Introduction
One of the biggest considerations in importing a vehicle is whether the car is left-hand drive (LHD) or right-hand drive (RHD). These arrangements shape everything from legal systems to road safety. If you’re thinking about Car shipping Europe to the US then it’s important you know these differences and legalities.
Understanding Left-Hand vs. Right-Hand Drive Cars
Left Hand Drive (LHD) Vehicles
LHD vehicles are adopted for nations that drive the street from the right side of the road including a lot of Europe and the United States With their steering wheels on the left side, these vehicles are US road legal.
Vehicles with Right-Hand Drive (RHD)
RHD cars are built for nations including the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia, where driving is on the left like here. The right-hand steering wheel makes driving these vehicles more difficult in the US.
LHD vs RHD Cars: Key Differences
DRIVING POSITION & ROAD SAFETY
- Because these cars are designed for right-side driving, they are legally safer in the US: Right-hand drive cars get into accidents 10% more frequently than left-hand drive ones do, according to Bell.
- Drivers have to get used to having the steering wheel on the other side for RHD cars and visibility and controls are different as well.
- In case you did not know, overtaking in RHD cars is riskier in the opposite lanes, eventually merging in lanes gets tricky in the US too, forcing you to slap your cheek.
Legal Considerations for Importing Cars
- The US government agencies DOT and EPA have strict requirements for vehicles entering the country.
- Importing LHD cars that comply with US standards is relatively easier.
- The 25-Year Import Rule allows importing RHD cars over 25 years old, without modification.
- This means that newer RHD vehicles would need to be modified to US road safety specifications.
Problems with Insurance & Registration
- RHD vehicles sometimes command redemption (RHD) prices to insurance companies.
- Depending on the laws of your state, they may require their inspection of the RHD cars.
- In the US, the LHD cars have fewer insurance and registration constraints.
Conversion Costs
- Pricing to convert from RHD to LHD ranges from about $5,000 to $30,000+, depending on the make and model of the car.
- Changes are necessary to the steering column, dashboard, and mechanical systems.
- LHD cars are free of conversion costs and compliance issues.
Legal Considerations When Importing Cars to the US
NHTSA & EPA Import Regulations
- Safety regulations fall under the jurisdiction of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- The EPA certifies that vehicles are up to emission standards.
- Vehicles older than 25 years old get a pass on some federal regulations, which helps make classic car imports simpler.
Compliance with US Standards
- That means any vehicle made less than 25 years old needs to be modified to conform with DOT and EPA standards.
- You will have to adjust the side mirrors, convert the speedometers, and modify them to meet your emission norms as an RHD.
- But importing an LHD car from Europe is often a simpler task, as a great deal of European models are already US-compliant.
How to Import a Car from Europe to the US: A Step-by-Step Guide
Check Vehicle Eligibility
- Check whether the vehicle is on a list of NHTSA-approved vehicles
- Make sure it conforms to EPA emissions.
Partner with a Trusted Car Shipping Company
- Lima Automotive: European to US car shippers
- They take care of customs clearance, documentation, and vehicle compliance.
Obtain Required Documents
- Bill of Sale
- Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin
- Environmental Protection Agency & Department of Transportation compliance documents
- Documentation for shipping and importation
Find the best shipping method
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Cheap if your vehicle moves.
- Container Shipping: Offers additional safety for luxury cars.
Pay Import Duties & Fees
- The Import duty for cars is approximately 2.5% of the value of the vehicle.
- State applicability may add additional taxes.
Clear US Customs & Perform Modifications
- There might be US customs clearance, which can take 1–2 weeks.
- RHD cars must be modified for safety and emissions before registration.
Why Choose Lima Automotive for Car Shipping Europe to the US?
Knowledge of Vehicle Transport Overseas
- Lima Automotive imports vehicles from Europe to the US.
- They take care of all customs clearance, documentation, and compliance.
Safe & Secure Shipping Methods
- RoRo & container shipping, air carrier
- GPS tracking for real-time updates about your vehicle’s journey.
Hassle-Free Customs Clearance
- Adherence to all US DOT and EPA regulations.
Competitive Pricing
- You are getting an affordable quote with no hidden charge.
- Discount for multiple vehicles import.
Conclusion
The choice between left-hand drive and right-hand drive models can also depend on importing a European car into the US. RHD cars, on the other hand, are not very common and will incur some adjustments and paperwork during the registration process. A car shipment in its entirety from Europe to the US will involve compliance, customs clearance, logistics, and several other parts, but Lima Automotive won’t leave you high and dry.
Lima Automotive If you need a reliable partner to help you with your car import, contact Lima Automotive today to begin a hassle-free import process for yourself!
Visit our LinkedIn profile for more updates and tips!
FAQs
Is it legal to drive a right-hand drive in the US?
Yes, though it must meet US DOT and EPA standards. It’s easier to import cars with RHD that are more than 25 years old
Must I change a right-hand drive automobile before bringing it to the United States?
For safety and emissions compliance, modifications may be necessary if the vehicle is less than 25 years old.
Is it more economical to convert an RHD car to an LHD or source an LHD model?
Right-hand drive (RHD) to left-hand drive (LHD) conversions don’t come cheap. LHD models are typically cheaper to purchase.
How long to ship a car from Europe to the USA?
Shipping estimates are generally between 2–6 weeks, depending on the shipping method and where you are.
Which European country has the easiest process to export cars to the United States?
The best options are Germany, France, and the Netherlands, countries with established export procedures.
What Are The Import Duties On Cars Imported From Europe To The U.S.?
Import taxes are usually charged at 2.5% of the vehicle value, along with taxes.
