Motorcycles from the USA - all about importing two-wheelers from across the Atlantic

Is it worth importing models of two-wheeled vehicles from abroad if there is no shortage of motorcycles in the country? This is the right question. Motorcycles from the USA are often much cheaper than in our country. And we're not just talking about damaged models here. However, is the amount itself attractive enough to make imports profitable? Any fees associated with importing motorcycles from the US can be discouraging. Check how much you actually have to spend on a motorcycle and paperwork!

Motorcycles from the USA - why from there?

There are several reasons, and price plays a significant role here. Motorcycles from the USA are cheaper than those offered in our home market or in other European countries. And this attracts customers and external companies that import such machines to Poland. This makes it easier to import because you don't have to go to the States to import such a bike. However, the price is only one of the factors influencing the great interest in cars from the USA.

Motorcycles from the USA, that is, not only the price is tempting

In addition to the possible savings of several thousand PLN, another incentive is the much wider motorcycle market. Americans love two-wheelers, so there are plenty of great deals to be found in many states. Motorcycles from the USA are usually very well maintained, even if they have some damage. Models that are not available in our country are also a lure for enthusiasts from the Vistula River. Can you really save on imports?

Importing motorcycles from the USA - how to save money on buying?

Motorcycle importers know that Americans love cash. And that translates into opportunities for negotiation. If on the Polish market it is sometimes difficult to “grab” at least a few hundred, then in the USA it is easier to negotiate and successfully complete them. If you know your business and speak English at least at a conversational level, then you can independently go looking for motorcycles from the USA. This is a great idea when you're planning a vacation abroad because you combine business with... pleasure.

Importing motorcycles from the USA - where to look for offers?

Probably the easiest way to look for offers in the domestic market is among companies that import such machines. If you do this, you will end up with formalities related to customs and other fees that must be paid at the time of purchase. Everything will already be included in the price. In addition, you can view the motorcycle on the spot and not wait for it for weeks. The downside of this solution is, of course, the higher price, because the importer earns only on the completion of all formal actions and the preparation of the motorcycle for sale.

US motorcycle and auction portals

Another way is to use offers from auction houses and portals with offers visible on the web. You can find interesting deals on ebay.com and craiglist.com. Motorcycles from the US are often listed on such sites by individuals and dealers. When looking for a specific model, you can see that there are definitely more interesting models on the American market than in our country. Once you have chosen a particular copy, you have two options - handle the formalities yourself or use the services of an import company.

US motorcycle auctions and their convolutions

The first method is good for people who are not afraid of all the necessary procedures. They are fluent in formalities, know what "Bill of Sale", "Certificate of Title" and "Bill of Landing" are, and speak English to a decent degree. It may be cheaper to import a motorcycle from the US on your own, but this can certainly cause additional problems. That is why many use the services of a company that will take care of all the necessary documents and complete the purchase.

How to bring a motorcycle from the USA?

The whole procedure is not particularly difficult. 

1. First, you need to know what you want to buy. If a private trader, you can bargain. In the case of auction houses, the purchase procedure is to overprice. 
2. After winning the auction, you immediately receive documents from the seller confirming the purchase and ownership. 
3. If you are importing motorcycles from the US, you must have these two most important documents - the Bill of Sale (i.e. the contract of sale) and the Certificate of Title, i.e. ownership. The first will allow you to register a model in our country, and the second will allow you to leave the States.
4. The next step is to prepare the engine for shipping. Items that could be damaged during the trip (fairing, racks) are best taken apart and mailed for a few tens of dollars. Also, be sure to secure the load itself very well. 
5. With a motorcycle prepared in this way, you need to head to the coast to pay for a container ship to Poland or somewhere else in Europe. It usually takes several weeks (about 5) to transport and unload at the warehouse at the destination.

How much does it cost to import a motorcycle from the US?

The price of two-wheeled transport is an individual matter. However, the costs associated with importing motorcycles from the US can be easily summed up. They are as follows:

• tax (depending on the state) - up to 10% of the cost of the vehicle;
• transportation costs in the USA - up to $ 500 depending on the place;
• auction house fees - up to $500;
• import across the ocean - $ 300-400 (plus insurance approx. $ 50);
• unloading in our country - about 300-40 euros
• customs agency - 30 euros
• duty - 10% of the amount of the car plus 23% VAT;
• car registration in our country (translation of documents, technical inspection, registration) - only 35 euros

If you're flying into the US alone, consider airfare and lodging as well.

Should I import motorcycles from the USA? If you are patient, you should consider importing. Motorcycles from the USA are a great offer, especially for those who want to buy a motorcycle at a bargain price. If you are not afraid of the inconvenience of waiting and possible repair costs, this is also an option for you. In the US, you can buy a two wheeler much cheaper in very good condition. There is another advantage - motorcycles in the USA often come in very custom versions and it is easier to buy an unconventional model. Calculate everything carefully and decide whether it will pay off!