Exporting a Financed, Leased, or Salvage Vehicle

Resolve a lien or lease early

Under 19 CFR 192.2, a leased vehicle or one with a recorded U.S. lien needs express export permission from the interested third party in addition to the required title documents. The writing must be on its letterhead, describe the vehicle and VIN, identify the owner or lienholder and contact numbers, and bear an original signature and date.

Ask the lender or lessor what it will authorize, how long issuance takes, and whether the agreement restricts destinations or duration. A payment statement or a generic domestic relocation letter should not be assumed to satisfy export consent.

Identify the actual ownership document

For a U.S. certificate of title or salvage title that remains in force, the regulation calls for the original or a government-certified copy and two complete copies. A seller's ordinary photocopy is not automatically a certified copy.

The rule provides different document paths for foreign titles, MSOs, junk or scrap certificates, and certain untitled situations. Have the export agent and CBP review your actual category. Do not rename a junk certificate as a salvage title or assume that a bill of sale replaces every missing document.

Check destination eligibility before inland transport

Send the destination import professional an accurate description of the title brand and vehicle condition. Ask whether the vehicle may enter, whether repairs or inspections are required, and whether it can be registered for the intended use. Obtain the answer before moving it to a departure port when possible.

Export-document eligibility is only one checkpoint. The ocean operator may reject a damaged or inoperable vehicle even when ownership documents are satisfactory. Battery condition needs particular attention for EVs and plug-in hybrids.

Keep the review organized

– List the document presently available and the person holding it. – Identify every lien, lease, or other ownership interest that needs resolution. – Confirm the destination's position on the title brand and vehicle condition. – Obtain written carrier acceptance for the actual vehicle. – Coordinate originals, copies, electronic filing, and the port timeline.

Keep originals secure and track any authorized transfer. Share sensitive documents only through verified channels with the parties that require them, not through a general quote inquiry.

Common questions

Does paying off the loan immediately create export-ready paperwork?

Not necessarily. Confirm when the lien release and acceptable title documents will be available.

Does a salvage title guarantee permission to import abroad?

No. The destination applies its own requirements.

Can an agent promise to solve missing ownership records after sailing?

Resolve the required documents before departure. Ask CBP or a qualified export professional about the lawful path for your specific record.

Coordinate the next step

Confirm export, import, or coverage questions with the responsible carrier, agency, insurer, or qualified trade professional. For a U.S. inland transport inquiry, request a callback with the route and vehicle details. This inquiry does not arrange customs clearance, establish eligibility, book transportation, or take payment.

Related guides

• Ship leased financed car
• The 72-Hour Rule for Exporting a Used Vehicle
• Shipping a Flood-Damaged, Fire-Damaged, or Salvage Vehicle

Browse all car shipping guides.

Sources and further reading

• 19 CFR Part 192 — Vehicle export controls

Sources checked October 11, 2026. Confirm current requirements for your shipment. This is general information, not an individual legal, insurance, or eligibility determination. Reference links do not imply endorsement of Highroad.