Bringing Home the Classics: Importing Your Dream Classic Car to the USA

Подписаться 311

Просмотров 19 тыс.

50% 1

Are you a classic car enthusiast looking to bring a piece of automotive history to the United States? Look no further! In this video, I'll walk you through the process of importing a vintage car from abroad. From finding the perfect vehicle, to navigating customs and regulations, to getting it roadworthy in the US. I'll share our tips and tricks for a successful import, and showcase my classic Mini that made the journey from Europe to America.
Don't forget to hit the subscribe button and stay tuned for our next videos!
Instagram: benbomcars

Авто/Мото

Опубликовано:

28 июн 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 172

@FpsWrex Год назад

If there is anyone that looks like they drive an old Mini Cooper from the 70s… it’s this dude.

@oleksigoriachek7428 4 месяца назад

Congratulations on your beautiful MINI! For shipping I hired GTA (Global Transport Amsterdam) I was very happy with them. Shipping price from Italy to Baltimore MD was less then 3K$. They handle all the shipping process.

@DevonReclaimed 2 года назад

Thank you so much for this valuable information I can't wait to begin my journey towards owning a classic Mercedes G-wagon Diesel 💪

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Ah that’s so exciting! Are you getting one of the Swiss or Austrian ex military ones? I’ve totally be interested in doing that as well!

@DevonReclaimed 2 года назад

@@benbomcars lately I've been on the fence with a really nice w-461 civilian model but there are also some really interesting decommissioned Alpine rescue vehicles with awesome custom configurations you can't find anywhere else, like a two-door long wheelbase with a tall roof and barn doors in the back!

@caylandboston4310 2 года назад

They’re much cheaper over there aren’t they?

@USArmy19DScout 2 года назад

So how did it go? I’m in the process myself.

@jasmith001 Год назад

That has to be one of the most concise and helpful videos on RU-vid ever. Impressive how much info you packed into just 11 minutes. Bravo. One question: did you import as a private buyer or did you get a dealership/business license? I’m in WA as well and curious if there are benefits to one or the other. Do you know?

@benbomcars Год назад

Thank you for the kind words! I had imported it as a private buyer. The main benefits I can think of to importing as a business is easy access to dealer plates and insurance (so it can be picked up and driven from the port without prior registration or needing to tow), and I imagine some tax benefits as well that I am just guessing. Getting a dealers license is difficult however, in WA (and I imagine other states?) you need a physical office and lot, along with regular opening hours, so I didn’t look into that much at all. I’m no expert on the dealership side of things though so take my words above with a big grain of salt! I had no problem importing on my own though.

@yappingaboutcars Год назад

Incredible resource! Thank you!

@joshuabrown3654 Год назад

This is great! I loved the information and it was presented very well! Cool little camera setups and stuff!

@SUPER_HELPFUL 2 года назад

This is the BEST video on importing a car, regardless of the country. Thank you so much man, I come back to this video on occasion as a refresher.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

This means a ton! Thank you so much, and please feel free to ask any questions if you're planning on importing a car!

@Garageaholic 2 года назад

Wow - This was one HELL of an episode. So informative, detailed, and well organized. I would like to have known the overall costs. Just to communicate to your followers what a ballpark figure would be. I am looking to import a 25 year old E36 wagon to NY and am not quite sure on how much it would be on top of the cost of the car to ship. Again, great video. so professionally done. Thank you for clearing up so many misconceptions for me!

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Thank you for the kind words! And I didn’t want to go too deep into the cost since it varies so much depending on where you’re shipping from, where it ends up, and different state taxes and other fees. I can say that for myself shipping from Spain to the West Coast it cost about $3000 in shipping, plus about $1000 in taxes and fees once the car was in the country. This was using RoRo. This is definitely at the higher end both because I had to take it on two ships (one from Spain to Germany, one from Germany to LA) and had to ship it to the West Coast which is much further than the East Coast, through the Canal. I would expect that if you are able to ship from Germany or the Netherlands or somewhere else in northern Europe to New York on a ship like mine was on, it should be just under $2000 including shipping and customs and all that. And then you’ll have some licensing and taxes you’ll have to pay, maybe 10% of the car’s value or so. Easiest thing to do is get a quote from a shipping company!

@213_e46 2 года назад

@@benbomcars couldn’t you have had it shipped to a family or friends located in ny or something as an example then drive it back to the west coast? Would have been cheaper

@benbomcars 2 года назад

I certainly could have, but it would have been a very very long drive in a car this small! Especially without AC. Didn’t want to risk breaking down in the middle of nowhere too. Plus, shipping on a boat is a lot cheaper than over land!

