Howdy - so I got a bill in the mail today from US Customs and Border protection for 10% of the sale price of the car I bought in Australia and had shipped here to the USA. When I did my research in May I was repeatedly told that a) classic cars over 25 years old are exempt from tariffs, b) only the 2.5% ad velorum tax applied, and c) Australia was a favored nation trading partner so no tariffs apply. I bough the car with this understanding. Turns out the law changed on July 1, 2025 to allow for 10% tariffs on classic cars, and 25% on newer cars.. My car was shipped on May 7th, and arrived on July 7th. The tariff law applies to any vehicle that was in shipment as as of July 1st. As my car landed July 7th, hence the tariff applies. I asked the importer if I can challenge this, and they said I can but I would lose, and that interest will accrue on the open balance. Obviously this really sucks. Has anyone heard of this, or had any luck challenging this? And letting you all know who are contemplating importing a car to the US. Thanks for your thoughts. -Jim
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