Key Takeaways
- Vehicle shipping services require careful coordination of documents, carriers, and customs.
- Common paperwork includes the vehicle title, bill of sale, ID, and export/import forms.
- Safety and emissions standards must be met before a vehicle can be imported.
- Shipping methods include RoRo, containerized, and air freight—each with specific use cases.
- Costs vary by shipping type, destination, duties, and insurance coverage.
Thinking about moving a vehicle across international borders? Whether you’re a private buyer, seller, car collector, or dealer, international car shipping can be complex. From documentation requirements to compliance regulations, navigating car shipping logistics involves several moving parts—literally and figuratively.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps of car import export, highlight the most common costs involved, and explain how choosing the right vehicle shipping services partner can make all the difference.
Step 1: Understand the Basics of Car Import Export
The process of importing or exporting a vehicle involves coordinating with customs authorities, shipping carriers, and often multiple jurisdictions. You’ll need to determine:
- Origin and destination countries
- Vehicle ownership status
- Intended use (personal, resale, or commercial)
- Shipping method (roll-on/roll-off, containerized, or air freight)
Whether you’re importing a luxury vehicle from Germany or exporting a fleet to the Middle East, you’ll need to comply with local and international regulations before the vehicle can legally leave or enter a port.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documentation
To avoid delays or costly errors, it’s essential to gather the correct paperwork before booking your shipment. While requirements can vary slightly by country, most international shipments require the following:
- Vehicle title (must be original and in your name or authorized for export)
- Bill of sale or purchase invoice
- Photo ID or passport
- Customs forms (e.g., CBP Form 7501 for U.S. imports, export declarations)
- Letter of authorization (if using a freight forwarder or third-party agent)
In many countries, customs will hold or even seize the vehicle if there’s a discrepancy in documentation. A reliable vehicle shipping services provider can review and verify all documents before the shipment is scheduled, minimizing risk.
Step 3: Check Safety and Emissions Compliance
Vehicles being imported often need to meet the safety and environmental standards of the destination country. For instance, the U.S. requires compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
Common compliance checks include:
- Emission controls
- Lighting and turn signals
- Bumper and crash standards
- Odometer accuracy
- Airbags and restraint systems
If your vehicle doesn’t comply, you may be required to make costly modifications or go through a registered importer. This is especially important when shipping classic or foreign-manufactured cars.
Step 4: Choose the Right Shipping Method
There are several ways to ship a vehicle internationally, and the right option depends on your budget, vehicle type, and delivery timeline:
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo)
Vehicles are driven onto a vessel and secured for transport. RoRo is generally the most cost-effective and commonly used method for operable cars.
- Pros: Lower cost, faster scheduling
- Cons: Not suitable for non-running vehicles or cars with aftermarket modifications
Containerized Shipping
Vehicles are loaded into 20- or 40-foot containers—often with household goods or additional vehicles.
- Pros: Added protection, better for high-value or classic cars
- Cons: Higher cost, longer lead time due to container coordination
Air Freight
Used for luxury vehicles, rare classics, or urgent deliveries, air freight is the fastest and most secure method.
- Pros: Speed, precision handling
- Cons: Significantly more expensive
Partnering with a car shipping logistics expert can help you assess your vehicle’s value and condition to determine the best method for your needs.
Step 5: Calculate Costs and Duties
The cost of international car shipping varies widely depending on the origin, destination, and mode of transport. Here are the main cost categories:
1. Transportation Fees
- RoRo shipping: $1,000–$2,500 on average
- Container shipping: $2,000–$5,000 depending on size and port
- Air freight: $5,000+ for time-sensitive or high-value vehicles
2. Import Duties and Taxes
Each country sets its own tariffs. For example:
- U.S. imports: 2.5% for cars, 25% for trucks
- European Union: ~10% import duty + VAT
- Middle East: Often ranges between 5%–15%
3. Port Fees and Handling Charges
These include unloading, inspection, and terminal handling charges (THC), which vary by port.
4. Insurance
Most carriers offer marine cargo insurance based on the vehicle’s declared value. Insurance is typically 1–2% of the car’s value but is essential for high-value shipments.
Step 6: Select the Right Port
Port selection impacts your cost, delivery timeline, and customs clearance process. A good port is one that is:
- Close to your departure or destination location
- Well-equipped to handle your vehicle type
- Known for efficient customs processing
Working with an experienced freight forwarder helps you evaluate port availability, ship schedules, and even seasonal considerations like congestion or weather delays.
Why Work With a Vehicle Shipping Partner?
Attempting to handle car import export on your own can quickly become overwhelming. Partnering with a proven logistics provider like Allison Shipping offers several benefits:
- Customs Expertise
We manage all the regulatory paperwork, filings, and inspections required for both import and export. - Carrier Coordination
From booking vessel space to scheduling delivery, we handle the entire chain of car shipping logistics on your behalf. - Route Optimization
We help you choose the most efficient port pair and shipping method to reduce delays and lower costs. - Peace of Mind
With transparent pricing, real-time updates, and expert support, you can trust your vehicle is in capable hands—whether it’s going across the ocean or across borders.
Your Next Move in Vehicle Shipping
Navigating international car shipping may seem daunting, but with the right strategy and the right logistics partner, it becomes a seamless process. Understanding documentation, compliance, costs, and port selection are critical steps—but they don’t have to fall entirely on your shoulders.
Let Allison Shipping be your trusted guide in global vehicle shipping services. From start to finish, we simplify the journey—ensuring your vehicle arrives safely, legally, and on schedule.
Interested in shipping your freight internationally? Get Pricing on your next shipment today.