@christopherpatton862 Год назад

I live in Germany and sent an E36 to a friend who lives in Florida. I went around and chose a nice one in Bavaria (where they are made) and drove it to Rotterdam to ship it. The actual shipping cost wasn't bad at all, it cost about 1800 Dollars and went fairly smoothly.

@PolishPianoOrgan Год назад

@@christopherpatton862 You bought the container? How much did you pay I mean taxes, permitions and other stuffs? What was the company?

@FunAhead_TV_Official 8 месяцев назад

Fantastic video! Very detailed. You do a great job of outlining the entire process. Helps make taking on this process much less daunting for us importing noobs!

@polloloci21 2 года назад

Thanks for the tips. Nice car

@kellybrickey4300 2 года назад

I just discovered you! Thanks so much! I live in California, but i've always wanted to import something cool. I totally subscribed!

@jez_stephensanotherapex5921 2 года назад

Excellent job!

@schauhan2764 Год назад

Outstanding video Sir, a big salute to your efforts- 💯

@benbomcars Год назад

Thank you for the kind reply! Hope it is helpful. I am planning on importing another car soon and hope others get inspired to do the same!

@MsMehdi96 Год назад

relaaax broo, you don't have to stress you are awesome

@Matthew-np9fk 2 года назад

this is a great video, im looking into importing an S1 elise and this was of great help! now to find one...

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Oooh I have been eyeing those. That sounds like a great plan!

@impossibeods7875 Год назад

So Helpful, gonna use this help when importing a 280GE

@benbomcars Год назад

Glad I could help - that will be a great car to bring in! I have been eyeing those as well for a while, along with the Puch Gs. Such great cars!

@tanner8740 2 года назад

Huge help! I’m on the hunt for an E36 M3 or E30 touring at the moment!

@VintageCustomCars 2 года назад

hi, i can help to find your dream car

@grimy1495 2 года назад

Thanks for the video! Hoping to import an Alfa 155 Q4.

@yappingaboutcars Год назад

Ayeeee! Using Hagerty valuation tool! I work for Hagerty haha glad we could help!

@benbomcars Год назад

Ah awesome! I love Hagerty - great rates and everyone working there that I’ve met has been super friendly!

@The49ersOwn 4 месяца назад

Great video. Very helpful. It's not really a classic but I'm interested in importing a SEAT Leon. The earliest ones become legal later this year.

@benbomcars 2 месяца назад

That sounds like a super fun car to import! Lots of cool late 90s stuff becoming available now.

@davidcalkins8087 3 месяца назад

Very informative

@benbomcars 2 месяца назад

Glad it was helpful!

@ainnowaymyboi8533 2 года назад

You can definitely import a car into the U.S that’s under 25 years old. It’s just more difficult as there are more regulations

@benbomcars 2 года назад

It is possible for some cars… but can be very difficult. Either needs to be “show and display” which is a short list of really high end and rare cars or needs to be original North American spec, which cars sold outside the US quite rarely are. So while it’s possible it’s rare that it works out well and you get a car you can drive.

@harryfp1494 Год назад

I wanna buy a Ford Granada ghia mk2 so this video is helpful

@EEZYEEEE 2 года назад

Amazing, thanks for the helpful video. I’m looking to import and classic step van from UK to California and was wondering if the back of the van is modified for food truck operations, do you know if that’s reasons for the car to not be allowed in the country? Nothing else will be modified on the vehicle, just the interior. Thanks!

@benbomcars 2 года назад

I am not certain about this and don't want to give any incorrect advice here, but I would recommend reaching out to a customs agent at one of the ports and they should be able to advise you on this!

@porterwallace8190 2 года назад

Hey man I live in Seattle aswel and am interested in importing a car! If possible let me know what shipping agency you used out here, it sounds like you had a good experience with them. Great video thanks man.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Hi there! Thats a super great plan! I used ShipOverseas which is based down in Southern California. They did a good job, and could certainly help with shipping to Tacoma (Tacoma port is easier than Seattle I have heard). I would also recommend West Coast Shipping. They are based out of the Bay Area and cost slightly more than the agent I used, but have really great service and I have heard really good things.

@tmmike1980 11 месяцев назад

You left out costs. To me. That's the most important reason to watch a video like this.

