. Prices start from £986 for RoRo to Baltimore (port-to-port, standard saloon). Eight US ports are available: Baltimore, Jacksonville, Brunswick, Charleston, Galveston, New York/NJ, Port Hueneme, and Tacoma. The most important eligibility question is the 25-year rule: cars manufactured 25 or more years ago can be permanently imported without US safety or emissions modifications. Cars under 25 years old face significant restrictions and compliance costs. UK import duty on passenger vehicles shipped from the UK to the USA is currently structured under the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal at 7.5% in-quota (within a 100,000-vehicle annual quota) or 25% above-quota — a significant change from the previously stated 2.5% rate. Verify current duty status with a US customs broker before booking.
Can I Ship My UK Car to the USA?
Yes, in most cases — but eligibility is determined primarily by the vehicle’s age. The USA has strict federal vehicle safety (FMVSS) and emissions (EPA) standards, and whether a UK car can be permanently imported depends almost entirely on how old it is.
The critical threshold is 25 years from manufacture date (the US DOT’s so-called “25-year rule”). Cars reaching this age are exempt from FMVSS compliance and can be permanently imported without costly modifications. Cars under 25 years old can generally only be temporarily imported, or require a Registered Importer to certify compliance — at costs that can match or exceed the vehicle’s own value.
For most UK buyers planning to keep and drive a car in the USA long-term, this means:
- 25 years or older? You’re in the clear for permanent import. In October 2026, this means cars manufactured on or before October 2001 qualify.
- Under 25 years old? Permanent import is very restricted unless the vehicle is US-spec. Temporary import routes exist but have strict time limits.
Note on right-hand drive: RHD vehicles are not prohibited at the federal level, but some US states impose additional registration requirements for RHD vehicles. Check with the DMV of your destination state before importing.
The 25-Year Rule: The Single Most Important Eligibility Question
The 25-year rule (codified in the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act of 1988) provides a complete exemption from US DOT/NHTSA Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for vehicles 25 or more years old — meaning they can be permanently imported without modification, without a Registered Importer, and without a DOT compliance bond.
What the 25-year rule exempts
| Standard | Exempted at 25 years? |
|---|---|
| DOT/NHTSA FMVSS safety compliance | ✅ Fully exempt |
| Registered Importer requirement | ✅ Exempt |
| DOT compliance bond | ✅ Not required |
What the 25-year rule does NOT exempt
| Item | Still applies at 25 years? |
|---|---|
| US Customs duty | ✅ Still applies (see tariff section) |
| CBP customs entry forms | ✅ Still required |
| CBP EPA Form 3520-1 (emissions) | ✅ Still required at entry (EPA 21-year exemption applies) |
| CBP DOT Form HS-7 | ✅ Still required at entry |
| State registration requirements | ✅ Still required |
| Vehicle cleaning / biosecurity | ✅ Still required |
The 21-year EPA exemption
EPA emissions compliance has a separate, earlier exemption threshold: vehicles 21 years old or older are exempt from EPA emissions standards. This means cars between 21 and 25 years old are EPA-clear for permanent import but still need to address the DOT/FMVSS side (which, for most vehicles, means temporary import only, or Show or Display — see below).
Eligibility dates in 2026
Eligibility is determined by manufacture month and year, not model year or first registration date.
| Import date | Cars eligible under 25-year rule (manufactured on or before…) |
|---|---|
| January 2026 | January 2001 |
| October 2026 | October 2001 |
| December 2026 | December 2001 |
Source: WCShipping — 25-Year Rule for US Car Imports 2025: Complete Classic Import Guide
Proof of manufacture date: Build plate/manufacturer’s label, certificate of origin, build sheet, or VIN decode from the manufacturer. First registration date is not proof of manufacture date — a car registered in 2002 may have been manufactured in late 2001 and still qualify.
