How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car Overseas? A Guide

When you’re sending your car to another country, it’s important to select the right shipping method and understand the associated costs. You’ll also want to make sure your vehicle arrives safely and meets all legal requirements at its destination. Knowing the pros and cons of different shipping options can help you save time and money.

Whether you’re moving abroad or selling your car to someone overseas, understanding how international car shipping works can make the whole process smoother and less stressful.

What You’ll Learn

In this guide, we will answer:

• How to determine international car shipping cost?

• What factors affect international auto shipping?

• What are the steps involved in overseas car shipping?

Overview

The cost of shipping a car overseas depends on the distance, vehicle type, shipping method, and destination fees. Knowing these factors helps ensure a smooth and budget-friendly transport experience. Factors Determining Shipping Cost Final pricing is based on port distance, vehicle size, and condition, and the shipping method used. Season, port fees, and insurance can also raise or lower the total cost. Types of Shipping Methods Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Cheapest for running vehicles. Container Shipping: More protection; can carry personal items. Air Freight: Fastest but most expensive. Documents Needed You’ll need your original title, bill of sale, photo ID, and possibly a lienholder letter or power of attorney. Destination countries may require additional paperwork. Customs Duty & Import Taxes Import charges include customs duty, VAT or GST, and local port fees. These vary by country and are calculated on the vehicle’s total declared value. Insurance & Protection Marine cargo insurance is crucial for maritime transportation. All-Risk: Covers most damages or theft. Total-Loss Only: Covers total destruction. Carrier’s Liability: Minimal coverage. Choosing a Shipping Company Pick a licensed forwarder with solid reviews, broad port access, and multiple shipping options (RoRo and container). Step-by-Step Process Book a domestic pickup to a U.S. port. Submit the required documents to the forwarder. The vehicle sails via RoRo, container, or air. Pay import duties, clear customs, and collect your car abroad.

What is International Car Shipping?

International car shipping refers to the process of relocating a vehicle from one country to another. It’s more than just crossing a border, as the process involves several important steps and regulations.

Here’s what it usually includes:

• Transport method: Most cars are shipped by ocean freight, but air transport can be used for expensive or time-sensitive vehicles.

• Customs regulations: Each country has its own import and export laws, and your shipment must comply with these regulations.

• Shipping logistics: You’ll need to arrange pickup, delivery, and all the right paperwork to avoid delays.

• Safety requirements: Cars must be appropriately secured during shipping to prevent damage.

How Much To Transport A Car To Another Country?

When determining how much to transport a car to another country, shippers consider several variables that dictate the final price. Knowing these factors will help you get an accurate international vehicle shipping price.

• Distance & Trade Lane: The primary cost is the port-to-port distance. High-volume trade lanes (like the U.S. East Coast to Europe) typically offer lower rates and more frequent sailings than niche routes.

• Vehicle Size/Weight & Operability: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, and specialized models (e.g., EVs that require specific battery handling), are more expensive. Non-running or inoperable vehicles require specialized handling equipment, which significantly increases both port and ocean freight fees.

• Method (RORO vs Container Shipping for Car): This is the most significant decision. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) is a volume-based method and is usually the most cost-effective way to ship a car overseas, while a container (shared or sole-use) offers higher protection but at a higher cost.

• Seasonality & Lead Time: Peak shipping seasons (e.g., summer) often see higher demand and prices. Booking with sufficient lead time (4-6 weeks) can help secure better rates.

• Port, Terminal, and Handling Fees: These are mandatory charges applicable to both export and import operations, covering loading, unloading, security, and document processing. They can vary widely by port.

• Insurance & Destination Charges: Marine insurance is a mandatory requirement, and destination charges encompass customs processing and final delivery (if requested).

Types of International Car Shipping Methods

When shipping your car overseas, you can choose from several methods:

1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo)

This method is designed for vehicles that can be driven onto and off a ship. Cars, trucks, and other wheeled equipment are loaded onto special vessels that resemble multi-level parking garages. RoRo shipping is a simple and cost-effective option, but it offers limited protection from the elements.

2. Container Shipping

Your car is placed inside a secure container, which can also hold personal items or multiple vehicles. It’s safer and more private than RoRo, though usually more expensive. Choosing a shared container can lower costs, but it may result in longer shipping times.

3. Air Freight

Shipping by air is the fastest and most reliable method, ideal for luxury, high-value, or time-sensitive vehicles. But it’s also the most expensive option.

Comparison Of Methods For Shipping Cars Internationally

Here is a table for a side-by-side comparison of the various methods for transporting a car overseas.

Documents Needed for International Car Shipping

Proper documentation is non-negotiable for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) export clearance. Prepare these documents well in advance:

Essential U.S. Export Documents:

• Original Vehicle Title: The clean, clear Original Title is mandatory (no copies).

