Cabra Cars guide
The total cost of importing a car from the USA is not one fixed fee. It includes the vehicle price, auction fees, transport, customs clearance, taxes and the cost of preparing the vehicle in Poland. Below we explain what should be calculated before bidding.
What makes up the vehicle import cost?
Vehicle purchase and auction fees
The winning bid is only the first component. The calculation also includes auction-house fees and, in some cases, brokerage and paid documentation.
US inland transport and ocean freight
The cost depends on the distance from the auction yard to the port, vehicle type, selected port and shipping method to Europe.
Customs clearance, duty, VAT and excise duty
After arrival, the calculation must include customs clearance and taxes applicable to the specific vehicle and place of clearance. Customs duty is checked in the current tariff.
Delivery, repair and paperwork in Poland
The final budget may include delivery from the port, repairs, technical inspection, document translation, registration and adaptation to Polish regulations.
Taxes and clearance
Key rules in 2026
- Import requires customs formalities and a customs declaration.
- For passenger cars up to 2,000 cc, the standard excise rate is 3.1%; above 2,000 cc it is 18.6%.
- The standard VAT rate in Poland is 23%; settlement also depends on the place of clearance and the specific transaction.
- The customs rate and additional requirements should always be confirmed in the current tariff for the specific vehicle.
Official sources: excise rates, import procedure, customs tariff.
A simple estimation formula
Add a reserve for repairs and unforeseen costs. The safest approach is to prepare an estimate for a specific vehicle before placing a bid.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the total import cost most?
Purchase price, auction fees, the vehicle location in the USA, destination port, exchange rates, engine size, vehicle condition and repair scope.
Is the cheapest auction vehicle always the best purchase?
No. A low price can be offset by transport, missing documents, major damage or expensive parts. This is why the VIN, photos and documents should be checked before bidding.
How is excise duty calculated for a passenger car?
For most passenger cars, the rate depends on engine capacity. Cars up to 2,000 cc are subject to 3.1%, while those above 2,000 cc are subject to 18.6%. Separate rates and conditions apply to some hybrid vehicles.
Can the cost be estimated before bidding?
Yes. A reliable estimate requires a specific listing or VIN, vehicle location, engine capacity and a preliminary damage assessment.
Estimate for a specific vehicle
Already found a listing?
Send the link or VIN. We will help check the listing and estimate the next stages of the import.