Routes for Cars Under 25 Years Old
Cars under 25 years old cannot be permanently imported to the USA unless they meet US FMVSS safety and EPA emissions standards, or qualify for a specific limited exemption. The options are:
| Route | What it allows | Conditions | Cost indication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary tourist import | Drive in the USA for up to 1 year | Vehicle must be re-exported; EPA exemption letter required; typically for non-US residents visiting | Low admin cost |
| Show or Display | Permanent import — limited use (2,500 miles/year) | Vehicle must be on NHTSA’s eligibility list (≤500 units manufactured); EPA compliant; case-specific application, slow approval | Significant admin |
| Registered Importer (RI) conversion | Permanent import — full use after compliance | RI modifies vehicle to meet FMVSS and EPA; certification and bond required; vehicle may be held up to 120 days post-entry | Typically £7,500–£22,000+; confirm with RI |
| Race car exemption | Permanent import of purpose-built race vehicles | Must be factory-built as a race car (no road car converted for track use) | Varies |
| Carnet (ATA) | Temporary admission for events/exhibitions | Vehicle returns abroad afterwards | Low cost |
Warning: CBP seizes and destroys vehicles imported outside the applicable route. There is no grey-area pathway for modern cars not meeting FMVSS standards.
If you are considering a Registered Importer route, engage a licensed US customs broker and a NHTSA-listed RI before the vehicle is purchased — not after. Costs and timelines vary significantly by vehicle type.
Shipping Methods: RoRo and Container
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) — standard running vehicles
RoRo is the default and most cost-effective method for driveable vehicles in standard condition. Vehicles are driven onto a car carrier vessel and secured for the voyage.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Suitable for | Running, driveable vehicles in standard condition |
| Non-running vehicles | Not accepted — dedicated container required |
| Personal effects permitted | No — the vehicle must be completely empty |
| Classic or luxury cars | Container strongly recommended |
| Left-hand drive | Accepted |
| Fuel | No more than a quarter tank |
| Insurance | Basic marine cover included; comprehensive available and recommended |
| Carriers | Wallenius Wilhelmsen, Höegh Autoliners (main UK-USA RoRo carriers) |
Container shipping — classic, high-value, non-running, and LHD vehicles
A dedicated container (20ft or 40ft) provides full enclosure and is the appropriate choice for classic and luxury cars, non-running vehicles, and LHD vehicles where the owner wants maximum protection.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| 20ft dedicated container | Fits 1–2 standard cars; from approximately £2,800 (indicative) |
| 40ft dedicated container | Fits up to 3–4 cars; can share with one other vehicle at customer’s request |
| Non-running vehicles | Accepted |
| Personal effects | Confirm at booking — all items must be declared to CBP |
| UK departure port for containers | Tilbury (London) and Southampton |
No LCL (shared container) option: The USA route does not offer a less-than-container-load (LCL) shared service. Container shipping means a dedicated container only.
For more detail, see ShipCars’ container car shipping and RoRo car shipping service pages.
UK Departure Ports
| Port | Methods | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Southampton | RoRo (primary) | Main UK RoRo export terminal for USA and Americas; dedicated vehicle handling; multiple weekly sailings |
| Tilbury (London) | Container | Major container hub; used for dedicated container shipments |
ShipCars arranges collection from anywhere on the UK mainland and road transport to the departure port. The owner does not need to attend the port.
US Arrival Ports and Prices
ShipCars currently serves eight US ports with direct RoRo services from Southampton. All prices shown are indicative, for a standard saloon car, port-to-port, and subject to change. 4×4 and SUV vehicles carry a supplement of approximately £250–£350.
| US port | State / region | Starting from (RoRo saloon) | Indicative transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore, MD | East Coast | £986 | 11–16 days |
| Jacksonville, FL | South-East | £987 | 8–20 days |
| Brunswick, GA | South-East | £987 | 11–22 days |
| Charleston, SC | South-East | £1,182 | 11–22 days |
| Galveston, TX | Gulf Coast | £1,240 | 15–39 days |
| New York/NJ | North-East | £1,327 | 12–20 days |
| Port Hueneme, CA | West Coast | £1,477 | 22–36 days |
| Tacoma, WA | West Coast | £1,818 | 28–36 days |
All prices are indicative, port-to-port, standard saloon, based on ShipCars service page data as at October 2026. Fuel surcharges and shipping line rates apply. Request a current quote.
