The Ultimate Guide to Importing Classic Cars to the USA (2025 Update)
🚗 Classic car import | Importing classic cars to the USA | How to import vintage cars | Classic car brokerage | Collector car import services
Introduction: Why Classic Car Imports Are Booming in 2024
The classic car market is thriving, with demand for vintage and collector cars surging in the USA. Enthusiasts, collectors, and dealers are increasingly looking to import classic cars from Europe and South America due to their superior craftsmanship, rarity, and historical value.
Whether it’s a Volkswagen T1 Splitscreen, a Land Rover Defender 110, or a Jaguar E-Type, importing a classic car can be an incredible investment—but it’s also a complex process.
This 2024 guide will walk you through everything you need to know about importing classic cars to the USA, from legal requirements to shipping costs, and how ClassicCo’s expert brokerage services can make the process seamless.
1. Legal Requirements for Importing Classic Cars to the USA
The US government strictly regulates vehicle imports, especially for non-US-manufactured cars. However, classic cars that are 25 years or older benefit from exemptions under the 25-year rule, making them significantly easier to import.
🔹 Key Regulations to Know
✔️ The 25-Year Rule
Cars over 25 years old are exempt from DOT (Department of Transportation) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulations related to emissions and safety standards.
The vehicle must be in original condition, meaning no major engine swaps or modifications.
✔️ EPA Exemptions
Vintage cars over 21 years old that retain their original engine are exempt from EPA emissions requirements.
✔️ NHTSA & DOT Compliance
If the car is under 25 years old, it must comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
Many non-US classic cars do not meet FMVSS, requiring modifications that can be costly and complicated.
✔️ Title and Ownership Verification
A clear title and history are required to prove the car is legally obtained and free of liens.
A bill of sale and an export certificate from the original country are mandatory.
🚨 Pro Tip:
Always check the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations before importing. ClassicCo ensures all legal requirements are met before shipment, avoiding costly delays.
2. Cost Breakdown: Duties, Shipping, and Customs Fees
The cost of importing a vintage car varies based on the vehicle’s value, shipping method, and import taxes.
🔹 Shipping Options for Classic Cars
🚢 Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping
• Cheapest option, with prices starting at $1,500.
• Vehicle must be in running condition.
• No personal items can be stored in the car.
📦 Container Shipping
• More expensive, but offers added security.
• Ideal for high-value collector cars.
• Allows extra spare parts to be shipped.
🚨 Pro Tip:
Use specialized classic car insurance to protect your vehicle during transit. ClassicCo partners with top-tier insurance providers for full coverage.
3. Best Classic Cars to Import from Europe & South America
Many of the best classic cars for import come from the UK, Germany, Italy, and Brazil. Here’s why:
🔹 Top European Classic Cars to Import
✔️ Land Rover Defender 110 (1990s) – Legendary off-roader, investment-grade classic.
✔️ Jaguar E-Type (1960s-70s) – Iconic British sports car with rising value.
✔️ Porsche 911 (Pre-1998 air-cooled models) – Classic collectible with appreciating value.
✔️ Mercedes-Benz 280SL “Pagoda” – Rare European luxury convertible.
🔹 Top South American Classic Cars to Import
✔️ Volkswagen T1 & T2 Splitscreen (1950s-70s) – A favorite among collectors and businesses.
✔️ Chevrolet Opala (Brazil) – Rare muscle car with growing demand.
✔️ Ford Maverick GT (Brazil) – Affordable alternative to US muscle cars.
4. How ClassicCo Simplifies the Import Process
Importing a classic car can be time-consuming and risky without expert guidance. That’s where ClassicCo comes in.
🚀 Why Choose ClassicCo for Your Classic Car Import?
✔️ Trusted Classic Car Brokerage – Over $5M worth of classic cars sourced for US dealers and collectors.
✔️ Boots-on-the-Ground Service – Direct inspections in the UK, Europe, and Brazil to ensure authenticity.
✔️ Transparent Cost Breakdown – No hidden fees, all import costs outlined upfront.
✔️ Expert Legal Handling – We take care of customs, duties, and compliance paperwork.
✔️ Secure Shipping Partners – We arrange insured RoRo or container shipping to ensure your car arrives safely.
🚀 Ready to Import Your Dream Classic?
👉 Get expert help from ClassicCo today
Final Thoughts: Is Importing a Classic Car Worth It?
If you’re looking for a rare, high-value investment or a dream classic car, importing is absolutely worth it.
With ClassicCo handling the process, you get hassle-free sourcing, legal compliance, and secure delivery—all while saving money on unique vehicles that are often cheaper abroad than in the US.
📞 Get in touch for a free consultation →
