Moving abroad can be exciting, but there are so many decisions to make! One of those decisions may be whether to ship a car internationally. If you’re considering taking your vehicle with you when moving to another country, shipping it internationally can be a viable option. However, like any decision, there are pros and cons to consider. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of shipping a car internationally when moving abroad to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Shipping A Car Internationally

1. Familiarity: If you’ve had your car for some time and have been driving it for a long time, you might be a little attached to it. Shipping it internationally can help you maintain a sense of familiarity in a new country. You’ll be able to travel in your trusted vehicle, which can provide comfort and convenience as you navigate this new adventure.
2. Cost-effective for luxury or specialty vehicles: If you own a specialty or luxury vehicle that may be expensive or difficult to replace or find in your destination country, shipping it internationally can be cost-effective compared to buying a similar vehicle abroad. It can also save you the hassle of finding a buyer for your specialty vehicle in your home country and having to purchase a new one abroad.
3. Customizations: If your car has been customized with special features or after market modifications, shipping it internationally can allow you to keep those unique features that you may not find in your destination country. This can be a significant advantage for car enthusiasts or individuals with specific vehicle requirements.
4. Convenience for long-term stays: If you’re planning to stay in your destination country for an extended period, shipping your car internationally can provide you with a convenient mode of transportation. It eliminates the need to rely solely on public transportation or rent a car for an extended period, which can be costly.
5. Sentimental value: For some people, their car holds sentimental value, and shipping it internationally allows them to keep that emotional connection with their vehicle. It can be a meaningful way to take a piece of home with you when moving abroad.

Cons of Shipping A Car Internationally

1. Cost: Shipping a car internationally can be expensive, and the total cost will depend on various factors such as the destination country, distance, type of vehicle, and shipping method. Customs duties, taxes, insurance, and additional fees can add up, making it a significant expense.
2. Logistics and paperwork: International car shipping involves complex logistics and paperwork, including customs regulations, permits, duties, and taxes. Navigating through these requirements can be time-consuming and stressful, and any mistakes or delays can further add to the overall process.
3. Potential damages: Shipping a car internationally involves handling and transport, which can pose a risk of damages to your vehicle. Although shipping companies take precautions, accidents or damages can occur during transit, and resolving any issues can be challenging and time-consuming.
4. Local regulations and standards: Each country has its own regulations and standards for importing vehicles, such as emissions and safety standards. Your car may require modifications or certifications to comply with local regulations, which can be costly and time-consuming.
5. Limited use: If you’re moving to a country with efficient public transportation or where driving may not be necessary, your car may have limited use. It may sit idle for long periods, resulting in additional costs for storage, maintenance, and insurance.

Steps to Shipping A Car Internationally

If you do decide take your car with you, here are some steps to follow.

Step 1: Research and Choose a Reliable Auto Shipping Company

The first step in shipping a car internationally is to research and choose a reputable auto shipping company. Look for companies that specialize in international car shipping and have a proven track record of handling such shipments. Read reviews, compare prices, and ask for recommendations from friends, family, or expat communities. Look for companies that are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have experience in shipping cars to the destination country.

Step 2: Get a Quote and Plan Your Budget

Once you’ve chosen a shipping company, request a quote for shipping your car internationally. The cost of shipping a car can vary depending on various factors such as the destination country, distance, type of vehicle, and shipping method (e.g., container shipping, roll-on/roll-off, etc.). Make sure to get a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved, including customs duties, taxes, insurance, and any additional fees. Plan your budget accordingly, and consider getting multiple quotes from different shipping companies to compare and choose the most cost-effective option. If you are shipping from the United States, companies like Schumacher Cargo, CFR Shipping, and many others.

Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping

Preparing your vehicle for international shipping is crucial to ensure it arrives safely at the destination. Follow these steps:

1. Clean your car thoroughly, inside and out, to comply with customs regulations and avoid any delays.
2. Remove all personal belongings from your car, including any loose items, aftermarket accessories, and valuables.
3. Disable any alarms or anti-theft devices to avoid triggering them during shipping.
4. Take pictures of your car’s condition from all angles to document its condition before shipping.
5. Check for any existing damages and make a note of them in writing.
6. Ensure that your vehicle is in good running condition and has enough fuel to be driven on and off the transport vessel.
7. Keep all the necessary documents handy, including your car’s title, registration, and insurance, as well as your passport, driver’s license, and other relevant identification.

Step 4: Understand Customs Regulations and Requirements

Each country has its own customs regulations and requirements for importing a vehicle, so it’s crucial to research and understand them before shipping your car internationally. Some common requirements may include:

1. Import permits: Some countries require an import permit or authorization to bring a vehicle into the country. Make sure to obtain the necessary permits and comply with all the documentation requirements.
2. Duties and taxes: Many countries impose customs duties and taxes on imported vehicles, which can vary significantly depending on the vehicle’s value, age, and type. Research the applicable duties and taxes in your destination country and be prepared to pay them.
3. Emissions and safety standards: Some countries have strict emissions and safety standards for imported vehicles. Make sure your vehicle meets the required standards or obtain any necessary modifications or certifications before shipping.
4. Vehicle registration and insurance: Research the process for registering and insuring your vehicle in the destination country. Some countries may require you to register your vehicle within a certain period and obtain local insurance.

Step 5: Choose a Shipping Method

There are several shipping methods available for international car shipping, and the choice depends on your budget, destination, and specific needs. The most common methods are:

1. Shared Container Shipping: If you want to save some cash, you could share a container with someone else. Just be aware that shared container car shipping may take more time due to waiting for the ocean container to be filled.
2. Private Container: If you will be shipping your household goods as well as your vehicle it may make sense for you to have your own private container. This allows you to have a private container to fill at your own time, and typically means a faster transit time in getting your car to Europe versus waiting for others in a shared container. This will be the most expensive way of shipping a car to Europe.
3. Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo shipping): The least expensive of the options, but also the least secure way to ship a car internationally. In the roll-on roll-off process, the car is physically driven onto the ship and physically driven off the ship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping your car internationally when moving abroad has its pros and cons. It can provide familiarity, cost-effective options for luxury or specialty vehicles, customization, and convenience for long-term stays. However, it also comes with costs, logistics challenges, potential damages, and compliance with local regulations. Before making a decision, consider your specific situation, budget, and transportation needs in your destination country. Research and choose a reliable shipping company, understand customs regulations, and weigh the advantages and disadvantages. For us, it made more sense to sell our vehicle in the United States prior to moving to Spain. We will buy vehicles there.