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Import Vehicle from Germany to the USA: Import Car from Germany
Germany is a powerhouse in the global automotive industry, renowned for its precision engineering and luxury vehicles. Enthusiasts and collectors worldwide recognize Germany as the home of top-tier brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Maybach, vehicles that redefine performance and sophistication. Some Mercedes-Benz models can command prices of up to $450,000, while custom Maybachs can soar to an astonishing $1.5 million. Unsurprisingly, many American buyers seek to import a car from Germany to the USA, drawn by their superior craftsmanship and prestige.
Despite the strong presence of US-based car manufacturers, the demand for German car imports to the US remains high. Thousands of vehicles are shipped from Germany to the USA each month, arriving in all 50 states. However, given the high-value nature of these vehicles, the cost to import a car from Germany to the USA can be substantial, requiring careful handling and compliance with import duties from Germany to the USA. That’s why selecting an experienced auto shipping company is crucial.
At A-1 Auto Transport Inc., we specialize in importing cars from Germany to the USA, ensuring a seamless shipping process from start to finish. Our team handles every detail, from customs clearance to EPA and DOT compliance so that you can enjoy your German import car hassle-free.
Read on to learn more about importing vehicles to the USA.
Cost & Time Examples For Importing Cars from Germany to the USA
| From/To | Ocean | Ground | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berlin to (California port) to San Jose, CA | $3000 | $200 | 27+5 days |
| Hamburg to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $1500 | $400 | 41+5 days |
| Hamburg to (California port) to Las Vegas, NV | $2400 | $450 | 29+5 days |
| Berlin to (California port) to Portland, OR | $3000 | $475 | 27+6 days |
| Hamburg to (California port) to Seattle, WA | $2400 | $550 | 29+6 days |
| Hamburg to (New York port) to Columbus, OH | $1500 | $550 | 41+5 days |
| Berlin to (New York port) to Detroit, MI | $2200 | $575 | 41+6 days |
| Hamburg to (New York port) to Chicago, IL | $1500 | $675 | 41+6 days |
| Berlin to (California port) to Denver, CO | $3000 | $775 | 27+7 days |
| Berlin to (New York port) to Houston, TX | $2200 | $1,075 | 41+7 days |
- *Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
- *Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
- *Allow an additional ten days to process the documents.
- *Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a car internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
- *The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Why A-1 Auto Transport for Hauling Vehicle
For the past decade, we have specialized in transporting automobiles. We understand the auto import business thoroughly, down to the smallest of details. Our expertise is unmatched as the only company to provide coast-to-coast, interstate, and international auto transport services in the United States.
We are affiliated with the busiest ports in America and the biggest cargo airlines in America. Wherever you are, rest assured that we shall deliver your car to your doorstep in perfect condition. Moreover, we offer real-time car shipping GPS tracking so our clients can watch their shipments when they import vehicles into the USA from Germany.
Our Process for Importing an Automobile
Planning
We must plan every step to get the vehicle(s) from Germany to American soil. We walk through the entire process of having cars imported to the USA with our clients, starting by identifying the vehicle make, model, year of manufacture (also known as the vehicle profile), and from which warehouse it’s coming. The vehicle’s particulars will significantly determine how much the shipping process will cost.
The means of transport are selected before the start of the shipping process. While air freight is recommended for luxurious vehicle imports such as a classic car, but ocean freight (in enclosed containers) is also an option. We offer both options to our clients, ensuring the vehicle is in perfect condition. While most car manufacturers will provide delivery services for a port of the client’s choice, some require clients to make personal arrangements. That’s why the location of the warehouse in Germany is vital in planning to transport the vehicle to the most convenient port or airport.
The planning also involves deciding which US port the vehicle is being shipped to and the mode of delivery to the client. We offer both door-to-door & terminal-to-terminal services.
Price estimation to send an automobile
Once the planning is set, we use our comprehensive car import cost calculator to provide an estimated quote for importing a car from Germany to the USA. Several factors influence the final cost, including the total shipping distance, vehicle profile, import duties from Germany to the USA, customs fees, and risk insurance.
Air freight is significantly more expensive than ocean freight, making it essential to choose the correct shipping method based on your budget and timeline. Check out our in-depth guide for a detailed breakdown of shipping a car from Germany to the USA. Keep in mind that this estimate serves as a baseline, and actual costs may vary depending on real-time shipping rates and regulations.
Documentation for Hauling an Automobile
German customs office authorities must clear the vehicle(s) before they can leave the port. This is done by taking care of all relevant documentation, including customs, duties, import taxes, and any other fees as deemed fit by the German authorities.
We also ensure the car carries the International Registration Marker. If you are a foreign national working in the US, be prepared to use your foreign license tags and an international driving permit. For US residents, temporary license plates are issued by the DMW until their own national license plates are ready. Motorists from a country not a party to traffic conventions must secure permits in the U.S., preferably before they import a car.
Documentation requirements also dictate that all vehicles bear the manufacturer's label on the engine compartment in English to reflect correspondence with US emission requirements. Where these requirements are not met, an independent commercial importer must import the car unless otherwise exempted or excluded. The vehicle will not be released until work is complete, and the fees are relatively high.
