US Auto Import Duties & Tariffs

Understanding import duties and tariffs for vehicles entering the United States

Current rates and trade policies affecting vehicle imports

Overview

When importing a vehicle to the United States, the total import cost consists of two parts:

  • Base Duty: Standard import duty (2.5% for cars, 25% for trucks)
  • Tariff: Extra charges based on country of origin and trade policies

The rates depend on where the vehicle was manufactured and its North American content percentage.

Important

Tariff rates can change based on trade policies. Always verify current rates with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before importing.

United States

Total: 0%

  • Base duty: 0%
  • Tariff: 0%

Vehicles manufactured in the United States are exempt from all import duties and tariffs

Canada & Mexico

USMCA Eligible (75%+ Made in North America)

Passenger Vehicles:

  • Base duty: 0%
  • Tariff: 25% on non-North American content

Example: Vehicle with 80% NA content → 0% base + (25% × 20%) = 5% total

Pickup Trucks:

  • Base duty: 0%
  • Tariff: 0%

Example: $30,000 truck with 80% NA content → 0% total = $0

Not USMCA Eligible (<75% Made in North America)

Passenger Vehicles:

  • Base duty: 2.5%
  • Tariff: 25% on non-US content

Example: Vehicle with 0% US content → 2.5% base + (25% × 100%) = 27.5% total

Pickup Trucks:

  • Base duty: 25%
  • Tariff: 25% on non-US content

Example: $30,000 truck with 0% US content → 25% base + (25% × 100%) = 50% total = $15,000

Other Countries

China

  • Base duty: 2.5% (cars) / 25% (trucks)
  • Tariff: 25% + Section 301 tariff of 25% (gas) / 100% (electric)
  • Total for gas cars: 52.5%
  • Total for electric cars: 127.5%

Japan, South Korea, EU Countries, India

  • Base duty: 2.5% (cars) / 25% (trucks)
  • Tariff: 15%
  • Total: 17.5% (cars) / 40% (trucks)

United Kingdom

  • Base duty: 2.5% (cars) / 25% (trucks)
  • Tariff: 10%
  • Total: 12.5% (cars) / 35% (trucks)

Most Other Countries

  • Base duty: 2.5% (cars) / 25% (trucks)
  • Tariff: 25%
  • Total: 27.5% (cars) / 50% (trucks)

How to Check Current Rates

To get the most accurate and up-to-date tariff information for your specific vehicle:

  • Contact US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) directly.
  • Visit the official CBP website for current tariff schedules.
  • Consult with a licensed customs broker.
  • Check the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for your vehicle classification.

Official Resources

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