@benbomcars 11 месяцев назад

Left them out intentionally slightly! Things changed quick with Covid. Look at other comments for more detail, or feel free to ask questions here and I can answer with exact costs from my experience!

@michaelaporta 2 года назад

Great video! I am also thinking in buying a vehicle from Barcelona Spain. How did you managed transaction and how did you make sure the car was being dropped off at the port? Does the seller needs to transfer the title to you at spain? What do you mean about making sure the car is unregistered? Sorry for all the questions, I will be very grateful if you could help me out to understand this part of the process.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Hey there! Certainly a lot of risks in terms of how I did it. I found a private seller and we wrote out a contract that we both agreed to. I then sent the money via wire transfer and he agreed to bring it to the port. With a dealership or more established seller there may be easier ways to do it, but I had communicated a lot with the seller and trusted them. As for what the seller needs to do; they need to remove insurance from the car and make sure that their country knows that the car is leaving (that is what I mean by unregistered). And then they send the original title along with the car (my seller placed the title in an envelope under the floor mats in the car). With all that done after picking up the car you show the DMV the title (translated) and contract you signed (you need some type of bill of sale) and you’re good to go!

@LSXREVIVAL 5 месяцев назад

Great job 👏🏼. Who did you use in Germany to ship the car form Europe ? I’m living in Europe going to ship a car back to the USA when I move back. Please advise thanks

@ebrahinevertsz9541 2 года назад

Hi, I really like your video! I was told by a shipping company that I was going to need a broker to release the car when It gets to the port in Baltimore, NY or NJ. To be honest I only spoke to a few companies. Is that true? I did not hear you mention anything about that so I was wondering if that is the case or does it depend on where its shipped from. I used to live in the Netherlands and speak fluent Dutch and I'm looking into import cars from there to PA. Do you have any tips or answers on that? Now my other question is if you buy the car from a private seller are you able to use a typed up bill of sale as one of the paperwork required to register the car? ? How does that work?.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Yeah this is something I may have missed since I had the shipping company help here - they were able to do all the work getting the car to the destination port and then clearing customs. After that I was able to hire someone (I think it was like $50) to drive me in to the port and there I could pick up the car. The shipping company did all the brokerage work so sadly I don’t know a ton about that. For the second question, you will definitely need to use a typed up bill of sale, signed by both you and the seller. In addition it needs information included like the VIN, price of the sale, and more. This is needed by the DMV so I would recommend asking them what is required. Hopefully this is helpful, sorry I don’t know more about the broker part!

@williecarlson Год назад

Hey, quick question. Do you know if the duty taxes you pay on the car are based on a sort of valuation like you said you got off a website for when it was needed at the dmv or if it is based on the price you paid for the car?

@benbomcars Год назад

Hey! You will have to ask your DMV for exact info, but what happened for me was the following: 1- They check a price book that they have (essentially Hagerty pricing, at the DMV I went to it was a few years outdated) and if the value declare on the registration forms / paid for the car is close to that (within 10% or so) you pay the tax on that. 2- Some cars, such as my Mini which is technically an Authi branded one and isn't super common, are not in their valuation books. I was able to get a classic car dealership near me to get a valuation on the car (they charged about $100 for it) and that worked for the DMV. It also helped with my insurance since I was able to get an agreed value plan, and if my car is totaled they will pay at least as much as the valuation stated (more now since values on these cars has gone up).

@DansCycles 2 года назад

I miss my mini

@jguadiz 2 года назад

Great video. I live in Seattle (Renton) and I'm looking at shipping in a car from the UK. Any tips would be awesome!! Congrats on the smooth transaction.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Hey there! Sorry for the late reply here, but that would be great to do! The port of Tacoma is really easy to go with. Reach out if you have any specific questions and I will be more than happy to chat!

@jguadiz 2 года назад

@@benbomcars great to hear back. I'll be reaching out soon.

@jguadiz 2 года назад

@@benbomcars so I'm definitely in with getting a car shipped from the UK. Would you be available for a chat so I can pick your brain. Again, I'm in the Newcastle area south of Bellevue. Thanks.

@bradleynelson4792 2 года назад

This is perfect. I am actually looking to do the exact same thing. Looking at a mini in the Netherlands and importing to Texas. What was your cost to import roll on/roll off?

