International Car Shipping
Shipping your car internationally can be a smooth experience with true professionals by your side. Let International Sea & Air Shipping handle your car relocation.
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Start Your International Moving Journey
When you need to move a vehicle from one country to another, international car shipping services are the easiest, most secure, and safest solution. Whether you have a family car, luxury vehicle, motorcycle, or RV, International Sea & Air Shipping offers complete services for the transport of your automobile and delivers it safely.
International Sea & Air Shipping’s worldwide network and services make shipping your car overseas simple and carefree, from the handling of all customs paperwork to ensuring that you get access to the most reliable insurance available for your vehicle.
With a variety of shipping options available, we make shopping as easy on your wallet as it is on our website. Contact our car transport teams for complete assistance.
How Do They Transport Cars/Ship Cars Internationally or Across the Globe?
International auto shipping is a secure and reliable way to move your car. There are a few ways to do this, each of which comes with pros and cons based on your vehicle, budget, and timeline.
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping
Roll-on/roll-off shipping is simply the method of transport used, which is widely known in international car shipping. The vehicle is simply driven into place, fastened, and then transported. This format is generally the cheapest option for regular vehicles, and the process is easy and efficient.
- Pros: It’s low-cost and easy to set up, since there is little handling involved.
- Cons: The exposed vehicle can be susceptible to the elements during transport, and this type of shipping isn’t ideal for luxury or rare cars that need additional protection.
Container Shipping
Container shipping also provides more security and peace of mind, as your vehicle will be safely located inside a steel shipping container. You have the option of a 20-foot or 40-foot container (depending on whether you want to ship additional items or other vehicles in the same container).
- Pros: This is an excellent choice for fragile, expensive, or luxury cars, as it provides complete protection from weather and potential hazards.
- Cons: RoRo shipping is cheaper than international container shipping.
Air Freight International Car Shipping
Air freight offers the fastest and most secure method of transport. This method is typically used on heavy vehicles, including luxury cars needing a higher degree of protection and speed. Air freight is the most expensive option, but it ensures that the goods are delivered in a matter of days.
- Pros: Quick, secure, and perfect if you’re in a luxury vehicle or need to make a delivery in a hurry.
- Cons: It is often expensive and not practical for typical cars.
Conventional On-Deck Shipping
Your vehicle travels on the deck of a ship in this service. Conventional on-deck shipping is less common today and is generally reserved for specialized or oversized vehicles where container or RoRo options are unavailable.
Required Documents and Customs Regulations
Shipping a vehicle overseas requires several key documents to clear customs. Requirements can vary by country, but you’ll typically need:
- Original Vehicle Title (or a certified copy)
- Current registration
- HS-7 Declaration Form
- EPA 3520-1 Form
If the Vehicle Has a Lien / Lease
- Lien holder authorization letter, including:
- VIN
- Owner/lien holder name
- Phone number
- Signature + date
For U.S. Government / Military Employees
- Official orders or an authorization letter permitting vehicle shipment.
For Newly Purchased Vehicles
- Bill of Sale
- Original Certificate of Origin
- Copy of the DOT compliance label
- If missing: a manufacturer letter confirming the vehicle meets U.S. safety and theft-prevention standards.
If You Cannot Be Present During Export
- A Power of Attorney may be required.
Customs Rules by Country
- Age limits, emissions standards, and safety requirements vary.
- Some countries restrict older vehicles completely.
- Duties and taxes depend on vehicle value, engine size, and specifications.
A Complete Walk-through of International Car Shipping
Whether you’re shipping a car to Europe, the Caribbean, or Asia, there are several main steps to consider when shipping your vehicle overseas:
- Documentation: Make sure you have all required documents, such as the Certificate of Title, Proof of Registration, and customs forms like HS-7 or EPA 3520. If you get instructions from a lienholder or leasing company to do otherwise, then you’ll need permission from the lienholder.
- Vehicle Preparation: Clear personal items from vehicle—Fuel levels should not exceed one-quarter of the tank (typically 1–2 gallons), depending on carrier and port regulations. Please clean your car, as it needs to be inspected. You’ll also want to disarm any alarms and detach accessories, such as antennas.
- Choosing a Shipping Method: If you also wish to balance your car’s value and nature of protection with a specific budget, then you can choose between RoRo, container, or air freight transport.
- Delivery Options: Select the door-to-door delivery if you want to save time or go for port-to-port transport if you have your own trailer, crate, etc.
