Import · Germany → USA

Importing a BMW R nineT to the USA: Real Costs

The R nineT is a customizer's dream, marrying BMW's signature boxer twin to clean, heritage-soaked roadster lines.

By Priya Nair, Motorcycle import researcher · 6 min read

The R nineT is a heritage roadster built around BMW's air-cooled boxer twin.

Being over 800cc, it qualifies for duty-free US entry.

The full cost breakdown

Plug in your own purchase figure — everything below the vehicle scales only modestly with value. All amounts are researched 2026 estimates in USD.

Estimated landed cost — BMW R nineT, Germany → USA, 2026
Vehicle (purchase price)	$12,000
Export agent & de-registration	$500
Professional crating	$400
Ocean freight (crated, LCL)	$1,500
Marine insurance (~1.5%)	$180
Motorcycles over 800cc enter the US duty-free	$0
Customs broker & port handling	$410
EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork	$150
Inland transport & registration	$750
Estimated all-in landed cost	$15,890

You must file EPA Form 3520-1 and DOT Form HS-7 at entry, and a US-certified equivalent or the 21/25-year age exemption can ease compliance.

Is the R nineT duty-free into the US?+

Yes, its over-800cc engine means duty-free entry.

Does Germany-to-US import carry VAT?+

No, the United States does not charge VAT on imported motorcycles.