@benbomcars 2 года назад

That’s so exciting! I paid about $3k for shipping and port fees. But that was from Spain to the west coast. Netherlands to Texas should be a direct easy route so I’d expect it to be around 2-2.5k. But might be able to find cheaper (although shipping seems a little hectic right now)

@bradleynelson4792 2 года назад

@@benbomcars Good deal. Can i ask what shipping company you used? i am reaching out to a few different companies right now trying to price it out.

@cwfocused 2 года назад

@@benbomcars Roughly how much will it cost to me to ship a Lamborghini Huracan $185k purchase price to the US?

@JohnJacobJr1 2 года назад

I'm looking to import too. What websites are you using?

@hummerguy 2 года назад

About the agent in US to help clear customs, do you have to hire them or they automatically assigned to do so?

@benbomcars 2 года назад

So I had paid for it as part of the shipping, and I didn't have to do anything other than pick the car up after it had been inspected in the port! If you are working with a shipping broker, they will certainly be able to give advice. They can either have someone inspect the car for you, or they will be able to recommend an agent near the port to come out and make sure the car clears customs after arrival, with minimal work needed from you.

@hummerguy 2 года назад

@@benbomcars Yep, I see what you mean, I currently have a broker that's helping a lot

@Yamadarunner 2 года назад

Hey Benbom thanks so much for this walk through, I’m currently in the process of looking into this my self, quick 2 questions; 1. I’m also in the Washington/King county Area is there an importer you recommend specifically to work with for say the port of Seattle or Tacoma? 2. you brought up the 25 year law for a vehicle. if the car is less than 25 years old but the model is also sold in the US and is Left hand drive would this make it easier less likely to get crushed? Thanks again!

@hashbrowns01 2 года назад

Bringing in a car that's newer than 25 years old becomes significantly more challenging and expensive. Even if the model is sold in the US and LHD, vehicle manufacturers must build the car to meet local rules. Overall, this process is called homologation. For example, a model sold in Germany can be significantly different than that same model sold in the US. Labels, instrument gauges, lights, emissions equipment and even things like airbags can be different to meet local law. Unless the car is extraordinarily special (which would qualify it for the Show and Display exemption), your best bet is to focus on something older than 25 years.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Yep the above is correct. Basically, unless the car in question that’s under 25 years old was originally sold in the US or was certified to be sold in the country (the exact car, which often meets different standards when sold abroad) it will basically be impossible to bring in. So even if the same model is sold in the US, but the specific car you’re looking at wasn’t originally or wasn’t manufactured with US sale in mind, it’s not worth the risk. So I used shipoverseas.com which worked great. They’re based out of socal but have connections here, so it’s definitely a possibility. As for PNW based importers, I don’t know any specifically (maybe Adam Chovanak at Sodo Moto?) but someone I met here (who reached out to me due to this video) just got his mini imported into Tacoma, so let me ask him!

@Yamadarunner 2 года назад

@@benbomcars @Ted Merendino Awesome Than you, I chatted with Adam Chovanak. Who is super nice! We’re looking how to get the car into the country Thank you again! :D

@benbomcars 2 года назад

@@Yamadarunner Adam will definitely know how to help! Super great guy.

@academiaengineering5136 2 года назад

Can I buy a car from Europe online? Or do I have to fly over there and buy it in person?

@ryanjfinch383 3 года назад

Great video! I wanted to know what website you used in order to ship it. I want to try and import one from Germany but all of the websites seem a little sketchy. Lemme know if you see this! Thank you!

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Hi there! So I purchased my car from a private seller that I found on autoscout24. And then I shipped it using the company ShipOverseas.com. Overall I thought it was a good service! They had competitive prices and knew all the logistics around how to ship and were easy to call and chat with. I would recommend finding a company like that located near the port you plan to ship to, and call them and ask them a number of questions about the process to judge their knowledge and customer service. I also know that West Coast Shipping is a great company; costs a little more but some friends had great luck with them.

@ryanjfinch383 2 года назад

@@benbomcars Awesome! Thank you so so much!

@hypocycloidiaspora Год назад

Hey, it's Mercer Island! No mistaking those white fire hydrants... how many cyclists did you have to pass on East Mercer Way? @bembomcars A more serious question - how did you handle the shopping aspect? Did you hire someone to inspect and evaluate the car for you in Spain? Once you had your car selected and agreed on price, how did you handle the exchange of funds for the vehicle? Did you fly over to do these things in person or hire agents?

