International car shipping is costlier and more complicated than shipping a car in the U.S., but with research and solid lead time, you can find good rates.
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If you need your car because you’re making a big move overseas (whether temporary or permanent), you’ll need to know the ins and outs of international car shipping – including the best ways to save money on it. From auto transport brokers, to road carriers, to freight companies and cargo ships, there’s a lot to learn.
In this article, we’ll cover what you need to know about shipping your car to another country overseas, what it typically costs, and what the most common and cost-effective shipping methods are. From our industry-wide review of the best car shipping companies, we’ve also identified two top providers to help you find the best rates for international car shipping.
Featured Car Shipping Companies
We reviewed the industry’s top car shipping providers. Here are our featured picks:
Crash Course:
- Roll-on/roll-off shipping is the cheapest and easiest way to ship internationally.
- International car shipping can cost anywhere from $700 to $5,000.
- An overseas auto transport usually takes at least 30 days to complete.
How Does International Car Shipping Work?
Shipping a car internationally is a bit more complicated than domestic auto transport. Not every car shipping company has international shipping options, so the first step – finding a company that can take care of your needs – is already a bit more difficult. Car shipping costs are also typically much higher for international or overseas vehicle transport compared to moving within the U.S.
What Are Your Company Options?
Often, shipping a car overseas requires a two-company process: the auto transport broker and a separate cargo or freight shipping company. Luckily, the broker is in charge of finding the cargo shipping company. When a broker offers international car shipping, this usually means it will find a carrier (truck driver) to load your car onto a trailer and drive it to a sea port. The car will then be loaded onto a cargo ship run by another company (an overseas carrier that the broker will also find or regularly does business with).
If you live near a sea port, you may be able to directly ship through a cargo/freight shipping company like Schumacher Cargo Logistics. If you live relatively far away, say in Chicago, for example, and you want to ship your car to France, you may save money (and definitely time) by going through an auto transport broker that will secure the driver and the overseas carrier for you.
How Do You Ship a Car Overseas?
To help you accomplish your international vehicle shipping needs, we’ve outlined a few crucial steps, some of which are similar to our tips for how to ship a car to another state or city.
- Select an International Car Shipping Company
Check the website of a car shipper you’re interested in to see if the company provides international shipping services. If it’s not clear online, it’s best to contact a company representative to ask.
To get the best rates on international auto shipping, compare quotes from several different legitimate companies such as Montway Auto Transport, SGT Auto Transport, or uShip. Remember that if you live in a coastal state and relatively close to a port, you may benefit just by going to a freight company directly.
- Book Your Shipment Online
When choosing the right shipping company, first look at rates. Many auto transport companies or brokers provide free online shipping cost calculators.
You should also check reviews to see how previous clients rate the company’s customer service. The most reputable transport companies have many years of experience shipping cars overseas. To book, you may be able to complete forms and payment online or you may call the company to confirm your estimate and details.
- Prepare Your Car
When preparing to ship your car internationally, you’ll need to gather a number of important documents. These include your driver’s license and passport as well as the vehicle’s title and registration. You should also make an extra set of keys, remove all personal items from the vehicle, and make sure to have no more than a quarter tank of gas.
- Drop Off Your Vehicle
When it’s time to ship your vehicle, drive to the shipping terminal if you’ve elected to drop your vehicle off with the carrier. If you’re using door-to-door transport, be ready to meet the truck driver at your house or chosen pick-up location. You and the hauler will inspect your vehicle for any pre-existing damage and you’ll sign a bill of lading – which can be used to file claims with the auto transport company if the car becomes damaged during transport. After both of you sign, the carrier will load the vehicle and take it away.
- Pick Up the Car at Its Shipping Destination
Once your car reaches its final destination, you’ll inspect it again to check for any damage incurred during the shipping process. Next, you’ll sign the bill of lading again – a receipt for cargo. With the car in your possession, you may be expected to proceed through customs and pay relevant fees or taxes. If you’re importing your vehicle to a new country, you may want to pay an agent to help you get through the process efficiently.
What You Need for International Vehicle Shipments
For overseas car shipping, you’ll need the following materials on hand:
- Personal information: At least two forms of government-issued identification, usually a driver’s license and a passport
- Vehicle information: Documents such as the car’s original title and registration that show the vehicle year, make, model, vehicle identification number (VIN), and estimated value
- Bill of sale: If you recently purchased the vehicle as a new car
- Shipper and consignee information: Contact information for the company that shipped your vehicle and for the individual or agent receiving it at the final destination
- Notarized lien authorization: A notarized letter from your auto lender or lessor stating knowledge of the shipment
- An extra set of keys: A set for the car carrier to use during the shipment
These are all standard requirements for international vehicle shipping, but the hauler you use may ask for additional information. For example, some ports in Florida require clearing agents to hold Power of Attorney to act on or clear documents on your behalf. Be sure to ask your car transport company exactly what you need to provide to ensure your vehicle makes it through the final port of entry.
Types of International Car Shipping
There are three main methods for shipping your car overseas. Two methods involve using a freight or cargo ship to transport your vehicle, while the third involves shipping via aircraft. We’ll look at each method below.
Roll-On/Roll-Off Shipping
Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping is typically the cheapest international car shipping method. Your car is driven onto the deck or into the cargo hold of a freight vessel and secured in place with ratchet straps and clamps. There are risks involved with RoRo shipping, however. Like land-based open auto transport, your vehicle is exposed to the elements, posing a risk of damage from inclement weather.
Enclosed Shipping Containers
If you want your car to be more protected when shipping internationally, you can opt for enclosed container shipping. Similar to enclosed auto shipping on land, your car will be in a metal container for the duration of the overseas transport, shielding it from any weather hazards. If you want the added security of enclosed transport but don’t want to stress your budget, you can select a shared container to lower your rate. Shipping your car in a shared container may add extra time to the transport.
Air Freight
Shipping your vehicle via freight aircraft is by far the most expensive international car transport method, but it’s also the fastest. If you have a tight timeline and a large budget, air freight might be an attractive option. It’s most commonly used to transport luxury vehicles and classic cars overseas.
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How Much Does International Car Shipping Cost?
Most experts say an international shipment can cost anywhere between $700 and $5,000. You can expect to pay more if you’re shipping a large vehicle like an SUV or pickup truck.
The cost to ship a car overseas varies, driven by many factors including:
- Distance to the final destination or port
- Import duties and taxes in the destination country
- International car shipping insurance
- Vehicle type, size, and weight
- The shipping company you use
- Shipping route frequency and popularity
