Shipping a car overseas may sound daunting, but it’s surprisingly easy with the correct planning. It can also be remarkably affordable.
Cost
Regarding international car shipping, the cost can vary quite a bit. Generally, there are two major types of international auto transport: ocean and air freight. The former is more economical, but it takes longer. The latter is faster, but it can be more expensive.
Compare prices from many suppliers before selecting an international car transportation business like RCG Logistics. You can be confident that you will receive the finest deal available. Include any other costs related to your shipment, as well. These include destination port charges, insurance, and customs clearance fees. Additionally, if you need to ship household goods with your vehicle, opt for shared container shipping instead of individual containers.
Roll-on, roll-off shipping (or Ro-Ro) is the most economical option for ocean transport. It involves driving your car onto a sizeable car-carrier ship, where it will be secured for transport and then driven off when the boat arrives at its destination. However, this method can be more risky than other options, as your vehicle will be sitting on an open deck and could be bumped or rained on.
Another factor that can affect the cost of international car shipping is the size and weight of your vehicle. Typically, larger vehicles will have to pay higher rates than smaller ones. Additionally, some countries have strict specifications that must be met to export cars there legally.
Time
Generally, shipping cars abroad takes longer than domestic auto transport. It is because fewer auto transport companies provide services internationally and because there are more procedures in the shipping process, like international customs clearance.
International car transport also depends on the method of transportation and the destination port. The fastest option is air freight, but it’s also the most expensive. Air auto transport is ideal for anyone who needs their vehicle shipped overseas in a hurry (in days by plane rather than weeks or months by ship) or if the car is valuable or one-of-a-kind (antique, vintage, luxury).
The other fast shipping method is RoRo (roll on, roll off). With this service, your car will be loaded onto the transport vessel with other vehicles, secured in place, then rolled off at its final destination. The downside is that this type of shipping does not allow you to ship personal items with your vehicle, so you’ll need to make other arrangements.
Regardless of the method of transportation, you will need to allow ample time to complete your international car shipping process. If you have a specific timeline, it’s best to contact a global shipping company and ask them for a quote. You must factor in import/export fees at the destination port and the costs related to the actual transportation.
Safety
It’s not uncommon for car owners to feel wary about shipping their cars. Whether you’re moving abroad, selling your vintage automobile, or taking it to international auto shows, it’s critical to have faith that your vehicle will reach its destination safely and securely. It’s good to know that many trustworthy auto shipping businesses adhere to strict guidelines to ensure your automobile reaches its destination in the same state as when it set off.
One way to ensure your car’s safety during shipping is to choose an enclosed transport method. On the other hand, open transport exposes your vehicle to elements—road debris, dirt, dust, and weather—during the shipment duration. You can also share your shipping container with other cars for added security.
You should also remove personal possessions from your car before shipping it. It includes bike racks, rooftop boxes, hood ornaments, and blind-spot mirrors. They will not only add to the weight of your car and cause damage during transportation, but they may also be subject to theft.
Obtaining several quotations is also advised before selecting a shipping provider. It can help you negotiate a better price and identify early red flags. For example, a company that wants to charge you two or three times more than another car shipping service is probably not worth your business.
Legality
There are a few different ways to ship your car overseas. The most popular option is “roll on roll off” or RoRo shipping, where your vehicle will be rolled onto and off a cargo ship’s deck with other cars. It is typically cheaper than container shipping but does leave your vehicle more vulnerable to damage from shifting cargo.
Other methods include loading your car into a container, which can be shared or dedicated. This method can take longer than RoRo shipping but is generally safer and more secure. When choosing a shipper for your international transport, it’s essential to research them thoroughly. Checking a shipper’s profile will provide you with their safety records, customer-rated feedback, and transportation history. Also, look into what they offer regarding international shipping and how much they charge.
Finally, be sure you understand your destination country’s import and export laws, as these can change without notice. For example, some countries do not allow cars above a certain age to be imported, while others may require you to pay a tariff, tax, or duty on your vehicle based on its value or engine size. Consult an expert vehicle transporter who can walk you through the procedure if you still need clarification about what to do.