@benbomcars Год назад

Yep, definitely Mercer Island! And tons of cyclists were passed, but I like seeing them out as a cyclist myself. I bought the car through a private party, who I found selling it online during the pandemic. The seller was incredibly communicative and had a shop he worked with that had recently done work on the car, so I was able to call the shop and ask them about the condition of it. The car arrived exactly as I had expected, but it was certainly a risk. The alternate would be working with a larger dealership (something like Hofman Leek in NL, or ISSIMI for high end cars, or something similar) that can help shed light on the condition of the car and arrange shipping. I just got lucky with a great seller. As for funds, we had written up a contract and I worked with a lawyer in Spain to ensure it was written correctly. Again, it was risky, but I used my judgement with the seller and he ended up being a great person and getting the car to the port right when it needed to be there to get on the ship. Agents certainly are helpful, and with a car any more valuable than this, I would definitely recommend that. Or flying over yourself and making a little vacation out of it. Let me know if you have any other questions, or you may be able to find me at some of the upcoming E@RTC events each Saturday in Redmond!

@jimmymeyers6743 3 года назад

👍👍👍

@toddparis8150 6 месяцев назад

Great video I'm importing a 1993 Land Rover Defender from Spain to NJ/NY but my agent is having a hard time getting a slot on a ship. Do you have any recommendations for agents or ways to find an agent here in the USA?

@akifayran1775 Год назад

Thank you for the very useful video. I live also in Seattle. I want to import and Alpina b4 grand coupe from Uk or Germany. How can I find the Carrier and someone who can do the paper work ?

@benbomcars Год назад

Hey there - unfortunately, due to the age of the B4, it won't be easy at all to import it. It will need to be 25+ years old to bring it into the country. Sadly there isn't really a workaround there

@Alarcon98 Год назад

This was so helpful I’m trying to bring my grandpas 2000 Prado VX from Ecuador in the future How would I pay taxes if I inherited it?

@benbomcars Год назад

Hey there - It probably varies by state, so you would need to check. I am not sure if inheritance laws are different from registering otherwise. I would imagine, however, that they will want a valuation (maybe a Hagerty value) at the DMV to determine the base you pay taxes on.

@blahzz Год назад

I was just curious I saw you had a Washington plate I am also in Washington what agent did you use?

@benbomcars Год назад

I am in Washington! I used Shipoverseas.com, who helped me ship it to California. I would recommend finding a local freight forwarding agent, however. I was living in CA at the time so it made sense there, but having someone local to the destination (tacoma port) would be ideal!

@blahzz Год назад

Sounds good!! Thank you so much!!

@DailyInspirations101 2 года назад

Great video sir! My question is do you have more list of famous websites where dealerships and private sellers in Europe post there cars for sale? Thanks again for making such a professional video.

@VintageCustomCars 2 года назад

you can text me, i can find any car you want and can help shipping

@DailyInspirations101 2 года назад

@@VintageCustomCars wonderful, where can I text you?

@VintageCustomCars 2 года назад

@@DailyInspirations101 vintage@europe.com or directly to fb, insta, linkedin and etc.

@Rusty-the-datsun Год назад

i'm planning on importing a 74 datsun cherry 100a to the united states someday i dont think it would have any issues with customs because someone imported the JDM model X1R so i dont think ill have any issues hopefully

@benbomcars Год назад

Yep, if its a '74 (ie more than 25 years old) and largely original, you shouldnt have too much trouble! Just make sure you have all the paperwork sorted and you will have a great time.

@Rusty-the-datsun Год назад

@@benbomcars thanks thats all the info i needed for future

@Your_Mothers_Husband 2 года назад

Does this also work with European tractor trailers? I want to import a Scania.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Hi there! I sadly am not sure about the rules around importing these. You could reach out to a customs agent, and they should have advice!

@Ibrahim.280 Год назад

Hey man How to do my Turkish car go through to USA

@VintageCustomCars 2 года назад

nice video, i have Austin 1300 Rally Car #12 for sale, can help arrange shipping to usa

@user-el1vf7rs8n 9 месяцев назад

I have purchased and own that is over 25 years old. The car though is not registered in my name and is still fegistered in the name of the old owner. Will this be a problem? Also, if it has a license plate from one EU country like spain would i be able to just as well ship it from another EU country like germany?

