Exporting Vehicles

Exporting a vehicle without a state-issued certificate of title can be challenging, so it’s important to know the proper steps to ensure exporting is possible. U.S. Customs requires exporters to provide proof of ownership for each vehicle. The original, state-issued certificate of title is the key document that establishes ownership for export purposes. A bill of sale alone will not be sufficient. While you may be able to obtain alternate proof of ownership from the state, this process can be time consuming and is not handled by Copart.

Do your homework before bidding on any vehicle that you wish to export out of the United States:

• Know the specific title type or other ownership document that is available to the buyer for that vehicle.
• Consult with the freight forwarder or transportation agent who will be handling the export process for you, or contact a Customs agent at the intended port of export.
• Wait to bid on a vehicle until you have confirmed that the title or other ownership document is sufficient for export purposes.

In addition to U.S. export regulations, exporters must also comply with the legal requirements governing vehicle imports in the destination country. Contact information for each port can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Members are also encouraged to contact the Copart location where the vehicle will be sold for further information regarding shipping and transportation. Copart also recommends that Members who wish to export a vehicle thoroughly research each step of the import/export process before bidding. This research may help to avoid costly delays and difficulties.

All sales are final. Copart is not liable for delays or seizures by U.S. Customs or foreign ports, or for costs and expenses that may be incurred by a Member as a result of the Member's or its agent's failure to comply with applicable law.