Choosing a US port
- Closest to your destination: In most cases the best port is the one closest to where the car will be registered and driven. After US customs clearance, ShipCars can arrange onward domestic transport to your location.
- Cost vs transit time: Baltimore is the cheapest East Coast option and generally the fastest from Southampton. New York/NJ costs £341 more than Baltimore for RoRo but may save onward road transport costs if your destination is the New York area.
- West Coast destinations: Port Hueneme (near Los Angeles/Ventura) and Tacoma (Seattle area) serve the West Coast. Long Beach (Los Angeles) is served through some container shipments — confirm at booking.
Shipping a Car to New York from the UK
New York and New Jersey (treated as one port complex) is one of the most requested US destinations from the UK — driven by relocating professionals, expats, and returning US nationals.
Port of New York and New Jersey (Port Newark / Port Elizabeth)
The vehicle arrival terminal for New York is Port Newark Marine Terminal and/or Port Elizabeth, within the Port of New York and New Jersey complex in Newark Bay, New Jersey. This is the primary RoRo vehicle handling terminal serving the New York metropolitan area.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| UK departure | Southampton (RoRo); Tilbury (container) |
| US arrival terminal | Port Newark / Port Elizabeth, New Jersey |
| RoRo from £ | £1,195 (small/standard car, all-inclusive indicative); standard saloon from £1,327 (port-to-port) |
| Large SUV/4×4 | From £1,500 (all-inclusive indicative) |
| Transit time | 12–20 days (sea) |
| Sailing frequency | Weekly direct sailings (confirm current schedule with ShipCars) |
| Container | Available; pricing on application |
New York vs Baltimore: Baltimore (11–16 days, from £986) is the cheaper and often faster East Coast option. For a destination in New York City, Long Island, Connecticut, or New Jersey, the New York/NJ port may eliminate onward domestic transport costs that would otherwise close the gap. For destinations further from the port — upstate New York, New England — Baltimore may still be more economical overall. Request a comparison quote.
New York state registration
After CBP clearance at Port Newark/Elizabeth, vehicles must be registered with the New York State DMV (or the DMV of the state where the car will primarily be kept). Key New York-specific points:
- Right-hand drive vehicles: Not federally prohibited, but New York State has its own inspection requirements. A New York state safety inspection is mandatory before registration; ensure your RHD vehicle can pass the inspection process (lights, signals, and emissions may need attention).
- Foreign-registered vehicles: A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is required for New York DMV registration. A US-compatible VIN may need to be assigned for older UK vehicles.
- Emissions inspection: New York is a participating state in the federal emissions inspection programme. Vehicles over 25 years old (EPA-exempt) may still need a visual emissions inspection at New York state level — confirm with the NYSDMV or a registered inspection station.
- Title: A clear US title document (from CBP entry) is required for New York DMV registration.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from the UK to the USA?
Sea freight costs (ShipCars)
| Method | Cost (indicative) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RoRo — standard saloon | From £986 (Baltimore) to £1,818 (Tacoma) | Port-to-port; see port table above |
| RoRo — 4×4 / SUV supplement | +£250–£350 | On all RoRo routes |
| RoRo — New York/NJ saloon | From £1,195–£1,327 | All-inclusive vs port-to-port basis; confirm at booking |
| Dedicated 20ft container | From approximately £2,800 | Indicative; port and sailing-date dependent |
| Dedicated 40ft container | Higher — request a quote | Can accommodate up to 3–4 cars |
US in-country costs (payable in the USA)
| Cost item | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| US import duty | 7.5% of customs value (in-quota) or 25% (above-quota) | Per US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal (EO 14309, June 2025); quota = 100,000 UK vehicles/year from 2026; verify current status with US customs broker |
| Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) | ~0.125% of declared value | CBP levy |
| Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) | ~0.3464% of declared value (min $32.71, max $614.35) | CBP levy |
| CBP customs broker fee | Variable | Licensed US customs broker strongly recommended |
| DOT Form HS-7 filing | Minimal | Typically included in broker fee |
| EPA Form 3520-1 filing | Minimal | Typically included in broker fee |
| DOT compliance bond (if required) | ~150% of vehicle value | Only required for non-exempt vehicles undergoing RI conversion |
| Registered Importer compliance (if required) | £7,500–£22,000+ | Only for modern vehicles under 25 years; not applicable to 25-year-exempt cars |
| State DMV registration, title, plates | Variable | Set by destination state |
| Onward domestic transport | Variable | ShipCars US partners available if required |
For a full overview of shipping costs across all destinations, see our international car shipping costs guide.