@rapcreeperproductions3269 3 месяца назад

I wonder if the process is any different if the vehicle was made in America. I'd like to get a WW2 halftrack (US) and most of them were left in Europe

@blaskowitz860 2 года назад

Does this apply for military vehicles as well cuz I'm saving up for a ot-64 from Ireland that's guy is selling and it's about 8 feet in width and 25 feet about in length and approximately 15 tons

@benbomcars 2 года назад

So Ro-Ro ships should have no issue fitting this on them. They regularly transport busses and trucks and more! I am not sure about rules and regulations around importing the truck (ie if customs will have any issue with it), but if you reach out to a customs agent and ask about it and they don't have an issue you wont have any problems! Also worth making sure its easy to license with the DMV (and if you have any issues getting feedback from the DMV, I would recommend reaching out to an independent licensing service that may be able to provide better advice).

@chuydelatorre5590 9 месяцев назад

What if it was changed from a Manuel to an automatic? is that heavily modified?

@benbomcars 2 месяца назад

You would need to talk to a customs broker to confirm, but I imagine it wouldn't be an issue! Generally they check that the VIN matches on the car and in all docs, and at times will check the engine number too. I haven't heard to them checking the transmission, but would talk to a broker to be sure. I imagine it would be ok though!

@shimmytube777 27 дней назад

Can I import my car from the UK to the US with an aftermarket turbo install? I can't find the answer anywhere?

@abowael1939 Год назад

Hi. Nice car I have a car on its way to the us watch tracking site do you use

@benbomcars Год назад

I used vesselfinder.com! If you know what ship its on, you can find it there. It sometimes is offline when the ship is in the middle of the sea though. And if yours happens to go through the panama canal (or any similar area), definitely try and see when it goes through, and you can watch it do so on a webcam!

@cristaosunidos.academy 2 года назад

Nice! How much was the shipping?

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Sorry for such a late reply! It ended up being about $2500 to ship it from Spain to the US. It would have been cheaper if I had shipped it from the Netherlands, Germany, or the UK since there are boats that go directly from parts of those countries to the US. Also it would have been less expensive going to east coast or the South rather than to the west coast, since the car had to go through the Panama canal!

@superbrownsheep3777 Год назад

I have a question, it’s a Big one, and Has something to do with Buses form Europe. Do you think, that it’s possible to Import Buses from Europe into the US? Or are there Importing Rules specific to Buses that I may have to follow. I’m just Wondering.

@benbomcars 11 месяцев назад

You would need to ask a customs official about that! Using the method I did (25 year rule, etc), it was just for cars and not busses.

@Chuthulhu123 2 года назад

I'm curious if these same rules apply if you're importing the car for personal use. What i mean by that is if I wanted to ship my car from England to the US and take it on a road trip.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

So that’s slightly different and probably easier! As long as your insurance covers it and you don’t overstay your visa or anything like that you should be able to drive it without issue. Think of it like bringing your personal car across the channel to Europe. Different country but as long as you have the right insurance and don’t overstay you can drive it without issue!

@Chuthulhu123 2 года назад

@@benbomcars Thank you for the response

@tbell5554 2 года назад

How did you vet the private seller? How did you pay them? Did you have the car independently inspected, if so how did you find a service to inspect it?

@benbomcars 2 года назад

This was definitely a difficult and risky part of what I did. I mostly vetted the private seller through a number of phone conversations and other video calls. It’s really not perfect, but I could tell eventually that they were true enthusiast and were genuinely looking to sell the car to someone interested in it. They referred me to the shop that did a bunch of recent work on the car so I was able to call them as well and ask both for a reference and to hear about the condition of the car. I just wired over the money and we sent each other a contract that had been lightly vetted by both an American and Spanish lawyer. Still a lot of risk but it worked out on my end!

@kellybrickey4300 2 года назад

@@benbomcars I found your experience refreshing. Ultimately, you chose to have a bit of faith in humanity. Sometimes, it works. in 2000, I bought a 1957 hillman from a guy in Montana on his word that it would make to idaho, about 500 miles. I drove it over the continental divide at dusk, through the sawtooths into idaho, getting to Boise at dawn... It worked then. so, now I want something from England. You've emboldened me. Your Mini is groovy!

@gabeishere4990 Год назад

Does the car have to be running? What if it's just a shell? Or if it doesn't have a drive train?

@benbomcars Год назад

Sadly, I am unsure about the rules there. I know that it is possible to bring in a car with no drivetrain but you may need to reach out to a customs broker to talk through that. I assume that since it isn't a running car, it has different regulations.

@eprokhor 2 года назад

Pm’ed you about my future import classic mini to wa

@juancalderon5520 Год назад

Can u give us some estimate? Of how much a cost from going to one port to the next port?

