Just because you’re moving internationally, it doesn’t mean that you’ll have to get rid of your luxury car. There are many options for shipping it to where you’ll be moving to and to help make sure that your luxury car arrives there smoothly.

Finding a Company When you own an expensive luxury car, you think twice about where you park it and who gets to drive it. Obviously, after investing a substantial amount of money into your car it’s important not to rush into any decisions when choosing a company to ship it internationally. Although it may seem like the best route to choose the most affordable rate, you may be choosing cut-rate service.

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Take the time to research and find a reputable company. Search for any company you receive a quote from on the Better Business Bureau’s website, for any open complaints and to see if the company is accredited by the BBB.

Things to ask the company:

  • How long have they been in business?
  • Do they have experience shipping luxury and/or sports cars?
  • Will they ship door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal?
  • How often do they ship? (Weekly, monthly, etc.)
  • Ask for reviews and references with contact information.
  • Does the quoted price include any/all fees needed to transport your car?
  • What kind of insurance is offered during your shipment?

Once you’ve found a company to ship your luxury car to your new home country, it’s important to take the time to do everything you can to make it a smooth process. There are steps you should take before and after the shipping process to keep in mind.

Before Shipping It’s a good idea to obtain copies of insurance policies and all other agreements or promises in writing in order to avoid misunderstandings later. Because you’re transporting a luxury vehicle, it might also be wise to consider a supplementary insurance coverage for the transport.

  • Clean and wash your car Inspect your car to make sure it’s in good running condition
  • Remove personal items from the car
  • Turn off the alarm, remove antennae (if possible) and fold the mirrors back
  • Remove loose parts or cover and store them carefully – including fog lights, spoilers and mirrors
  • Check your battery – make sure it’s charged
  • Check your fluids – make sure there are no leaks
  • Check the tires to make sure they are properly inflated
  • Take note of any exterior damages and make a report. Take photos/video of the car and date the information
  • Make sure the gas tank is only 1/4 filled with fuel

In addition to that checklist, talk to your shipping agent regarding insurance for your vehicle, the method of transportation and the method of pick-up and delivery. Familiarize yourself with the international shipping customs of the country you are shipping your car to and learn any restrictions they may have.

In some countries, restrictions can be applied to the size and location of the steering wheel, the car’s age and various other factors. For example, a classic car must be 25 years or older and in a car has to be at least 5 years old in order to be shipped.

After Shipping

Upon arrival, verify the condition of your car. Check for any damage including scratches, dents, etc. The best time to accept delivery of your car is during the day so that you can thoroughly inspect your car. When checking your car for damage, also note the mileage of your car and compare it to the mileage reading from before the shipment.

If damage is found, get the driver’s signature and then contact the car shipping company. If you’ve received poor customer service, contact the company’s customer dispute department and try to work something out. If the problem persists, you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.

If there are grounds to file a claim, do them as soon as possible after delivery of your car. Damages cannot be claimed if any of it is not signed by the driver at the time of delivery.

At International Air and Sea Shipping, we offer full coverage insurance plans for shipping your vehicle overseas. Just inquire about details and pricing when you receive your international auto shipping estimate!