US Vehicle Import Duty and the US-UK Trade Deal
Current duty position — October 2026
This section contains a material conflict with ShipCars’ service page, which currently states a 2.5% duty rate for passenger vehicles. Research indicates this rate was superseded in June 2025.
Under US Executive Order 14309 (16 June 2025), implemented via Federal Register notice 2025-12060 (30 June 2025), UK passenger vehicles (HTSUS HTS 8703) are now subject to a revised tariff structure under the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal:
| Quota position | HTS code | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| In-quota (within 100,000 UK vehicles/year from 2026) | 9903.94.31 | 7.5% of customs value |
| Above-quota (above 100,000 UK vehicles/year) | Standard Section 232 | 25% of customs value |
The quota is administered in order of CBP arrival and monitored through ACE (Automated Commercial Environment). Quota Bulletin 25-508 governs filing and monitoring.
Sources: CBP — US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal guidance (Cole International); Federal Register notice 2025-12060, 30 June 2025.
What this means for most buyers: For a single vehicle — one private individual shipping their own car — the 100,000-vehicle annual quota is large enough that in-quota status at 7.5% is the likely outcome for the foreseeable future. The above-quota 25% rate is a risk for commercial importers shipping at scale. However, the US-UK trade framework is subject to ongoing political negotiation. Verify the current applicable rate with a licensed US customs broker before purchasing or booking.
Duty basis
Import duty is assessed on the customs value of the vehicle, typically based on the transaction value (purchase price) or, if CBP disagrees, an assessed value. For personal-use imports, the declared value on the commercial invoice or bill of sale is the starting point.
25-year exempt vehicles and duty
The 25-year rule exempts vehicles from FMVSS and EPA compliance — it does not exempt them from import duty. A classic car 25 years or older still pays the applicable duty (7.5% in-quota) plus Harbor Maintenance Fee and Merchandise Processing Fee.
CBP, EPA, and DOT Customs Clearance
US customs clearance at the destination port is handled by a licensed US customs broker. ShipCars can recommend US customs partners. Key clearance steps:
- CBP entry declaration filed by your customs broker after vessel arrival
- EPA Form 3520-1 (Declaration for Imported Motor Vehicle Subject to Federal Air Pollution Standards) — filed for all vehicles; states the applicable exemption
- DOT Form HS-7 (Declaration of Importation of Motor Vehicle) — filed for all vehicles; states the applicable DOT exemption or conformance basis
- CBP examination — physical inspection at CBP’s discretion; vehicles passing biosecurity requirements are released
- Duty payment — at the applicable rate (7.5% in-quota; confirm current status)
- Vehicle release — typically 3–7 working days after vessel arrival
US biosecurity and vehicle cleanliness
US Customs and Border Protection enforces strict biosecurity requirements for imported vehicles. A vehicle arriving dirty — carrying soil, plant material, insects, or organic matter — may be quarantined and fumigated at the importer’s cost, or refused entry in serious cases. Clean the vehicle thoroughly, inside and out, before shipping. This is not optional.
What Documents Do I Need to Ship a Car from the UK to the USA?