The documentation also includes a detailed pre-shipping car hauler inspection report, which records the vehicle’s profile and condition when our personnel receive it.
Automobile Moving
Once the car is cleared, it starts making its way to you. The client is provided with a travel schedule to get up to speed on the ETA. Air transport usually takes several hours a day, while transport by ocean takes longer a week or more.
Vehicle Delivery
Upon arrival on US soil, the relevant documentation (customs import duty, safety inspection, emissions checks, bill of lading, etc.) is taken care of, and our team will deliver the vehicle to you. Door-to-door delivery will see your vehicle delivered at the address you provide, while terminal-to-terminal delivery involves dropping off your vehicle at a designated pick-up point.
Need to import a car into the US from Germany? Talk to us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I import a car from Germany to the USA?
To import a car from Germany to the USA, you must comply with US import regulations, including EPA and DOT requirements. The process involves purchasing the vehicle, hiring a car shipping company, clearing customs, and paying import duties.
Before your German car can be brought into the United States, it will be thoroughly inspected by Customs personnel. They will be checking to ensure that it is equipped with required safety equipment to make the vehicle eligible for import, such as:
- Displays
- Anti-lock brakes
- Windshield wipers and washing system
- Defroster
- Electric brake systems
- Lamps and reflectors
- Anti-theft devices
- Seat belts
- Door locks
- Side impact protection
- Flame resistant interior
- Fuel components
German cars that do not have any of these features as required by law, then it will have to be modified. However, there are a few exceptions, which are outlined below.
What are the import duties from Germany to the USA?
Import duties from Germany to the USA vary based on the vehicle type. Passenger cars are subject to a 2.5% import tax, while motorcycles and trucks have different rates. Additional customs fees and shipping costs may apply.
If your German car does not meet NHTSA’s safety requirements, you will have a few options. The first will be to modify it so that it complies with U.S. safety standards. Our partner carriers will work with you to facilitate this process, but it will add to the overall cost of your import services.
If your motorcar cannot be modified or will be too expensive to do so, you can have it shipped back to Germany. The last option is to forfeit your car to Customs, allowing them to destroy it.
Note that vehicles belonging to members of foreign armed forces, foreign diplomatic personnel, or any individual cleared for free entry by the Department of State are exempt from this requirement. The same is true for those imported by nonresidents for personal use not exceeding a year and those temporarily imported for testing, demonstration, or competition.
Yes, the United States charges taxes on all vehicles being imported into the country. The fees will vary depending on which type of vehicle that you are importing.
In addition, your car may be subject to a “gas guzzler” tax, which will add to the cost of importing your vehicle. There are a few exemptions that may allow you to avoid paying import tariffs.
The tariff rate for a standard car, SUV, or minivan is 2.5%. This fee is calculated based on the purchase price. Let’s say that you purchased your automobile for $20,000. The tariff would be only $500.
The tariff for motorcycles is similar to the tax rate for cars, coming in at only 2.4%. The tax rate for pick-up trucks is much higher. If you import a truck, you will be charged a 25% tariff.
What is a Gas Guzzler Tax?
The Gas Guzzler tax is a fee that the government charges consumers when they buy a vehicle that is not fuel efficient. Dealers are also charged this tax when they are ordering and importing cars. The tax was implemented in 1978 as part of the Energy Tax Act.
However, the Gas Guzzler tax only applies to passenger cars. At the time it was implemented, SUVs, minivans, and crossovers were not as popular as they are today.
How Much is the Gas Guzzler Tax?
The Gas Guzzler tax rates fluctuate, depending on how low the fuel mileage is on your car. The law requires passenger cars to get a combined MPG of at least 22.5. The tax is laid out in a tier system. The lower your combined MPG, the higher the tax will be.
If your German car gets between 21.5 and 22.5 MPG combined, then your tax will be $1,000. However, if it is under 12.5 combined MPG, then your fee will be a staggering $7,000 to $7,700.
How much does it cost to import a car from Germany?
The cost to import a car from Germany to the USA depends on factors like shipping method (ocean vs. air freight), vehicle value, customs duties, and insurance. On average, shipping a car from Germany to the USA via ocean freight can cost $1,500-$5,000, while air freight is significantly higher.
If your goal is to maximize savings with our car shipment services, then we recommend scheduling RoRo ocean freight shipping during non-peak season.
Many of our carriers offer discounts during non-peak winter months because there is a lower demand for shipping services. Scheduling transportation services during the winter and opting for RoRo shipping is the cheapest way to import car from Germany.
What is RoRo Hauling?
RoRo stands for “roll-on/roll-off.” It is the cheapest ocean freight shipping method available. The carrier will drive your motorcar onto the ship and secure it to the deck. When the ship arrives at the final destination, the carrier will drive it off of the deck and turn it over to you.
The primary drawback of RoRo shipping is that your automobile is not protected from the elements. It will be subjected to inclement weather and ocean water during the journey. That is why A-1 Auto Transport recommends container shipping if you are importing a rare or classic car.
