Shipping a car to Kuwait from the USA can be a seamless process if you understand the costs, regulations, and procedures involved. Kuwait is an attractive destination for car imports due to its strong interest in luxury and classic vehicles.
The total cost of shipping a car from the USA to Kuwait is approximately $5,275 as of April 2025. Here's a breakdown of the costs:
Freight Costs: $4,800 for container shipping from New York to Shuwaikh Port.
Inland Transport: $275 for open delivery from New Jersey (07008) to New York port.
Cargo Damage Protection: $200.
You can save $1,225 by selecting Texas as your departure port instead of New York.
Destination charges at Shuwaikh Port are estimated at $850 (not included in the total above).
Shipping typically takes 50 days, including 35 days of ocean transit and 15 days for inland transport and export documentation processing.
For more details on the overall shipping process, visit our definitive guide.
Kuwait’s automotive market is renowned for its demand for luxury vehicles, classic cars, and high-performance models. The country’s affluent population and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal destination for car enthusiasts and collectors. Many expatriates also choose to import their vehicles when relocating due to personal preferences or better pricing compared to local markets.
Kuwait enforces strict regulations on imported vehicles to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. Here’s what you need to know:
Imported vehicles must be less than 5 years old.
Classic cars over 30 years old are exempt from age limits.
Vehicles in poor condition or with salvage titles may be rejected by customs.
All vehicles must meet Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards, which include:
Compliance with GCC emissions requirements.
Safety features that align with regional specifications.
A clean undercarriage free of foreign soil (to prevent contamination).
Proper documentation is crucial for customs clearance in Kuwait. Here’s what you’ll need:
Original Vehicle Title (clear ownership).
Bill of Sale or Commercial Invoice (proof of purchase).
Certificate of Conformity (issued by GCC-certified centers).
Power of Attorney (if applicable).
Valid Passport and Driver’s License.
Bill of Lading (shipping contract).
Kuwait imposes the following charges on imported vehicles:
Import Duty: 5% of CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
VAT: 10% of CIF value plus import duty.
For example, a vehicle valued at $20,000 would incur:
Import Duty: $1,000.
VAT: $2,100 (10% of $21,000).
Here’s how the process works from a US port to Shuwaikh Port in Kuwait:
Clean the undercarriage thoroughly.
Ensure all personal belongings are removed.
Verify that the vehicle meets GCC standards.
Choose between container shipping or RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) based on your budget and vehicle type:
Container shipping offers better protection but costs more.
RoRo is more affordable but exposes the vehicle to environmental elements.
Work with your shipping provider to prepare and submit all required paperwork, including export declarations and SASO compliance certificates.
The ocean transit from New York to Shuwaikh Port takes approximately 35 days. Upon arrival:
Customs officials will inspect your vehicle.
Pay applicable duties, taxes, and port fees.
Once your car clears customs, it must be registered with the Kuwait Traffic Department before it can be legally driven.
Obtain an inspection certificate verifying compliance with Kuwaiti safety and emissions standards.
Secure third-party liability insurance as required by Kuwaiti law.
Submit all documents to the Kuwait Traffic Department.
Pay registration fees and obtain number plates.
To ensure a smooth import process, follow these tips:
Start preparing your documents well in advance.
Verify that your vehicle complies with GCC standards before shipping.
Budget for additional costs like customs duties and VAT.
Work with an experienced shipping provider who understands Kuwaiti regulations.
For more details on container vs. RoRo shipping methods or timelines, refer to our comprehensive guide.
Shipping a car from the USA to Kuwait involves navigating specific regulations and costs but offers significant benefits for those seeking luxury or classic vehicles unavailable locally. By understanding the process and working with trusted logistics providers, you can ensure a hassle-free experience.
Ready to ship your car? Contact West Coast Shipping today for expert guidance tailored to your needs!