Everything You Should Know about International Automobile Shipping!

Everything You Should Know about International Automobile Shipping!

Transporting vehicles overseas does not have to be overly complicated. Clients looking to transport automobiles/cars/vehicles to a port overseas can benefit from a reliable and experienced international shipping company like K International Transport! However, before reaching out to a freight forwarder, there are a few things you should know about the process.

Choosing How to Ship Your Vehicle Overseas

FIRST, you will have to decide whether to transport your automobile(s) via roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) or container shipping.

When deciding between container or RO/RO service for transporting vehicles, there are several things you should consider. First, the make, model, year, and running status of the vehicle being shipped can favor one method over the other. Because RO/RO requires the automobile to be driven onto the ship, non-running cars and many vintage automobiles do not qualify for this service. However, RO/RO shipping is often less expensive and can simplify loading and unloading, so clients can usually benefit by opting for RO/RO services if their vehicle allows.

Another consideration for clients is whether they are looking to ship personal effects along with their vehicle. If so, shipping via a 20ft or 40ft shared or exclusive container is the option for them, as RO/RO does not allow clients to transport any personal effects. Lastly, shipping companies sometimes have good deals with international ports depending on the method used, so speaking with your freight forwarder about your options can help you benefit from an affordable and practical shipment.

 

vehicles on cargo ship
vehicles on cargo ship. Photo by Tobias Tullius @tobiastu

Determining Your Automobile’s International Shipping Time

SECOND, shipping time depends on several factors.

Not only is the distance from port to port important for determining the shipping time, but there are additional factors that may lengthen the time it takes for the automobile to arrive at the destination port. First, consider environmental factors, such as weather events and storms that might delay the shipment. There may also be delays at the port of origin or the destination port, issues with customs, and delays with loading and unloading the vehicle.

However, cargo ships are typically fast and can travel up to approximately 650 kilometers per day. With that in mind, an automobile shipped from the east coast of the United States can arrive in Western Europe in approximately one month. For estimates to a specific port of origin and a destination port, clients can reach out to their international shipping company.

The process before the actual shipment of the automobile can take as little as one day to finalize. The client must submit the required documentation, including identification, a power of attorney form, and the car’s original title, as well as payment in full, for the shipment to be scheduled. Once that is completed, the automobile can be on its way overseas.

Understanding Overseas Car Shipping Regulations

THIRD, certain regulations are to be expected.

Some countries have rules that limit the types of cargo that can be imported, and they can be especially strict regarding automobiles. The regulations can dictate the maximum age of the automobile and the make or model of the vehicle. Additionally, tariffs can be placed depending on various factors; sometimes the value of the vehicle is considered and sometimes the size of the engine. A common example of shipping difficulties that can arise is with the import of automobiles in the United States because of the country’s strict laws and regulations regarding which vehicles can be used and driven in the States.

It is important to always contact local customs or import agents at the country of final destination before shipment, as they will be able to provide more information on restrictions, requirements, duties, taxes, and more.

Determining Specialty Considerations for Antique, Valuable, and Salvage Vehicles

FOURTH, international shipping companies can offer services that are specific to salvage, used, and antique vehicles.

Many international shipping companies can advise clients on the most practical and affordable methods for transporting various types of vehicles that can minimize the tariffs the client will have to pay and the overall cost of the shipment. For automobiles that are valuable, antique or vintage, or have sentimental value, K International can offer insurance and container shipping services to minimize the risk of environmental damage and protect against possible harm to the vehicle at the ports or on the cargo ship. In regard to salvage vehicles, freight forwarders can advise clients on the cheapest way to transport parts in order to get a bigger return in the destination country. K International can speak to clients regarding their specific vehicles and their needs.

 

shallow focus photography of orange Volkswagen Beetle
shallow focus photography of orange Volkswagen Beetle. Photo by Dan Gold @danielcgold

Choosing Affordable International Vehicle Shipping Services

FIFTH, you can find the cheapest, fastest, and most reliable overseas car transport services with K International Transport.

When transporting valuable cargo, like an automobile overseas, clients should do appropriate research to ensure that their cargo is in the right hands. Luckily, with an experienced freight forwarding company and logistics company like K International Transport, clients will get the most affordable, practical, and fast shipments to virtually every port in the world, but will also receive advice and counseling in regard to their specific vehicles and desired shipping schedules. K International will also take care of customs clearance regulations and export formalities so that clients can have a hassle-free shipping experience to ports in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America.

For more information about how K International Transport can help you transport your automobiles/cars/vehicles overseas quickly and economically with international automobile shipping services, call us at 212-267-6400, email us at inquiries@kinternational.com, or reach out to us on Skype at kinternationalny. For an international shipping quote, visit our rate request page today.