@benbomcars Год назад

When I shipped my car it was about $3,000 usd from Barcelona to Los Angeles, with a boat change in Germany. I am not sure how expensive it may be now, however, since shipping prices have changed. I would recommend reaching out to a logistics company near the port you want to ship to for an estimate! I used Shipoverseas.com and they provided estimates quickly

@095717 2 года назад

thanks bro I realy need to know how to sell car's from bulgaria to america and how is some one is gona pay me for my car??? it's just hard to understand but I know english at least :D BENBOM CARS please help how can I do it?????

@pjpeterchen1 10 месяцев назад

Hi I also would like to import a car from my country, I wonder if you can introduce your agent to help clear the car when it reaches to the US port.(BTW, the vehicle is a 37 years old Mercedes, is it possible to import to California?)

@jizrocket9062 Год назад

Are you able to import it directly to Washington or is California the closest you can ship it

@benbomcars Год назад

I would have been able to bring it directly to WA! The Tacoma port often receives RoRo shipments. I just happened to be living in CA when I shipped the car, and moved while it was in transit, so it still ended up in CA.

@jizrocket9062 Год назад

@@benbomcars that makes sense thank you!

@academiaengineering5136 2 года назад

Is the Insurance more expensive for foreign imported cars?

@benbomcars 2 года назад

I haven't found it to be more expensive. Inexpensive for me through Hagerty!

@academiaengineering5136 2 года назад

@@benbomcars what kind of insurance you used?

@VgAce135 Год назад

Great video but damn is that a lot of work. I might understand it if the car was never imported to the US or it was a rare specialedition, but you can find Mini's already imported into the US. I'd just rather wait for one to go for sale over here and save some dough.

@benbomcars Год назад

Appreciate the note, but this turned out to be more affordable at the time for a car in this condition! Plus, it was a fun process. Helped me gain confidence for future imports

@VgAce135 Год назад

@@benbomcars They have started importing more and more of them on BaT as the popularity has risen. Btw how difficult is it on those cars to convert them from RHD to LHD?

@academiaengineering5136 2 года назад

Besides Europe or Japan, can I also buy and import a car from any foreign country to the US?

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Yep, you can buy from anywhere as long as its 25+ years old and original!

@academiaengineering5136 2 года назад

@@benbomcars thx

@gabrielvaldez1527 2 года назад

How long was the process

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Hi there! It took a while; I bought the car at the end of May 2020. I was able to get it onto a ship in mid June and it arrived the last week of August. Covid made it slightly more difficult to find a boat for the car. Additionally, since I shipped it from Spain to Germany and then to US (no direct RoRo ships from barcelona to the West Coast US) it took a while. But was well worth it!

@dieself450fx4 2 года назад

I bought a 2006 Audi A6 3.0 TDI in Kosovo I want to import it to Michigan my question is can I ?

@matthewmoore661 8 месяцев назад

You can find parts easy?

@benbomcars 2 месяца назад

Yes, it's been very simple! There is a great network of enthusiasts and companies that sell parts. I have found Minispares.com to be the best - they ship from the UK but they're affordable and have everything.

@ColemakDH 3 месяца назад

How much should i be expecting to pay to import a car?

@benbomcars 2 месяца назад

Totally depends on the car as well as where you are importing it. For me, shipping cost about $3k (cheaper from norther port cities though, such as Rotterdam, or Southampton in the UK, or Bremerhaven in Germany). Then you add customs feed ($250-500 or so), taxes (mine was 8% of the car price), and other registration fees.

@stevesanouk3475 2 года назад

Hello, I wish I knew about this a couple of years ago. I was too busy looking in Japan and USA, they are too expensive for me. Discovered late last year same version, less hp(which I'm ok with) in Europe for much much less. So far hasn't been any success with the private seller. I'm with you on the dealer, I may have a better chance. Found a couple from the dealership, but they're all sold! I'm going up against hundreds of potential buyers. These cars were going for less than a grand. The ones I don't like are still there. Seems like a lot of people like what I like. Once I ask private seller for their bank info, they either said car is sold or ghosted on me. How can that be when 10 minutes ago they ask if I wanted to come check it out for a test drive. Why they get spooked when I'm the one sending them the money? It's very difficult especially when you don't speak the same language. Google translate has been my best friend. I really hate how I'm starting to see price increased through the shipping and the value of the cars. These new generations are no joke. There's been times I've thought about giving up but that nerve and urge still hits. How many days till it arrived to the port? Was there any damaged to the vehicle? My budget is 2k to ship but I'm afraid it might be in the high 2's or low 3's. It's the inland transport that killed it plus misc fees. I need to get it done once in this lifetime.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Yeah its really tough. European sellers may feel like its a potential scam when someone from the US tries to buy an inexpensive car. Keep trying though! It eventually will work. Also, if you are shipping to the west coast, it may be worth still looking at Japan. While prices may be slightly higher, shipping would be cheaper than shipping from europe, and cars in Japan are often really well maintained and well documented. Also from Japan there is often less inland transport, which is really expensive and europe is bigger so its more common there. It took about 1 month from the time it shipped to it arriving in port for me, plus about 5 days for the car to clear customs. No damage at all! Good luck with the search.