UK export documents (ShipCars handles the UK export declaration)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Original V5C logbook | DVLA permanent export notification; retain a copy |
| Passport photo page copy | |
| Proof of address | Utility bill or bank statement, under 3 months old |
| Commercial invoice / Bill of Sale | Accurate declared value — used by CBP for duty assessment |
| Vehicle condition report | Completed by ShipCars on collection |
| ShipCars booking confirmation |
US import documents (via your US customs broker)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Original Bill of Lading | Issued by ShipCars; required for CBP entry |
| Commercial invoice / Bill of Sale | Accurate declared value; consistent with UK export documentation |
| EPA Form 3520-1 | Filed by your US customs broker; states the applicable emissions exemption (21-year, 25-year, or compliance basis) |
| DOT Form HS-7 | Filed by your US customs broker; states the applicable DOT exemption or RI conformance basis |
| CBP entry declaration | Filed by your US customs broker |
| Proof of vehicle age (for 25-year exempt vehicles) | Build plate/label, certificate of origin, build sheet, or VIN manufacturer decode; not first registration date |
| Registered Importer documentation (if applicable) | Only for modern sub-25-year vehicles using RI route |
| ISF (Importer Security Filing) | Filed by your customs broker minimum 24 hours before vessel departure from UK |
| Marine insurance certificate (if comprehensive cover purchased) |
Vehicle Preparation Requirements
US Customs and the shipping carriers enforce specific preparation standards. Failure to comply can result in delays, quarantine costs, or CBP refusal.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fuel level | No more than a quarter tank |
| Personal effects | Completely empty — RoRo requires zero personal items; container may permit declared effects, confirm with ShipCars |
| Battery | Fully charged and functional (required for RoRo drive-off) |
| Alarm | Deactivated before loading |
| Tyres | Inflated to correct pressure |
| Cleanliness | Clean inside and out — US biosecurity strictly enforced; soil, insects, plant material = quarantine or fumigation at importer’s cost |
| Vehicle condition | Good general condition; any mechanical issues declared at booking |
Marine Insurance for Car Shipping to the USA
Basic marine insurance is included in the ShipCars USA quote. Comprehensive cover is strongly recommended, particularly for valuable or classic vehicles, and should be selected at booking.
| Coverage level | Included? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | ✅ Included | Covers total loss (sinking, fire, stranding); limited scope — confirm exact coverage with ShipCars |
| Comprehensive (strongly recommended) | Additional cost | Covers cosmetic damage, handling damage, water ingress in addition to total loss; condition report required at collection |
| Covered (comprehensive) | Not covered (any policy) |
|---|---|
| Total loss from sinking, fire, collision | Pre-existing damage |
| Water ingress damage | Personal effects in the vehicle |
| Loading/unloading handling damage | Mechanical/electrical failure |
| Cosmetic dents and scratches in transit | US compliance conversion costs |
Can I Ship a Classic Car to the USA?
Shipping a classic car to the USA is one of the most common reasons UK buyers use this route, and the USA is one of the most receptive markets in the world for classic British cars. Key considerations:
- 25-year rule: Cars 25 years or older are fully eligible for permanent import under the DOT exemption. Classic cars — Jaguars, Bentleys, Land Rovers, MGBs, Triumph TR6s, early Range Rovers — generally predate the threshold by a comfortable margin. Verify the specific manufacture date.
- Container recommended: A dedicated container (FCL) provides the appropriate level of protection for a classic. Do not ship a classic vehicle RoRo unless it is robust and in regular driving use. See ShipCars’ classic car shipping service.
- Duty still applies: The 25-year rule exempts from FMVSS only. Import duty (currently 7.5% in-quota) and CBP fees still apply.
- US market for UK classics: Many classic British cars are left-hand drive in US-market versions; a RHD UK classic may have a narrower buyer pool but strong collector appeal in certain segments. State DMV registration requirements for RHD vary.
Can I Ship a Left-Hand Drive Car from the UK to the USA?
Left-hand drive vehicles are accepted for both RoRo and container. The USA drives on the right, so LHD vehicles are the standard configuration and no regulatory issue arises from drive-side. LHD vehicles registered in the UK (imported European cars, for example) are treated the same as any other vehicle for US import purposes.
Can I Ship a Right-Hand Drive Car to the USA?