• Bill of Sale: Proving ownership/value.

• Photo ID/Passport/EIN: For the registered exporter.

• Lienholder Authorization: If the vehicle is financed or leased, you must have a notarized letter from the lienholder granting permission for export.

• Power of Attorney: This may be necessary if the shipper (you) is not physically present at the port of handover.

• Bill of Lading (BOL): Created by the forwarder, this document serves as both your receipt and contract for shipping.

• Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED): Filed electronically by the forwarder.

Destination-Specific Paperwork

Every country has unique requirements (local safety inspections, emissions certificates, special import forms). Your overseas agent must advise you on the documents needed for international car shipping before the car leaves the U.S.

Customs Duty & Import Taxes (Know Before You Go)

The import process in the destination country is where costs can skyrocket unexpectedly. The general structure of import costs includes duties, VAT/GST, and port charges.

What Do These Include?

• Customs Duty: A percentage charged on the vehicle's customs value (usually purchase price + shipping cost).

• VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax): A national sales tax levied on the total value (vehicle + duty). This is often the highest single cost.

• Local Port Charges: Terminal fees, inspection fees, and customs processing charges.

Tips to Estimate Taxes Early

Get the customs value calculation method from your forwarder and the latest duty/VAT rates from the destination country’s finance/tax authority to model your full tax liability.

Insurance & Protection Options

Marine cargo insurance is not a luxury, but a necessity. Your car is exposed to unique risks at sea and during port handling.

Marine Cargo Insurance Types

• All-Risk Coverage: The highest level of protection, covering physical damage, theft, and total loss (recommended for high-value or unique vehicles).

• Total-Loss Only (TLO): Covers the vehicle only if it is completely lost, like the vessel sinks or catches fire.

• Carrier's Liability: The carrier's default coverage is minimal and insufficient.

How Costs Are Affected

The premium for marine insurance for shipping a classic car or any vehicle is based on:

1. Declared Value: The higher the value, the higher the premium.

2. Deductible: The amount you pay before the insurance kicks in.

3. Shipping Method: Insurance for a vehicle in an enclosed container is often slightly cheaper than for RoRo.

Special Notes for Classics & Exotics

Always have a detailed third-party Condition Report and extensive photos taken before the car is moved to the port. This documentation is critical for any claims process.

How to Choose the Best International Car Shipping Companies in 2025?

Choosing the right international forwarder is crucial for a stress-free shipment. Here’s a quick checklist of what to look for:

• 

  Licensing: Ensure they are licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).

• 

  Port Coverage: Do they frequently service your specific U.S. export and foreign import ports?

• 

  Method Breadth: Do they offer both RoRo and container services?

• 

  Reviews & Claims Handling: Research recent customer feedback regarding their responsiveness and claims process.

Step-by-Step: From Your Driveway to the Destination Port

1. Book Domestic Pickup to the U.S. Port of Export: You book the domestic leg with us to move your vehicle from your home address safely to the staging area near your chosen U.S. port (e.g., Newark, Los Angeles, Jacksonville).

2. Handover to Your Chosen International Forwarder: At the port, you or your forwarder will complete U.S. export documents, including the Title and Bill of Lading, and stage the vehicle.

3. Vessel Booking & Sailing: The forwarder books your space (RoRo, container, or air) and oversees the loading/departure.

4. Arrival, Customs Clearance, Duties/Taxes, and Final Pickup/Delivery: The car arrives. The foreign customs agent handles inspection, and you pay all destination duties and taxes before the vehicle is released for final pickup or delivery.

Final Thoughts: Shipping a Car Overseas Made Simple

Shipping a vehicle overseas doesn’t have to be intimidating. Anyone with a solid understanding of the international car shipping process can do it seamlessly.  This guide provides essential tips and information to help you successfully ship your car internationally. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another country?

The most cost-effective way to ship a car internationally is through Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping, particularly when opting for a shared container for additional savings.

What are the taxes and duties involved in shipping a car overseas?

Taxes and duties include customs duties, import taxes (like VAT), and port charges, which vary by destination and can significantly increase the total shipping cost.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Europe?

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping is typically the most cost-effective method for transporting an operable vehicle to a major European port.

Is RoRo cheaper than a container?

Yes, RoRo is cheaper than both shared and sole-use container shipping because it is priced by volume/deck space, not a container box rate.

Do I need marine insurance for a classic car?

Yes. Marine insurance for shipping a classic car is highly recommended, and you should opt for All-Risk coverage based on the car's high agreed-upon appraised value.

Disclaimer:

AmeriFreight Auto Transport does not provide international or overseas car shipping services. The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. This guide is intended to help readers understand how international car shipping works and the factors that affect the cost. For assistance with domestic auto transport within the United States, please contact AmeriFreight Auto Transport directly.