FAQ: Import Duty & Taxes/Tariffs on Car Parts Shipped from the UK to the USA

With the recent changes to tariffs for orders to the US, we have put together a handy guide to answer all of the questions you have regarding tariffs and ordering car parts into the USA. This FAQ has been put together following the recent change on February 24, 2026: Where customs fees and duties began applying to all imported parcels at any value. 

 

Will I have to pay import duty (Tariffs) on car parts shipped from the UK to the USA? 

In most cases, yes. When you order parts from Flying Spares in the UK and have them shipped to the United States, your order is considered an international import. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may apply:

  • Import duty (Tariffs) (based on the product classification) 

  • Customs processing fees 

  • State sales/use tax (in some cases)s

  • Brokerage or clearance fees (charged by the carrier)

The exact amount depends on the value of the goods and how they are classified under U.S. tariff codes.

 

How much import duty (Tariffs) will I have to pay? 

Import duty rates vary depending on:

  • The type of car part (engine component, brake part, trim, electrical item, etc.) 

  • The material (metal, rubber, plastic, etc.) 

  • The declared value of the shipment 

  • The country of origin Most automotive parts fall under U.S. HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) classifications in Chapter 87, but the duty rate can vary. 

Your shipping carrier (e.g., DHL, FedEx, UPS) will usually contact you before delivery with the amount due. 

 

Who is responsible for paying import duty (Tariffs) and fees?

The customer (importer) is responsible. When you place an order with Flying Spares, you are considered the importer of record in the United States. Any import duty, taxes, or customs clearance fees are payable by you upon or before delivery. Flying Spares does not collect U.S. import duties at checkout.

 

How will I be notified about import charges (Tariffs)? 

Your courier (such as DHL, FedEx, or UPS) will typically:

  • Contact you by email, text, or phone 
  • Provide a breakdown of the charges 
  • Request payment before delivery Delivery may be delayed until payment is made. 

 

Can Flying Spares mark the package as a gift or lower the value to reduce duty? 

No. All shipments from Flying Spares are declared accurately and in compliance with UK export regulations and U.S. import laws. Undervaluing goods or marking them as gifts is illegal and could result in:

  • Seizure of goods
  • Fines or penalties
  • Delays in customs clearance

 

Are classic or vintage car parts treated differently? 

No. Even if the parts are for classic or vintage vehicles (e.g., Rolls-Royce or Bentley models), they are still classified as automotive parts under U.S. customs regulations. The age of the vehicle typically does not eliminate import duty on replacement parts. 

 

Can I estimate the duty (Tariffs) before ordering?

You can:

  • Review the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) 
  • Contact your shipping carrier for guidance 
  • Speak with a licensed customs broker Because classification can be technical, exact amounts are typically confirmed at the time of import. 

 

What happens if I refuse to pay import charges (Tariffs)? 

If import duties or fees are not paid:

  • The shipment may be returned to the UK 
  • Return shipping and additional fees may be charged 
  • Refunds may be reduced by shipping and handling costs We strongly recommend understanding potential import costs before placing your order. 

 

Does Flying Spares control U.S. customs charges (Tariffs)?

No. Import duty, customs processing, and clearance fees are determined by:

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 
  • The shipping carrier 
  • Applicable U.S. regulations 

 

These charges are outside the control of Flying Spares.