A Complete Guide to Importing Salvage and Used Cars from the USA to Dubai (2025)
Importing salvage or used cars from the United States to Dubai is a smart way to save money and access a wide range of vehicles. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what salvage cars are, why people import them, how to buy one, and how to ship and register it in Dubai.
What Is a Salvage Car?
In the U.S., when a car is badly damaged (due to an accident, flood, or fire) and insurance companies decide not to repair it, it gets a Salvage Title. These salvage cars can still be repaired and legally driven, once approved and registered.
Many salvage cars are still in good condition and much cheaper than regular used cars.
Why Import Salvage Cars from the USA to Dubai?
- Lower prices than buying similar models locally
- Wide selection of American cars (Tesla, Dodge, Chevrolet, etc.)
- Access to U.S. auto auctions with great deals
- Opportunity to fix and sell for profit in Dubai
Some buyers also go for regular used cars, but salvage cars offer the biggest price advantage — especially for those with access to reliable repairs.
How to Import a Salvage or Used Car to Dubai
1. Find and Buy the Car
You can search for salvage cars or used vehicles through online U.S. auction websites:
Some of these platforms allow international buyers without a U.S. dealer license.
2. Check the Car’s History
Before buying, check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) using:
You’ll learn about accidents, damage level, mileage, and title status (Salvage, Rebuilt, or Clean).
3. Shipping to Dubai (Jebel Ali Port)
After purchase, you need to ship the car from the U.S. to Dubai. We recommend choosing a reliable logistics company.
Novex Shipping is a trusted name in Dubai with years of experience in international car shipping. They handle:
- Car pickup from U.S. auctions
- Shipping, insurance, and customs paperwork
- Delivery to Jebel Ali Port
- Optional home delivery in Dubai
They’re highly rated and specialize in salvage car imports.
4. Customs Clearance & Registration in Dubai
When the vehicle arrives:
- Prepare documents: title, invoice, damage report
- Pay import taxes and customs duty
- Pass RTA inspection (especially important for salvage cars)
- Register the car with Dubai RTA
Not all salvage cars pass inspection, so check eligibility before shipping.
Things to Be Aware Of
- Some salvage cars may be hard to register
- Repair costs may be higher than expected
- Limited insurance options for salvage titles
- Lower resale value compared to clean used cars
Tips Before You Buy
- Only work with trusted platforms and shippers
- Double-check VIN history and damage photos
- Calculate full costs (buy + ship + repair + register)
- Make sure the car can be approved by RTA
Estimated Costs to Import Salvage Cars from the USA to Dubai (2025)
| # | Car Model (Year) | Auction Price (Approx. USD) | Shipping to Dubai (USD) | Total Cost to Dubai Port (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Honda Accord 2019 | $5,500 | $1,500 | $7,000 |
| 2 | Toyota Camry 2020 | $6,200 | $1,500 | $7,700 |
| 3 | Ford F-150 2018 | $7,800 | $1,800 | $9,600 |
| 4 | BMW 3 Series 2017 | $6,000 | $1,600 | $7,600 |
| 5 | Chevrolet Silverado 2019 | $8,500 | $1,800 | $10,300 |
| 6 | Acura RDX 2020 | $7,200 | $1,600 | $8,800 |
| 7 | Dodge Charger 2018 | $6,800 | $1,700 | $8,500 |
| 8 | Nissan Altima 2019 | $5,000 | $1,500 | $6,500 |
| 9 | Tesla Model 3 2018 | $9,500 | $1,800 | $11,300 |
| 10 | Jeep Grand Cherokee 2019 | $7,000 | $1,700 | $8,700 |
Important Notes:
- Auction Prices are estimated based on average winning bids for salvage cars in U.S. auctions. Prices vary depending on damage level, location, and demand.
- Shipping Costs include ocean freight from the U.S. to Jebel Ali or Hamriyah Port in Dubai. Costs vary based on vehicle size, shipping method (RoRo vs. container), and the shipping company used.
- Total Cost reflects the price to purchase and ship the vehicle to Dubai. It does not include customs duties, repairs, or registration fees.
Additional Costs After Arrival in Dubai:
- Customs Duty: Usually around 5% of the vehicle's value.
- Clearance and Registration Fees: Depends on vehicle type and RTA requirements.
- Repair Costs: Vary depending on damage and spare part availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a salvage car?
Answer: A salvage car is a vehicle declared a total loss by insurance but can be repaired and reused. They're often cheaper but require proper inspection and paperwork.
Can I register a salvage car in Dubai?
Answer: Yes, if the car passes RTA inspection. Not all salvage cars qualify, so it’s smart to confirm before buying.
Where can I buy salvage cars from the U.S.?
Answer: Trusted online auction platforms include:
What’s the best way to ship the car to Dubai?
Answer: Work with experienced companies like Novex Shipping who handle everything from pickup to delivery.
How much does it cost to import a salvage car?
Answer: Costs depend on car price, shipping, repairs, and customs. Salvage cars are cheaper upfront, but make sure they’re worth fixing.
