U.S. Motor Vehicle Export Documentation

The documentation necessary is the U.S. Customs Shipper’s Export Declaration, which any freight forwarder can supply and help complete. The shipper must also provide to the Customs officer proof that the shipper has lawful ownership of the vehicle. This can take several forms: (1) an original (or certified copy) and two copies of a “Certificate of Title” issued by a state government (e.g., California Department of Motor Vehicles) which cites the Vehicle Identification Number; or (2) a certified original and two copies of a bill of sale or sales invoice which cites the Vehicle Identification Number.

The typical light truck or passenger car can be exported under the general export license procedure, which requires no separate application. However, if the vehicle has a military purpose the shipper must apply to U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), [formerly the Bureau of Export Administration] for a special license.

The ITA’s U.S. Export Assistance Center nearest to the U.S. port of export can provide assistance, or the shipper can contact BIS’s export counselors by phone or by submitting a contact form for export inquiries (East Coast:  tel: 202-482-4811; Contact form; West Coast:  tel: 949-660-0144; Contact form).  Additional BIS resources can be found on BIS’s Contact Us and About Learn & Support webpages.

Also, check out U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s webpage, Exporting a Motor Vehicle.

When exporting, particularly for the first time, it is often helpful to consult with a customs broker/freight forwarder. While the United States Government cannot recommend any private sector firm, a searchable membership directory can be found on website of the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America.

The Environmental Protection Agency webpage, EPA Requirements for Importers and Exporters, includes information regarding importing and exporting vehicles and engines.