@stevesanouk3475 Год назад

@@benbomcars do you know anything about a EORI number?

@javiermercado9624 27 дней назад

great to meet you last week a bcr 3 . I didn't get your details as i had to veer off before the final meeting point. . can we meet up for a mini run ? send me a p.m. for your details. thanks javier

@DigitalDissident 2 года назад

@washbuns 11 месяцев назад

turn the music up! i can almost hear you!

@santanusen9411 2 года назад

Hi, nice Mini! I'm in the process of importing a 1959 Morris Oxford from the UK that will come to California where I live. Guy I'm getting from is up in Northern England. Seems reliable, but wanted to see best way to inspect the car without me being present. Please email me if you can. I've lived in Washington so awesome.

@kellybrickey4300 2 года назад

I live in southern California and would be interested in learning about your experience, as I'm contemplating doing that. Have you documented it someplace? So many cool cars we never got!

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Goodness sorry for such a late reply here! My advice would be do inspect the car the same as you would here in the states. I would recommend getting in contact with a shop that specializes in Minis near where the car is located, and see if the seller can either bring the car to the shop to be inspected or if the mechanic can go take a look. Probably will cost about $200 or so but will be well worth it for a simple independent inspection!

@jshmddx Год назад

How were you able to purchase the car in Spain without having a residence or spainish social security number?

@benbomcars Год назад

Since I never had it registered in Spain, I was able to purchase it and have the previous owner remove registration, and bring to the ship for me! Since a residence and other Spanish documentation is required only when registering a car in your name there, I didn't have to deal with that difficulty!

@Iron-Griffon 6 месяцев назад

I'm going to try and buy a Renault Clio Williams, so I have to pay the Baguette tax.

@zzzzzsleeping 2 года назад

Well anyone here knows if I can ship a kit car rolling chassis (from UK to USA) only and declare it as "auto parts only" ???? So, this is not a functional car. There is no engine just chassis and body panels(fiberglass). I will build the car here and use it for road racing. Thank you.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

It might be worth looking into this with a company that imports cars similarly, like a caterham dealership. I think it is possible, but I have no experience with it first hand. Caterhams are delivered in a similar way to this in the US so I image people working at those dealerships could offer advice!

@dopernautzofficial1504 2 года назад

lol this is exactly the car....

@skeleguns10oooooo10 4 месяца назад

Cars in the UK are Right Hand Drive

@eddiemichael4333 2 года назад

You have big ports în Constanța în România where you can buy the same car much more cheaper then Spain or Germany or Norway,you have big Ports în Bulgaria,Grece,Turkey ,so why on earth you spend loads of money on a car from Spain or Italy or Germany, just look up.

@benbomcars 2 года назад

Great to know! I found a good deal on this car in Spain, but will certainly look at Romania and other countries that may have more affordable cars in the future!

@cathrynkarapatsios6380 Год назад

Black and white striped bikini

@vanky1907 2 года назад

DMV is never happy to provide information 😂

@michaelgriffith6410 2 года назад

This whole process sounds like 10s of thousands of dollars and ur broke by the time u get it lol

@benbomcars 2 года назад

So the shipping for me was about $2500 port to port! The process actually was not very expensive, its much cheaper to ship a car on a boat than many people expect! On top of the $2500 for shipping, I had to pay some tax on the car once it arrived. But, since Minis are quite expensive in the US, it ended up being about the same price as it would have been to just buy the car here, but I got more car selection and had more fun than I would have just buying the car nearby!

@tomasbermudas793 2 года назад

@@benbomcars would you mind telling me approximately how much you spent from having the car shipped to the port to finally getting it registered? Basically how much it was apart from the price of the car