Introduction
As a professional working daily in international car logistics, I can confidently say: vehicle tariffs in the U.S. are far more than just numbers on paper. They are a powerful instrument that influences car prices, manufacturer strategies, and, most importantly, what consumers pay — and how much it costs for car transport.
At first glance, tariffs might seem like something only big corporations care about. But when a client asks, “How much does it cost to ship my car from Europe?” — tariffs are a key part of that final quote.
Current U.S. Tariff Rates
As of August 2025, the following import tariffs are in effect:
Passenger cars – 2.5%
Light trucks and pickups – 25%
Auto parts – Around 2.5%, depending on the category
Motorcycles – 0% to 2.4%
These tariffs don’t apply (or are significantly reduced) for countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the U.S., such as Canada, Mexico, and South Korea. That has a direct impact on car shipping cost and the overall viability of long-distance logistics — especially for high-volume imports.
The “Chicken Tax”: Old Law, Modern Consequences
Clients often ask why they can’t simply ship their car — for instance, a pickup truck — from Japan or Europe. The answer lies in the longstanding 25% tariff on light trucks, known as the “chicken tax”, introduced in 1964 as retaliation for European restrictions on U.S. poultry.
Today, this legacy tariff is one of the main barriers to importing foreign pickups. Many car shipping companies won’t even offer this service directly because of the cost. Automakers, instead, build factories in the U.S. to avoid the tariff — a clear example of how logistics must adapt to fiscal policy.
Impact on Consumers and the Industry
From a logistics perspective, the effects of tariffs are felt at every level:
For Consumers:
Higher end prices – including not just the vehicle itself, but the cost to ship a car, due to increased shipping fees and duties.
Fewer vehicle choices – some models are never imported at all because it’s not profitable.
Complications during relocation – people frequently ask: “How can I affordably ship my car to another state if it was originally imported?”
For Automakers and Logistics Providers:
Localization of production – manufacturers invest in U.S.-based assembly to bypass tariffs.
More complex supply chains – especially when building accurate car shipping quotes in a changing trade landscape.
Higher demand for domestic logistics – reliable car transport service within the U.S. has become a strategic necessity.
EVs and the New Era of Tariffs
Since 2024, the picture has become even more complex. The U.S. imposed a 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), citing unfair subsidies, cybersecurity risks, and national security concerns. This drastically changed how logistics companies handle EV imports.
Now, when planning international transport, we always consider:
Battery sourcing,
Country of assembly,
Whether a Free Trade Agreement applies.
These factors directly affect the final price for a client wanting to ship your car internationally.
Final Thoughts
Many still view car shipping as a simple service — just moving a vehicle from A to B. In reality, it’s a nuanced process where tariffs, law, global politics, and economics all play critical roles. A logistics specialist must not only move vehicles but also optimize costs, timing, and compliance.
If you’re planning to ship my car, whether across the country or overseas, understanding U.S. tariff policies can save you significant money and stress. In an industry where every detail matters, smart logistics are key to success — for businesses and individual customers alike. Get a Free shipping quote today and call now at (708) 802-1970.