Importing a Car from Germany to USA - Ship Car From Germany
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?
Importing a car from Germany involves compliance with EPA and DOT regulations, customs clearance, and proper documentation. You’ll need proof of ownership, a bill of lading, and forms HS-7 and EPA 3520-1 at port entry. Most importers hire licensed Registered Importers (RIs) and shipping specialists to manage modifications, duties, and delivery. Choosing a reputable international carrier can simplify the entire process. Learn more about full-service logistics through our international car shipping guide.
How much does it cost to import a car from Germany?
The average cost to import a car from Germany to the U.S. ranges between $1,500 and $5,000 via ocean freight, depending on the vehicle type, shipping method, and distance. Container shipping adds more protection but costs extra, while RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) is cheaper but exposes the car to the elements. Additional expenses like customs duty (2.5%), insurance, and port fees also apply. Compare international rates using our car shipping cost calculator.
What taxes and import duties apply when importing from Germany?
U.S. Customs charges a 2.5% duty for passenger cars, 2.4% for motorcycles, and 25% for trucks. Luxury or high-performance cars may also incur a gas guzzler tax if their fuel economy is below 22.5 MPG. Classic cars older than 25 years are exempt from safety and emission standards but may still require duty payment. Detailed U.S. Customs duty rates are available through licensed import brokers and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) site.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car from Germany to the USA?
The most economical method is RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) shipping, where your vehicle is driven onto and off the vessel. Costs typically range between $1,200 and $2,000 depending on port and vehicle size. To save more, schedule your shipment during off-peak seasons (winter) when carrier demand drops. For enclosed or classic vehicles, shared container shipping can offer both security and savings. Explore more details about RoRo shipping costshere.
How long does it take to import a car from Germany to the U.S.?
Transit from Germany to major U.S. ports (New York, Baltimore, or Houston) typically takes 3–5 weeks by sea, including 1–2 weeks for customs and inspections. The total timeline depends on departure schedules, port congestion, and documentation accuracy. Air freight is much faster (7–10 days) but considerably more expensive. Check average timelines for overseas deliveries on our international car shipping by sea page.
What documents are required to import a car from Germany?
You’ll need the bill of sale, foreign registration/title, bill of lading, EPA form 3520-1, and DOT form HS-7. If the vehicle is modified or non-conforming, a Registered Importer must handle compliance paperwork. Buyers should also retain purchase receipts and proof of German VAT exemption if exporting a new vehicle. Our what documents are required for international car shipping page outlines every form in detail.
Can I reclaim German VAT when exporting my car?
Yes. If you purchase a car in Germany for export outside the EU, you can usually reclaim the 19% VAT by providing export documentation and proof the vehicle left the EU. Most dealerships handle VAT refunds directly, though processing may take several weeks. Always request a tax-free purchase invoice if you intend to ship the vehicle to the U.S.
How do I prepare my car for shipping from Germany?
Clean the vehicle thoroughly, document its condition with photos, and remove all personal items. Secure or disable alarms and provide at least a quarter tank of fuel for RoRo transport. Make sure your title and customs paperwork are complete to avoid port delays. Using professional door-to-door auto transport service can ensure smoother handoff and final delivery. Learn more about preparation through our door-to-door auto transport overview.
Are there benefits to importing cars from Germany?
German imports are popular for their engineering quality, advanced safety features, and resale value. Importing directly can also save money on certain high-end or specialty vehicles unavailable in the U.S. Collectors and enthusiasts often use imports to access rare models or Euro-only configurations. Working with an experienced shipper helps streamline customs and maintain your vehicle’s original condition from pickup to delivery.
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