International Car Shipping from the USA

Every year, SDC International Shipping helps clients ship vehicles to destinations all around the world. Based in the Los Angeles area, we are a trusted international car shipping company specializing in safe and reliable transport. Many of our customers are relocating temporarily for work or studies, while others are moving permanently to enjoy retirement overseas.

Additionally, foreign nationals often return to their home countries after living in the U.S., and many tourists buy vehicles at auctions or antique shows in the United States, looking to ship them back home.

Whatever the reason for relocating from the U.S., many of our clients choose to ship their cars or other vehicles as part of their international move.

Figuring Out International Car Shipping Regulations

When shipping your vehicle overseas, understanding the international car shipping regulations is crucial. Many countries allow permanent residents or returning citizens to import a car without paying import taxes, provided the car is between six months and five years old. However, some countries won’t allow cars older than five years unless they are certified antiques.

Typically, you must have owned the vehicle for at least six months before exporting it. If you’re planning a move soon, it’s important to check the local regulations right away and adjust your plans accordingly, perhaps upgrading to a newer car if needed.

If you don’t meet the immigration requirement, you can still ship your car, but import taxes will apply in the destination country. Additionally, most countries require you to keep the vehicle for one to three years after importing it before you can resell it.

Before driving your car in a new country, many places require vehicles to undergo inspection and receive local licensing. Some countries may allow you to drive temporarily until you obtain a local ID or address, but check these rules in advance.

Keep in mind that some countries only permit 4-wheel drive vehicles for families, and there are often different rules for light pickups versus heavy pickups, which are classified as commercial vehicles in many places.

Localization adjustments may also be necessary. Countries may have specific regulations regarding emissions, headlights, or license plate size. If your car doesn’t meet local standards, it will need modifications. Garages near licensing facilities typically handle these adjustments.

Even if you’ve ordered door-to-door service, cars often must be delivered to an inspection garage, and in some countries, your physical presence is required during the inspection process.

All countries require that the vehicle being exported belongs to the person shipping it, who should also be the person receiving it. While a few countries may require specific export permission for your vehicle, this is not common. Your SDC relocation specialist can help verify the exact requirements for your destination country.

 

 

Popular Car Shipping Destinations Around the World

• United Kingdom
• Ireland
• Germany
• Austria

• Australia
• China
• Hong Kong
• Dubai

• Switzerland
• Italy
• Spain
• Portugal

Driving on the Right

When shipping a car overseas, it’s important to check whether your destination country allows right-hand drive cars. Approximately one-third of the world’s countries drive on the left side of the road, which means vehicles have the steering column on the right-hand side. Standard American cars, with the steering column on the left, cannot be licensed in these countries without special exceptions, typically for antique cars.

Popular left-hand drive relocation destinations include Australia, New Zealand, India, Japan, and the UK. While some countries may have more relaxed regulations, you should also consider that replacement parts for right-hand drive cars may not be readily available.

Before shipping your car, make sure to confirm the regulations in your destination country to avoid complications.

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International Motorcycle Shipping

Even if you’re unable to ship your car, there’s a good chance you can still ship your motorcycle internationally. Be aware that in some countries, motorcycle controls may be inverted, but many nations still allow standard setups.

Many countries permit the import of both a motorcycle and a car, which isn’t typically an issue for most families since each returning citizen can bring one vehicle. If you’re shipping both, it’s important to check the specific regulations for your destination.

If you own a motorcycle, you’ll likely want to take it with you. When using a private container, SDC International Shipping’s professional movers will ensure your motorcycle is prepared for shipment by emptying fluids, crating, and securing it properly inside the container for safe transport.

Before shipping your vehicle internationally, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents for both export and import. The typical documents required include:

• Vehicle Registration
• Title
• Bill of Lading
• Notarized Bill of Sale
• Completed EPA Forms
• DOT Forms
• New Insurance Policy

Additional documentation may be required depending on your destination. As regulations frequently change, it’s crucial to be as prepared as possible. We recommend planning your move at least a month in advance to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork in order.

Your SDC relocation specialist will guide you through the documentation process and notify you of any new requirements that may arise during your preparation.

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International Car Shipping Options

How your vehicle is shipped depends on the logistics of your specific move. At SDC International Shipping, we offer multiple international car shipping options:

• Containerized Shipment: Your vehicle can be shipped in a sole or shared container. A shared container is a cost-effective solution, though it may take longer to fill before shipping.
• Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO): In RORO shipping, your vehicle is driven onto a specialized vessel and secured for transport. This option is often faster but provides less protection than containerized shipment.
• Air Freight: If convenience and speed are priorities, we also offer air freight, allowing your vehicle to be shipped by plane. While this is the fastest and most secure method, it is also the most expensive.

Each method offers different benefits depending on your timing, budget, and preferences.

