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US Classic Cars Import Vintage Cars from USA – Full Service by Global Logistic Group
As experienced import specialists, we guide you through the entire process when you wish to import a classic car from the USA. Our expertise covers all aspects of vehicle shipping, from collection at the seller’s location to delivery to your doorstep. Our specialists professionally handle the complex customs procedures, while you can relax and look forward to your new classic car.
Especially when importing a US classic car, you benefit from our long-standing cooperation with American dealers and private sellers. We organize secure transport even from remote locations and ensure proper shipping across the Atlantic. We take care of all necessary documents and certificates required for a smooth import into Germany.
May we import a classic car for you? Then please send us an email or use our contact form.
When is a car considered a classic car?
A vehicle is generally considered a classic car if it is at least 30 years old and its condition can be described as almost original. In this case, it may be imported into the European Union duty-free under certain circumstances, or only the legally stipulated 7% import VAT will be applied.
Duty-free import of classic cars
Whether a classic car may be imported duty-free is decided by the European customs authority after a thorough inspection. This is, of course, different when importing into Switzerland. Our employees with years of experience in classic car imports not only handle the customs clearance of your dream car but also deliver it safely to any location you desire. Our door-to-door solution is a popular service. This way, you can quickly enjoy your imported vehicle.
Import US Classic Cars Duty-Free from 30 Years of Vehicle Age
The applicable EU customs regulations allow for the import of classic cars from America without incurring customs duties. The prerequisites for this are a minimum age of 30 years and proof of the vehicle’s original condition. This regulation applies equally to authentic classic cars from American and European manufacturers.
Crucial for duty-free import is the correct documentation of the vehicle’s condition and originality. Hot rods, replicas, or heavily modified vehicles do not fall under this preferential treatment and are subject to the regular customs duties of 10 percent. The final assessment is carried out by the European customs authorities, and we will optimally prepare you for this inspection with our experience. Our team knows the specific requirements and ensures a professional application process when importing a classic car from the USA.
Save costs when importing classic cars from the USA
By strategically using the port of Bremerhaven instead of Rotterdam, German customers can achieve significant savings. The shorter transport routes not only reduce the costs of importing classic cars from the USA but also significantly shorten delivery times. In addition, language barriers are eliminated, as our German-speaking employees handle all formalities directly on-site.
The favorable climatic conditions in US states such as California, Arizona, and Florida ensure excellent preservation of vehicles. As a result, you often find well-preserved youngtimers and classic cars there that would already be significantly more expensive or difficult to find in Europe. European brands that were sold in the USA and are now returning to Europe are also particularly interesting.
Only pay 7% tax when importing a classic car from the USA
The reduced tax rate of only 7 percent import VAT makes importing particularly attractive for collectors and enthusiasts. This preferential treatment has been in effect since 2014 due to harmonized EU customs regulations and represents a significant saving compared to regular VAT. For a duty-free import, only these 7 percent are applied to the declared vehicle value.
It is important to correctly assess the value of the vehicle, as this serves as the basis for tax calculation. Our experts support you in the valuation and ensure a realistic assessment that stands up to customs authorities and optimizes your costs. Transparent calculation of all applicable fees is part of our service when you want to import US classic cars.
Importing classic cars from the USA: transparent cost calculation
You will receive a detailed cost breakdown before the import process begins. This includes all items from collection in the USA to shipping and customs clearance in Germany. We do not have hidden costs – you know from the outset what investment you are facing when you import classic cars from the USA.
Calculable factors include transport costs within the USA, shipping fees, insurance during transport, and all official fees. If disposal of R12 refrigerants becomes necessary, our certified employees will also take on this task, including the corresponding documentation. This way, you can be sure that your dream vehicle will soon arrive safely with you.
Good reasons to work with GLG Global Logistic Group
high quality standards
Long-standing experience & expertise
Close & direct contact
Trust and reliability
Process & Handling
1. Delivery to us / pickup by us
Our warehouse is in Bremerhaven not far from the port. You can have your items delivered to us or we will pick them up from you throughout Germany.
2. Transport with customs clearance in destination country
We pack everything professionally and create both a parts list and all necessary customs documents in accordance with export and import regulations.
3. Complete handling with fees & delivery to destination address
Our service naturally also includes handling at the destination port from receipt through interim storage to delivery to the final destination.
