Classic car owners are able to avoid any of Donald Trump's controversial tariffs after enthusiasts found small print in the President's documents.
As the world continues to bear the brunt of the President's tariffs, some experts are making use of a loophole to ensure the classic car community can continue to thrive.
Last week, on "Liberation Day", President Donald Trump confirmed that all foreign cars imported into the United States would have to pay a 25 per cent tariff.
While the President had confirmed the plan in March, there had been hopes that a trade agreement could be struck, although this failed to materialise.
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Classic car enthusiasts have found a loophole in President Donald Trump's car import tariff
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In the immediate aftermath, major car brands were forced to make difficult decisions regarding their future in the United States in response to the hefty tariff.
Jaguar Land Rover said it would pause deliveries to the United States, while other manufacturers said it had no option but to hike prices and delay plans in North America.
Despite the concern, members of the classic car and historic vehicle society are able to get around the high tariffs imposed by President Trump.
Car shipping expert Mike Harvey, from Autoshippers, pointed out a "little gem" hidden in the official tariff document that outlines a new classification for older vehicles.
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He said: "A key detail in the small print of the 'Liberation Day' declaration reveals a new classification for 25-year-old cars, which exempts them from the 25 per cent tariff.
"Under the new Harmonized System code 9903.94.04, classic cars only incur the standard 2.5 per cent duty, provided they meet the 25-year age requirement.
"This means that while newer vehicles may face higher tariffs, classic cars are exempt from these additional charges, significantly reducing the financial burden for enthusiasts and making vintage imports more accessible."
The expert noted that it is crucial for motorists to follow the rules correctly if they are importing or exporting vehicles while the tariff is in place.
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Drivers must first ensure that their vehicle meets the 25-year age requirement, and gather all necessary import, shipping and customs documents.
He advised shipping vehicles by container or RoRo to all main ports in the United States. Harvey added that the small print "is a win for classic car collectors and importers" who can ship vintage vehicles without the added financial burden.
In 2024, more than 101,000 UK passenger cars were exported to the United States, representing 16.9 per cent of vehicles exported. This makes the US the second-largest export destination after the European Union.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), UK passenger car exports to the US were worth £7.6billion last year.
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CAR AND CLASSICIn the opposite direction, the United States only exported 18,000 units to the UK in 2024.
The SMMT reported that premium and luxury vehicles make up the bulk of cars exported from the UK to the United States, although this could change if the tariff is a permanent policy change.