- Estimated Delivery Times: Deliveries usually take 2–3 days; Ocean transit timelines vary by destination. For instance, Europe typically takes 2–4 weeks to arrive; the Caribbean & Asia, 3–6 weeks.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Internationally?
The cost of shipping a car internationally is a complex process. Key factors include distance, mode of shipment, and type of vehicle to be shipped:
- Distance and Shipping Route: The distance traveled directly correlates to cost. Sending ships to the Caribbean will be cheaper than sending them to Asia or the Middle East.
- Shipping Method: RoRo is the cheapest mode of transport, whereas container shipping and air freight are more costly due to the added protection/speed.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: The larger and heavier the vehicle, the more you will have to pay, as such vehicles take up a lot more space and add weight on the ship.
- Customs Fees and Taxes: Taxes (except sales tax where applicable) and customs duties are not included at the checkout and could be required to be paid upon delivery. There are set tariffs in countries such as Germany and the UK, which depend on a vehicle’s age, value, and engine capacity.
- Insurance and Additional Services: You need to have full insurance coverage for your vehicle throughout the shipping. Selecting door-to-door service or electing specialized handling also can increase the price.
Shipping Costs to Popular Destinations
- Shipping to Europe: Usually $900-$2,000 depending on location/shipper.
- Shipping to Dubai: Prices fluctuate wildly, air freight for luxury vehicles can exceed $10,000 depending on size and urgency and ranges from $3,500–$7,500 for container shipping.
Be sure you receive an itemized quote from International Sea & Air Shipping so there are no surprises.
Advantages of Professional Car Shipping Services
Selecting a professional car shipping service will ensure your vehicle is moved overseas in the least stressful and safest way possible. From pickup to the point of delivery, your car is treated with utmost care, and professionals take responsibility for everything along the way.
Safety and Security
Professional drivers use a safe loading technique and can offer extra security for antique cars or high-value vehicles. International Sea & Air Shipping offers optional crating services to ensure the vehicle is fully enclosed and shielded from damage.
Convenience
International Sea & Air Shipping takes care of all logistics, customs paperwork, and timing. This will save you the hassle of picking up a car in person altogether with door-to-door delivery and storage until you’re ready.
How to Choose the Right International Car Shipping Company
If you’re in need of international movers, make sure the moving company also has access to full auto shipping services and facilities so that your move can be as smooth and worry-free as possible. Here’s what you should look for:
- Licensing and Certifications: If you’re using an international car shipper, make sure they are licensed by either the FMCSA or NVOCC, which means that they comply with all of the safety and transport standards.
- Insurance Policies for Car Shipping: Ensure that the moving company provides great insurance options, especially if you are shipping an expensive car.
- Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Review customer testimonials to ensure that they are reliable, professional, and on time.
To check on this before you hire, be sure to ask:
- How much does the whole thing cost, including add-ons?
- When would my order be delivered?
- What insurance options are available?
- Am I able to track my car in transit?
Secure and Efficient International Car Shipping Solutions
International Sea & Air Shipping provides the best transportation solutions. From selecting the best shipping option to handling customs documentation and providing full insurance, we ensure your car will be there on time and safely. No matter if you’re sending to Europe, the Caribbean, or the Middle East, our company will ensure hassle-free transport.
Whether you are moving by car or just need a convenient way to ship your vehicle, we can help. Contact International Sea & Air Shipping today to receive a free quote and find more information on how we can help with your car shipping needs.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car Overseas?
Shipping to Europe typically takes 2–4 weeks, and in the Caribbean or Asia between three and six weeks later. Transit times depend on the shipping and destination.
What Paperwork Do You Need to Ship a Car Internationally?
You will need to prepare the following documents to ship a car overseas: Certificate of Title, Proof of Registration, and customs declaration papers (HS-7 or EPA 3520). You should have all the papers you need to ship.
Can I Ship a Car with Some of My Personal Items Inside?
No. All personal items must be removed before shipping.
Do you need insurance to ship a car?
Yes, insurance is definitely suggested to safeguard your car during shipping. Although the law mandates certain types of coverage, it’s advisable to explore alternative insurance options for comprehensive protection.
Is There Any Way I Can Track My Car During the Shipment?
Yes, there are many providers these days that will track your vehicle so you can see where it is at all times. This could offer peace of mind and help you track your vehicle as it travels.
Can I Ship My Car to Germany?
Yes, you can ship your car to Germany, there are customs and paperwork. Make sure there are no import restrictions in place when sending.
