Import · UK → USA

Importing a Land Rover Defender to the USA (25-year rule)

Defenders are catnip for US buyers — but classification and VIN fraud are real risks.

By Sofia Berg, Customs & compliance writer · 6 min read

Defenders older than 25 years import legally, and demand keeps prices firm.

The market has a history of mis-stated build years — verify the chassis number against records.

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 — Land Rover Defender, UK → USA, 2026
Vehicle (purchase price)	$45,000
Export agent & auction fees	$1,200
Ocean freight	$2,800
Marine insurance (~1.5%)	$675
2.5% for the wagon classification	$1,125
Customs broker & port handling	$830
EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork	$300
Inland transport & registration	$1,500
Estimated all-in landed cost	$53,430

CBP scrutinises Defender imports for age and VIN fraud; buy only with verifiable documentation.

Are old Defenders legal in the US?+

Yes at 25+ years, but CBP checks ages closely.

Biggest risk?+

Falsified build year or VIN — verify everything.