How to Import a Car from Germany to the USA in 2025

February 26, 2025 at 7:43 AM

Why Import Cars from Germany?

Germany is home to some of the most iconic and desirable cars in the world, making it a top destination for car enthusiasts, collectors, and luxury car buyers. Whether you're looking to import a classic Porsche, a high-performance BMW, or an electric vehicle (EV), understanding the process of importing a car from Germany to the USA is crucial.

This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of the entire process, including compliance requirements, costs, customs clearance, and registration. By following this roadmap, you can ensure your car import experience is smooth and hassle-free.

Germany is synonymous with automotive excellence. Brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen are globally renowned for their engineering precision, luxury features, and performance. Many U.S. buyers choose to import cars from Germany for several reasons:

Access to Exclusive Models: Some German car models are unavailable in the U.S. market.
Cost Advantages: Certain vehicles may be more affordable in Germany due to exchange rates or local pricing structures.
Classic Car Market: Germany is a hub for vintage and classic cars that are highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

For more insights into why importing German cars is so popular, visit our Germany car shipping services page.

Step 1: Understand U.S. Import Regulations

1.1 Compliance with EPA and DOT Standards

All vehicles imported into the U.S. must adhere to regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT). These standards ensure that imported cars meet U.S. safety and environmental requirements.

Key compliance areas include:

Emissions Standards: Vehicles must meet U.S. emissions regulations, which may differ from European standards. Non-compliant vehicles may require modifications or certifications before they can be registered in the U.S.
Safety Standards: Vehicles must comply with DOT safety features such as airbags, seat belts, and crash test ratings.

Exemption: Cars over 25 years old are exempt from EPA and DOT compliance requirements under the "25-Year Rule." Learn more about this exemption in our 2025 Guide to Shipping Cars to Germany.

1.2 Required Documentation

To ensure smooth customs clearance when importing a car from Germany, you’ll need:

Proof of Ownership: Title deed or purchase invoice.
Compliance Certificates: Documentation proving adherence to EPA and DOT standards (if applicable).
Shipping Documents: Provided by your shipping company with details about your shipment.
Customs Declaration Form: Submitted upon arrival in the U.S.

Step 2: Calculate Costs for Importing Cars from Germany

2.1 Shipping Costs

Shipping costs typically range between $1,500 and $3,000, depending on factors such as:

Shipping Method: Container shipping offers better protection but costs more than roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping.
Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles like SUVs incur higher shipping fees due to their size and weight.
Destination Port: Popular ports like New York or Los Angeles may have different handling fees compared to smaller ports.

For detailed cost estimates tailored to your needs, use our car shipping cost calculator.

2.2 Import Duties and Taxes

When importing a car into the U.S., you’ll need to pay import duties based on the vehicle’s value:

Passenger Vehicles: 2.5% of the declared value.
Trucks: 25% of the declared value.
Motorcycles: 0%–2.4% depending on engine size.

For example: If you’re importing a Mercedes-Benz valued at $60,000:

Import Duty=$60,000×0.025=$1,500

2.3 Additional Costs

Other potential costs include:

Insurance: Highly recommended during transit to protect against damage or loss.
Broker Fees: Hiring a customs broker can simplify the import process but adds extra costs.

Step 3: Choose Your Shipping Method

3.1 Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping

RoRo shipping involves driving your vehicle onto a specialized vessel for transport and then driving it off at the destination port. This method is cost-effective but offers less protection compared to container shipping.

Pros:

Lower cost compared to container shipping.
Ideal for operational vehicles.

Cons:

Limited protection against weather or damage during transit.

Learn more about RoRo shipping in our shipping methods guide.

3.2 Container Shipping

Container shipping involves placing your vehicle inside a secure container for transport. This method is ideal for high-value or non-operational vehicles.

Pros:

Maximum protection against weather and damage.
Ability to ship personal belongings alongside your vehicle.

Cons:

Higher cost compared to RoRo shipping.

Step 4: Navigate U.S. Customs Clearance

4.1 Filing Customs Paperwork

Upon arrival at the U.S. port, you’ll need to file customs paperwork with supporting documents such as proof of ownership and compliance certificates.

Key Forms Include:

CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)
EPA Form 3520-1 (Declaration Form)
DOT HS-7 Form (Declaration of Compliance)

4.2 Inspection Process

U.S. Customs will inspect your vehicle upon arrival to verify compliance with EPA and DOT standards as well as ensure all duties have been paid.

Common Issues During Inspection Include:

Incomplete paperwork.
Misdeclared vehicle value.
Non-compliance with safety or emissions standards.

Avoid delays by working with experienced professionals like West Coast Shipping who specialize in German car imports.

Step 5: Register Your Imported Vehicle in the U.S.

Once your vehicle has cleared customs, it’s time to register it in your state of residence.

Steps for Registration Include:

Obtain a title transfer from your local DMV.
Pass state-specific emissions tests (if applicable).
Provide proof of insurance coverage.

If you're looking for information on shipping cars in the opposite direction—from the USA to Germany—check out our 2025 Guide to Shipping Cars to Germany for insights on costs and customs processes for that route.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship a car from Germany to the USA?

Shipping times depend on the method chosen:

Air Freight: 3–10 days
Container Shipping: 25–38 days
RoRo Shipping: 30–45 days

Learn more about timelines on our Germany shipping services page.

Do I need insurance when importing cars?

While not mandatory, insurance is highly recommended during transit as it protects against potential loss or damage during shipment.

Explore your insurance options in our car shipping insurance guide.

What documents do I need to import a car from Germany to the USA?

To ensure smooth customs clearance, you’ll need:

Proof of ownership (title deed or purchase invoice).
Compliance certificates (EPA and DOT standards).
Shipping documents provided by your carrier.
Customs declaration forms (CBP Form 7501, EPA Form 3520-1, and DOT HS-7).

For a full breakdown of required paperwork, visit our Germany car shipping services page.

How long does it take to import a car from Germany to the USA?

The total shipping time depends on the method chosen:

Air Freight: 3–10 days.
Container Shipping: 25–38 days.
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): 30–45 days.

For more details on shipping timelines, check out our guide on international car shipping methods.

How much does it cost to import a car from Germany?

Costs typically include:

Shipping fees: $1,500–$3,000.
Import duties: 2.5% for passenger vehicles, 25% for trucks.
Additional costs: Insurance, modifications, and broker fees.

Use our car shipping cost calculator for an accurate estimate tailored to your vehicle and destination.

Are there exemptions for importing classic cars?

Yes! Vehicles over 25 years old are exempt from EPA and DOT compliance requirements under the "25-Year Rule." This makes importing classic cars from Germany much easier.

Learn more about exemptions in our 2025 Guide to Shipping Cars to Germany.

Do I need insurance when importing a car from Germany?

While not mandatory, insurance is highly recommended during transit. It protects against potential loss or damage during shipment.