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Containerized Car Shipment

At SDC International Shipping, we offer containerized car shipment for those seeking secure transportation for their vehicle. You can choose between two options:

• Sole Container: Your car is shipped in a private container, providing the fastest and most secure option.
• Shared Container: If you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, your car can be shipped in a shared container with other vehicles. However, this may take longer as we wait for the container to be filled before shipping.

Most cars, SUVs, and light pickup trucks can fit inside a shipping container. The most economical option is often a larger container that holds both your household goods and your vehicle. For example, the internal width of a standard shipping container is 7′ 8″. A vehicle like the Toyota Highlander (76 inches wide) just fits, making it a great choice for containerized shipping.

Choosing a containerized shipment ensures that your vehicle is protected from external elements and securely transported to your destination.

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RORO Shipping

Roll-on/roll-off (RORO) shipping is a cost-effective method for transporting vehicles. In RORO shipping, your car is driven directly onto a specialized vessel, secured in place, and then driven off when it arrives at your destination port. RORO vessels resemble large parking garages, designed to hold many vehicles during transit.

This method is generally faster than shipping in a shared container, as there’s no need to wait for the container to be filled. However, RORO is less protective than container shipping since your vehicle is exposed to external elements during the journey. Additionally, RORO ships often stop at multiple ports before reaching your destination, which can extend transit time compared to sole container shipping.

For those prioritizing cost and timely transport, RORO is a practical option, but for added protection, we recommend exploring containerized shipping.

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Shipping a Car By Air

Shipping your car by air freight is the fastest and most secure transportation method available, though it comes at a higher cost. This option is ideal for clients shipping high-value vehicles, such as vintage cars, luxury vehicles, or other autos that require extra protection.

While air freight is the most expensive method, it’s perfect for those who need rapid delivery or want the ultimate protection during transport. SDC International Shipping can help you assess whether this option is right for your timing and budget.

Although air freight is unmatched in speed and security, for most clients, we recommend sole container shipping as the best balance between cost-effectiveness, safety, and timely arrival.

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International car shipping cost

One of the first questions most people ask is, “How much does it cost to ship a car overseas?” While the exact cost depends on various factors, shipping a car in a container typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.

At SDC International Shipping, we recommend container shipping as the most secure and reliable method for transporting your vehicle. Roll-on/roll-off (RORO) shipping may seem less expensive upfront, but it lacks the protection of containerized shipping and can lead to costly damages or delays. For the safety and timely arrival of your vehicle, container shipping is the better investment.

Several factors influence the final cost of shipping your car, including:

• Type of vehicle
• Shipping container size (sole or shared)
• Origin and destination
• Customs regulations at the destination

To get an accurate estimate tailored to your needs, we recommend requesting a customized quote from SDC International Shipping. We will ensure you get the best possible rates for containerized car shipping, while prioritizing safety and timely delivery.

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What factors can affect the cost of shipping a car overseas?

 

Several factors influence the cost of shipping a car overseas, including:

• Type of Vehicle: Cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles can be shipped in containers. However, the rules for shipping motorcycles and cars may differ depending on the destination. Some countries allow you to send both a motorcycle and a car, while others limit it to one vehicle per family or per adult. Vehicles like ATVs, off-road bikes, and jet skis may also be shipped, but they may require special licensing in the destination country.

• Vehicle Size: Larger vehicles, like SUVs, full-size trucks, and RVs, may require a larger shipping container or specialized handling, which can affect the overall cost.

• Vehicle Licensing and Regulations: Vehicles must meet the safety and licensing regulations of the destination country. For example, some countries may permit only light motorcycles under 50 CC, while others don’t. It’s essential to ensure your vehicle complies with the local rules, and additional modifications may be required.

• Customs and Documentation: Ensuring that your vehicle has the necessary documentation, such as a cleared title, is crucial. SDC International Shipping will help you navigate customs requirements, including clearing the title and ensuring your vehicle is eligible for import in the destination country.

For the most accurate estimate, it’s best to get a customized quote from SDC International Shipping, where we account for all factors related to your specific vehicle and destination.

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Shipping Method

At SDC International Shipping, we only recommend container shipping for vehicles to ensure maximum safety and protection during transport. Here are the key options for international vehicle shipping:

• Containerized Shipping: Most cars, SUVs, and light pickup trucks can fit into a standard shipping container. For advanced planning, it’s important to check the dimensions of your vehicle to ensure it fits within the container. If you’re considering purchasing a new vehicle before your move, we recommend buying it at least six months in advance of your relocation to meet shipping and legal requirements.

• Oversized Vehicles: For larger vehicles such as full-size SUVs, vans, RVs, or boats, container shipping can still be arranged using specialized containers designed to handle oversized loads. This method ensures that even larger vehicles are securely transported without exposure to the elements.