What is Container Transport?
When you select container shipping, your car will be stored in a dedicated 20 ft steel cargo container. It will be strapped down within the container so that it does not shift or roll during vehicle shipping.
If you want to save money, you can opt for shared container shipping and have your vehicle shipped with other cars. This means that other items will be stored in the container with your automobile, but nothing will be stacked on or placed inside of the vehicles.
Yes, A-1 Auto Transport offers tons of cost-saving opportunities to our customers. However, not all of these discounts are available year-round. The best way to learn about the latest discounts is to contact our sales team.
We offer discounts for:
- Seniors
- Veterans
- Dealers
- Off-season imports
- Students
The savings options listed above are just a few of the ways that we help our clients get a great deal.
Remember, your vehicle is about to travel thousands of miles on a massive ocean vessel. Not only is it going to be handled by the shipping company, it is also going to be handled by ground carriers, loading crew members, and other logistics staff.
If you want to make sure that your car makes it to your new home without any delay, it is vital that you have it ready to go when the carrier arrives. In order to prepare your car for international shipping, we recommend that you:
Clean the Vehicle
Even if you just purchased the motor vehicle, thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior. This will make it easier to detect any damage when your vehicle arrives.
While damage during the import process is rare, it is still important that you thoroughly inspect the vehicle when it arrives.
Gather the Necessary Vehicle Documents
Before turning your motor vehicle over to the carrier, it is important that you collect several essential documents. Without this paperwork, the carrier will be unable to take possession of your car.
At a minimum, you will need:
- Bill of sale displaying the VIN
- Proof of ownership
- Bill of lading (Provided by the carrier)
The bill of lading contains valuable information about your car. This includes the year, make, model, and VIN. It should also outline where your car is being transported to.
Photograph the Vehicle
Before providing your car to the carrier, we recommend photographing both the interior and exterior. You should also photograph the odometer. This gives you plenty of supporting proof in the event that you need to file an insurance claim.
If your car suffers any damage during the import process, make sure to notify our team immediately and provide a copy of these photographs.
What is the 25-Year Rule?
The 25-Year Rule is an exemption for imported vehicles that are over 25 years old. If your German imported vehicle was manufactured at least 25 years ago, then it does not have to adhere to U.S. vehicle safety requirements. This means that you do not have to pay for costly modifications.
What is the Show and Display Rule?
The Show and Display Rule is another potential exemption to NHTSA safety requirements. If an imported car is deemed to be rare and technologically significant, then it does not have to comply with U.S. safety requirements.
In order to qualify, the imported car from Germany cannot be:
- Currently in production
- Available domestically
- A replica
Vehicles that meet these requirements are often exotic and incredibly expensive.
Importing a car from Germany with the help of A-1 Auto Transport has many benefits. The three most common reasons that people choose to import German cars is that it allows them to:
Save Money
Even after paying the customs duty, purchasing a car directly from German auto manufacturers can be cheaper than buying it domestically from a private seller. Many of our clients have used our services to save cash while also getting a high-quality foreign vehicle or even a cool classic car.
Obtain a Rare Vehicle
While many German automakers are active in the U.S. marketplace, they may not offer their complete line of cars for domestic purchase. If you want to get your hands on a rare or unique classic car, importing it is sometimes the only option.
Relocating
Students that are studying abroad and professionals that accept international assignments will sometimes purchase a vehicle while they are overseas. When they conclude their studies or wrap up their latest project, they often want to bring their car from Germany back to the U.S. with them. That is where we come in!
A-1 Auto Transport makes it easy for them to protect their investment and import their car to the states.
Yes, ensure the vehicle conforms to U.S. safety standards and laws. It must also be compliant with state traffic and vehicle safety requirements. There are a few exceptions, such as vehicles that are over 25 years old and those that qualify for import under the “Show and Display” rule.
Do I Need to Be Present During Loading?
Yes, you or a representative need to be present during the loading process. If you cannot be present, make sure to let our sales team know well in advance. We will facilitate the import process and coordinate with the dealer or your representative.
Do I Need to Be Present When My Vehicle is Delivered?
Generally, yes, you need to be present when your car is delivered to the United States. However, it may take a few days to get customs clearance, especially for car shipments during peak import season.
A-1 Auto Transport or our partner carrier will notify you when your car is ready for pick-up.
If you are not able to retrieve your vehicle at the time of delivery, we can facilitate both short and long-term storage. We will need to arrange warehouse space with our network of partner carriers in advance, so please give us ample notice.
What If My Auto Cannot Be Modified?
If your car cannot be modified, then you will have two options. The first is to ship it back to Germany. You will have to pay for the return shipping out of your own pocket, which can be extremely expensive.
The second option is to surrender your car to Customs. They will destroy the nonconforming car since it is not eligible for import into the United States. Generally, this is the preferred choice if the vehicle is not very valuable.
Can I drive my German-imported car in the USA?
Yes, but it must comply with US safety, emissions, and import regulations before it can be registered and legally driven in the USA. Vehicles under the 25-year rule have fewer restrictions.
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