Right-hand drive vehicles are not federally prohibited in the USA, but two practical issues arise:
- State registration: Some US states impose additional requirements or inspections for RHD vehicles. Check with the DMV of your destination state before purchasing the vehicle — requirements vary significantly.
- Age: For a 25-year-exempt classic, RHD is generally not a barrier at the federal level. For a modern RHD vehicle requiring Registered Importer conversion, the RI must certify the vehicle meets FMVSS — including any standards that implicitly assume LHD configuration. Discuss with your RI before committing.
Step-by-Step: The Complete Process from Booking to Driving in the USA
Step 1 — Verify vehicle eligibility before purchasing
Check the manufacture date. If 25 years or older from manufacture month/year: eligible for permanent import under the DOT exemption. If under 25: identify the applicable import route (temporary tourist, Show or Display, Registered Importer, or race car) before purchasing. Engage a US customs broker at this stage if the route is not straightforward.
Step 2 — Confirm destination port and duty position
Choose your US destination port from the eight options (or request a container-only quote for Long Beach). Verify the current applicable import duty rate with a US customs broker — currently 7.5% in-quota under the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal, subject to change.
Step 3 — Book with ShipCars
Choose your method (RoRo for running vehicles; dedicated container for classic, non-running, LHD, or high-value cars). ShipCars arranges UK collection, condition report, UK export declaration, and the ISF filing (Importer Security Filing, required 24 hours before UK departure) through their customs clearance partner.
Step 4 — Prepare the vehicle and UK export documents
Gather the original V5C (DVLA permanent export notification). Prepare the commercial invoice/bill of sale, proof of address, and passport copy. Photograph all existing damage with dates. Clean the vehicle thoroughly inside and out — US biosecurity is strictly enforced. Reduce fuel to a quarter tank. Deactivate alarms.
Step 5 — Vehicle collection and UK port loading
ShipCars collects from anywhere in the UK. A condition report is completed. The vehicle is transported to Southampton (RoRo) or Tilbury (container) and loaded. The Bill of Lading is issued.
Step 6 — Sea transit (11–36 days depending on destination port)
The vessel departs from Southampton. Transit times vary by destination port — from 11–16 days to Baltimore through to 28–36 days to Tacoma.
Step 7 — US customs clearance at the destination port
Your US customs broker files the CBP entry declaration, EPA Form 3520-1, and DOT Form HS-7. CBP examines the documentation and vehicle. Duty (7.5% in-quota — verify current rate) plus Harbor Maintenance Fee and Merchandise Processing Fee are assessed and paid. Clearance typically takes 3–7 working days.
Step 8 — Vehicle release and state DMV registration
After CBP release, the vehicle is collected from the port. The vehicle must be registered with the state DMV of the destination state. Title documents, CBP entry papers, proof of insurance, and (for New York) a state safety inspection are required.
Total timeline: approximately 6–10 weeks from UK booking to vehicle available for registration, depending on destination port and clearance time.
Pre-Shipment Checklist Before Your Car Sails to the USA
- Vehicle manufacture date confirmed — month and year (not first registration date) — against 25-year eligibility threshold
- Import route confirmed for vehicles under 25 years old (temporary tourist, Show or Display, RI conversion, or race car) — confirmed with US customs broker before purchasing
- US import duty position confirmed with a licensed US customs broker — currently 7.5% in-quota under US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal; status and quota position verified
- Destination port chosen from the 8 available options; onward domestic transport confirmed if required
- US customs broker engaged — for CBP entry forms, ISF filing, EPA 3520-1, DOT HS-7
- Original V5C logbook ready; DVLA permanent export notification completed; copy retained
- Commercial invoice / bill of sale prepared — accurate declared value consistent with insurance and customs valuation
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement, under 3 months old)
- Passport photo page copy
- Proof of manufacture date for 25-year exempt vehicles (build plate, build sheet, certificate of origin, or VIN manufacturer decode)
- Shipping method confirmed — RoRo or dedicated container (no LCL option on USA route)
- All existing damage photographed with dates
- Marine insurance — comprehensive strongly recommended; condition report arranged
- Fuel reduced to no more than a quarter tank
- Vehicle completely empty — no personal effects, tools, or belongings (RoRo: zero; container: all items declared)
- Battery fully charged and functional (RoRo)
- Alarm deactivated
- Vehicle thoroughly cleaned inside and out — US biosecurity
- Tyres inflated to correct pressure
- RHD vehicle? — destination state DMV requirements confirmed before purchasing
- Classic car? — dedicated container booked; specialist crating/tie-down confirmed; condition report arranged
- New York destination? — New York state safety inspection process confirmed; NYSDMV RHD requirements confirmed if applicable
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Shipping to the USA
How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to the USA?
