International Car Shipping Services for Relocating Families
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
Moving across international borders is a significant step. Many individuals and families moving from the U.S. abroad require additional help when it comes to transporting cars, trucks, vans or SUVs from point A to point B. From luxury automobiles, motorcycles and RVs to family sedans, International Sea & Air Shipping offers convenient international car shipping services tailored to your needs.
Our Multiple Strategies for International Car Shipping
We have been in business for over 78 years. With a global network spanning over 600 partner locations, International Sea & Air Shipping is ready to help you complete customs documentation and provide the guidance you need from the moment your vehicle is picked up through its final delivery.
When you partner with us, you can choose from several options for international vehicle shipping.
Roll-On/Roll-Off Shipping Services
As one of the most cost-effective methods for vehicle relocation, roll-on/roll-off shipping procedures are excellent for traditional sedans, compact cars, SUVs and other vehicles. Your automobile is driven onto a specialized vessel, secured for transit and carefully driven off once it reaches its destination.
Many individuals and families choose roll-on/roll-off shipping strategies because the process is straightforward and can be completed at a reduced price compared to methods requiring covered storage space. Note that roll-on/roll-off shipping requires your vehicle to be stored with exterior surfaces exposed to the elements.
Container Shipping Services
International Sea & Air Shipping offers container shipping. Enclose your car, truck or SUV within a secure steel shipping container that is loaded onto a vessel. Our experts will explain your options for a 20-foot or 40-foot container. These options often leave room for more than one vehicle, exterior car accessories and attachments.
We recommend container shipping methods when you prefer weather protection throughout international travel. This is appropriate for luxury vehicles, classic cars, motorcycles and convertibles.
Air Freight Shipping Services
Looking to transport your vehicle quickly? Consider air freight for expedited delivery. Depending on the destination, air freight international car shipping gets your car, truck or SUV where it needs to be in a matter of days versus weeks. Additionally, your car benefits from heightened security, as it is typically loaded and unloaded once.
The International Car Shipping Process
Our team is passionate about helping individuals and families relocate vehicles. We understand that an international move can be complicated, so we make your experience both manageable and organized.
Each vehicle transport is unique, but the general steps of our process include:
- Documentation preparation: We inform you of the documents you will need before we can relocate your automobile.
- Vehicle preparation: Our experts advise you to remove personal belongings and clean the interior for customs inspections. You may be instructed to disable alarm systems and reduce fuel levels below one-quarter tank.
- Shipping service selection: You will work with a representative to inform us about which shipping method you would like.
- Delivery planning: You can pick up your vehicle at a network port location or have the vehicle delivered to your door.
- Tracking detail review: International Sea & Air Shipping provides a reference number to track your vehicle on its journey.
Assistance With International Car Shipping Documentation
International Sea & Air Shipping supports you by organizing the required paperwork for relocating your car, truck, van or SUV. It is our goal to help you clear customs without obstacles. Some of the documentation elements you may need to collect include a vehicle’s original title and current registration. You will be prompted to complete an HS-7 Declaration Form and EPA 3520-1 Form once we learn the specifications of your vehicle, its weight and dimensions.
If your vehicle is still under a lien or lease, one of our representatives may request authorization letters from the lienholder. Details such as the VIN, owner information, contact details and a dated signature are required before international car shipping services move forward.
Preparing for U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Our team helps you understand what is required of you prior to vehicle shipping for a smooth experience once your car, truck, van or SUV gets to U.S. Customs. U.S. Customs and Border Protection workers assess your situation and often request official orders or authorization letters, allowing your automobile to move through the checkpoint.
New vehicles will need a Bill of Sale, Original Certificate of Origin and a copy of the DOT compliance label. The latter helps prove that the vehicle meets safety and theft-prevention standards.
It is important to note that destination country regulations look different between locations. It is possible that the age of your vehicle, its emission testing status and onboard safety features will undergo review prior to entry. Our customs professionals will help you understand your responsibilities at clearance checkpoints, including applicable duties and taxes.
The Value of a Professional International Car Shipping Partner
It’s essential to work with an experienced partner for international vehicle transport services. Our professionals keep safe loading and unloading techniques, as well as secure fastening methods, at the center of everything we do.
International Sea & Air Shipping is licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Department of Transportation (USDOT), proving our commitment to security, safety and compliance. We’re also proud to be members of the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA), European Mover Partnership (EUROMOVERS) International and International Association of Movers (IAM) — a reflection of our hard work and decades in the business.
Our team operates with professionalism through each stage of the international car shipping process, so you can feel confident we are transparent about relocation timelines and the total cost of service before your vehicle embarks on its journey.
Contact International Sea & Air Shipping for a Quote
International Sea & Air Shipping is ready to help you coordinate your long-distance move. Regardless of whether you are relocating to Europe, the Caribbean or anywhere else, we have the global network and transport experience necessary for success. You can contact our team to learn more about our services or request a free quote.
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.
As one of the most cost-effective methods for vehicle relocation, roll-on/roll-off shipping procedures are excellent for traditional sedans, compact cars, SUVs and other vehicles. Your automobile is driven onto a specialized vessel, secured for transit and carefully driven off once it reaches its destination.
Many individuals and families choose roll-on/roll-off shipping strategies because the process is straightforward and can be completed at a reduced price compared to methods requiring covered storage space. Note that roll-on/roll-off shipping requires your vehicle to be stored with exterior surfaces exposed to the elements.
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.
