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 an RV, International Air & Shipping is able to offer complete service for the transport of your automobile and deliver it safe and secure.
Our worldwide network and services make shipping your car overseas easy and carefree, from the handling of all customs paperwork to insuring that you get access to the most reliable insurance available for your vehicle. With a variety of shipping options available to you, 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 surefire and secure 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. When budget is a concern, ocean freight shipping is the standard method of transport and with air freight you get quicker delivery for urgent shipments.
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping
Roll-On/Roll-Off shipping is simply the method of transport used that is widely known in international car shipping. The vehicle is simply driven into place, fastened and then transported. This is generally the cheapest option for regular vehicles, though the process 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 had an 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: Good option for a fragile, expensive or luxury car because the car is fully guarded from weather and handling dangers that way.
- Cons: RoRo is cheaper than the alternative 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. The air freight is the costliest, but it ensures that the goods are delivered in a matter of days.
- Pros: Quick, secure, perfect if you’re in a luxury vehicle or need to make a delivery in a hurry.
- Cons: High cost most of the time, not practical on typical cars.
Conventional On-Deck Shipping
Your vehicle travels on the deck of a ship in this service. Companies that are involved in the transportation of cars use this method more often.
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
No matter if it’s a car to Europe, the Caribbean or Asia, shipping your vehicle overseas can be boiled down into several main steps:
- 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 -We will accept the vehicle with gas tanks ¼ full –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 prefer 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 are usually 2 – 3 days, however in some cases they can take up to TEN DAYS. For instance, orders shipped to Europe generally take 2 – 4 weeks to arrive; The Caribbean & Asia 3 – 6 weeks.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
When shipping your vehicle overseas, it is important to prepare the car in order for the international auto transport process to go smoothly and without complications.
- Remove all personal items
Take all personal items out of the car because nothing should be in your vehicle when it gets transported. During our trip, personal items can get lost or damaged in the mail and it will be on your shipping company, not ours. - Do not leave more than one gallon of fuel
It also has to carry a lot of extra fuel during transit, and trimming down the weight it carries in fuel will reduce part of the total vehicle’s mass for shipping. Do not leave more than 1 gallon of gas in the tank. - Check the fluid levels in the expansion tank
It may be necessary to adjust fluid levels in the expansion tank so that they don’t over heat or exceed pressure capacities during transportation. Make sure there is space for air and antifreeze to expand. - Check the battery
Ensure your battery is charged since you could be assessed penalties if the car won’t start when it needs to during shipping. There’s little that can ruin your day more than a dead battery. - Thoroughly clean your car
Clean and wipe down the inside and outside of your car. This enables you to examine the car for any damage prior to shipping, and will make it easier to note issues upon arrival. - Disable any alarms
Disable any anti-theft devices so the driver can enter your car without delay to load or unload. - Remove or secure loose parts
Remove removable parts like antenna and cover those that can’t be removed, such as spoilers or fog lights. Cover these elements with protective coating so as to avoid any damage that may occur during transportation.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car Internationally?
International Auto Shipping Cost The cost to ship a car internationally is not at all cut and dried. These are the distance, mode of shipment and the type of vehicle to be shipped. Factors influencing the cost:
- Distance and Shipping Route: The distance traveled directly correlates to cost. It will be cheaper to send ships to near regions such as the Caribbean than it will be to go 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 space a lot more and add weight on 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 pay 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, from $10,000 for air freight and $30,000 or more for container shipping.
Be sure you receive an itemized quote from your shipping company 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 pick-up 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. Many companies offer crating services to ensure the vehicle is fully enclosed and shielded from damage.
Convenience
A solid shipping company takes care of the details like logistics, customs paperwork and timing. Plenty will save you the hassle of picking up a car in person altogether with door-to-door delivery and storage until you’re ready.
Cost-Effective
Though the service isn’t free, it’s generally less expensive than cleaning up a mess, correcting a delay or fixing a mistake. Some companies will give you reduced rates for transporting more than one car.
How to Choose the Right International Car Shipping Company
If you’re in need of international movers, make sure the 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 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?
Additional Services to Look For
“Issues arise from lack of inspection and inability to track vehicle,” according to the complaint Carriers often also include extras that make moving a car easier, like customs brokerage and assistance for paperwork, real-time vehicle tracking for peace of mind, and secure storage if your car gets there early.
Get Insurance
Your car will cover a great distance, and in case any kind of damage during international moving, (should I even utter the wish further not), you most certainly would want to be reimbursed for it.
When you send your car overseas, it’s critical that you buy full car insurance coverage. Minimum coverage is, of course, mandated by law but you might want to ask about extra insurance to cover your car completely.
We provide all risk/total loss insurance coverage for automobile shipping internationally to satisfy the requests of our clients. Just inquire about them when you get your car shipping quote!
Secure and Efficient International Car Shipping Solutions
We provide 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 a hassle free transport.
Whether you are moving by car or just need a convenient way to ship your vehicle, we can help. Contact us today to receive a free quote and find more information on how we can help with your car shipping needs.
FAQ’s
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car Overseas?
They tend to arrive in Europe about two to four weeks later, and in the Caribbean or Asia between three and six weeks later. It is according to the shipping way and area you ship.
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 so that when it is time to ship, this does not become a problem.
Can I Ship a Car with Some of My Personal Items Inside?
No actually you have to remove any personal items from your car before shipping.
Do you need insurance to ship a car?
Yes, insurance is definitely suggested to safeguard you car during shipping. While some types of coverage are mandated by law, it’s a good idea to look into other forms of insurance if you want full protection.
Is There Anyway I Can Track My Car During the Shipment?
Yes, there are lots of 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 and yes there are ‘customs.’.. And paperwork. Make sure there are no import restrictions in place when sending.
Can You Ship My Car from US to Europe?
Yes, you can ship your car from the US to Europe. Options such as Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping are some of the options we have, depending on your vehicles needs and how you would like to ship.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly Your Car to Dubai?
Air freight, shipping high-end or luxury car to Dubai with the fastest and most secure option. It’s the most expensive shipping choice but will deliver your vehicle in 2-5 days, so if you’re moving a luxury car or need it delivered by a specific date this is the best method.
How Can I Ferry My Car from the UK to Turkey?
Shipping cars from the UK to Turkey requires some familiarity with the customs regulations in both countries. You will need certain documentation, such as ownership papers and customs forms, to ensure your shipment passes both UK and Turkish law.