Avoid methods such as open containers that expose your vehicle to natural elements like wind and water, which could lead to potential damage. SDC International Shipping uses only fully enclosed containers, ensuring your vehicle is protected from the moment it’s loaded until it arrives at your destination.

For the best safety and peace of mind, containerized shipping is the only option we recommend for moving your vehicle overseas.

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The location of your car at the time of pickup plays a significant role in the overall shipping cost. If you live near a major port, such as Los Angeles, New York, or Miami, the shipping cost will generally be lower. However, if your vehicle is located far from a port, and a car carrier needs to travel hundreds of miles to pick it up, this will increase the total cost.

To save on costs, you can choose to bring your car directly to one of our warehouses or the port, reducing the need for long-distance car transport and lowering your shipping expenses.

For personalized advice on the most cost-effective pickup options, speak to your SDC relocation specialist.

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The destination of your car plays a major role in determining the shipping cost. In general, the further the distance, the higher the cost. However, certain destinations may benefit from reduced costs due to the laws of supply and demand. High-traffic routes, especially to popular destinations like Europe or Asia, may offer lower rates compared to less common routes.

Additionally, each country has its own customs regulations and fees, which can also impact the total cost. Your SDC relocation specialist will provide detailed information on the specific costs related to your destination.

For accurate pricing and to explore cost-saving options, it’s essential to get a customized quote based on your specific destination.

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The most effective way to reduce the cost of shipping a vehicle is to include it as part of your household goods shipment. By combining your car with your personal belongings in the same container, you can eliminate many additional steps and fees.

Most clients use a 20 ft. container for their household goods and personal effects. This size container is typically large enough to accommodate the belongings of a standard three-bedroom home. However, a standard vehicle takes up about 15 feet of the container’s length, leaving little space for other items. In this case, you might consider upgrading to a 40 ft. container, which offers 15% more cargo space, allowing you to ship your car and all your household belongings together.

Additionally, shipping from major ports like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami tends to be more cost-efficient than shipping from smaller or less frequently used ports.

For tailored advice on how to reduce shipping costs, consult your SDC relocation specialist.

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When shipping your car internationally, especially to European countries, there are additional costs beyond basic transportation fees. These may include:

• Inter-country transportation costs: If your car is shipped through multiple countries, additional fees may apply to move it across borders.
• Legal fees: These cover the required legal services to prepare your vehicle for export, such as clearing customs and preparing necessary documentation.
• Required documents: You will need to provide your car’s original title and license, along with a copy of your driver’s license. These documents will be returned to you before departure, as you’ll need them for customs clearance at your destination.
• Labor costs: Fees for the handling and transportation of your vehicle are included in your final shipping cost.

To get a complete and accurate estimate that includes all potential additional costs, it’s best to consult with your SDC relocation specialist.

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Many European countries have recently implemented high taxes on vehicles with high CO2 emissions. If you’re planning to relocate to countries like France or Germany, you may want to consider shipping a hybrid or low-emission vehicle to avoid these taxes.

While safety equipment compliance is generally not an issue for newer vehicles, keep in mind that many countries require that cars be between six months and five years old to be eligible for import.

Your SDC relocation specialist can provide you with detailed information on the regulations and taxes for CO2 emissions in your destination country to help you make the most cost-effective choice.

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In some countries, you are required to obtain a special import permit before shipping your vehicle. While this requirement is not common, it’s important to verify if your destination country requires one. Unfortunately, the process of securing this permit is something you will need to handle personally.

Your SDC relocation specialist can assist you in checking whether a special permit is necessary for your destination and provide guidance on how to proceed with the application.

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Marine insurance 

We strongly recommend purchasing marine insurance to protect your vehicle during transport across the open ocean. While your existing car insurance may not cover international shipping, SDC International Shipping offers a comprehensive marine insurance add-on for added peace of mind.

This insurance will safeguard your vehicle against potential risks while in transit, ensuring you are fully covered in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

Speak with your SDC relocation specialist to learn more about marine insurance options and how to add this protection to your shipping plan.

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Customs duty is a required fee when shipping a car internationally. The cost varies depending on your destination country—some countries charge lower customs fees, while others impose higher rates.

Typically, customs taxes are calculated as a percentage of your vehicle’s value. In addition to customs duty, you may encounter other fees such as sales tax or processing costs. These charges depend on the specific regulations of the country you’re relocating to.

Your SDC relocation specialist will provide a detailed breakdown of the customs fees you can expect, based on the port of your destination. We ensure you’re informed about all potential costs upfront.

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In many countries, the vehicle owner must be physically present when the car undergoes customs clearance and vehicle inspection. This is often required at the time of the inspection or customs review.

SDC International Shipping will notify you as soon as we know the customs clearance date for your vehicle. If you’re moving to a location far from the destination port, you may need to make arrangements to travel to the port when your car arrives to meet these requirements.

For more details on customs procedures and how to prepare for your car’s arrival, speak with your SDC relocation specialist.