RoRo prices start from £986 (standard saloon to Baltimore, port-to-port). New York/NJ costs from approximately £1,195–£1,327. West Coast ports (Port Hueneme and Tacoma) range from £1,477 to £1,818. A 4×4 or SUV supplement of approximately £250–£350 applies. Dedicated container shipping starts from approximately £2,800 for a 20ft container. US import duty (currently 7.5% in-quota under the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal) and CBP fees are additional and payable in the USA. Get a current quote.
How long does it take to ship a car from the UK to the USA?
Sea transit ranges from 11–16 days to Baltimore (the fastest East Coast port) to 28–36 days to Tacoma on the West Coast. New York/NJ is approximately 12–20 days. CBP clearance takes an additional 3–7 working days after vessel arrival. Total time from UK booking to vehicle available at the US port is typically 6–10 weeks depending on destination.
Can I permanently import a UK car to the USA?
Yes, if the vehicle qualifies. Cars 25 years or older (from manufacture month/year — not first registration date) are permanently importable under the US DOT 25-year exemption without FMVSS modification. In October 2026, this means cars manufactured on or before October 2001. Modern cars under 25 years old require a Registered Importer to certify FMVSS compliance — typically costing £7,500–£22,000+ — or can only be temporarily imported.
What is the US import duty on a UK car?
Under the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal (EO 14309, June 2025), UK passenger vehicles (HTS 8703) are currently subject to 7.5% of customs value for shipments within the annual quota (100,000 UK vehicles per year from 2026) or 25% above quota. The ShipCars service page currently states 2.5% — this pre-dates the June 2025 tariff revision. Verify the current applicable rate with a licensed US customs broker and CBP (cbp.gov) before booking.
What does the 25-year rule mean for importing a car to the USA?
The 25-year rule (Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act 1988) exempts vehicles 25 or more years old from US DOT/NHTSA FMVSS safety compliance requirements, allowing permanent import without modification or a Registered Importer. The EPA’s separate 21-year exemption covers emissions compliance. Together, they make cars from 2001 or earlier (as of 2026) straightforward to permanently import. Import duty, CBP fees, and state DMV registration still apply.
Can I ship a right-hand drive car to the USA?
Yes, RHD vehicles are not federally prohibited. However, some US states impose additional registration or inspection requirements for RHD vehicles. Check with the DMV of your specific destination state before purchasing. For modern RHD cars requiring Registered Importer conversion, discuss the implications of RHD configuration with the RI before committing.
Which US port should I ship to?
The port closest to your destination is usually best. Baltimore is the cheapest and often fastest East Coast option. New York/NJ is better for destinations within the New York metro area, Connecticut, or New Jersey, as it may save onward domestic transport costs. Galveston serves Texas and the Gulf South. Port Hueneme serves the Los Angeles area; Tacoma serves Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Request a comparison quote.
Is there a shared container (LCL) option for shipping to the USA?
No. The USA route does not offer a less-than-container-load (LCL) shared service. Container shipping on this route means a dedicated container only (20ft or 40ft). RoRo is the more economical option for standard running vehicles.
Can I ship personal belongings in the same container as my car?
Container shipments may permit personal effects — confirm at booking with ShipCars. All items must be declared to US Customs (CBP) on the entry declaration. Undeclared goods found during CBP examination can result in seizure, fines, and delay. RoRo shipments do not permit personal effects at all.
