Preparing Your Vehicle For International Car Shipping

Key Takeaways: -

• International car transport services are less expensive than buying a vehicle abroad.
• You may need to ship your car abroad because of extended holidays, international auto shows, or a job overseas.
• Preparing your vehicle for shipping and arrival at the destination will be necessary.
• Learn more about international car shipping to help you avoid making mistakes.

It doesn't need to be difficult to ship your car internationally. You can quickly move your classic, luxury, sports, classic, or pickup truck overseas with the correct information. Every year, thousands of people do it. Why not you?

Let's take you through how to prepare your car for shipping, the paperwork and requirements to fill out, and how to calculate the typical cost of international car shipping.

9 Steps to ship your car overseas

Whether you're on an extended vacation or taking your car to international auto shows, it doesn't matter. Knowing how to ship a vehicle abroad is essential. RCC Auto Transport recommends these eight steps to ship your car overseas safely.

1. Find auto-shipping companies

It is essential to choose a reliable shipping company. Check out the options that a Google search brings up. You can find exciting results by doing a quick Google search for "how do I ship a car overseas" or "international car shipping to the US."

These are the requirements for any shipping company that you are considering:

• Transporting your vehicle from Point A to Point B in a reasonable amount of time
• Prosper is licensed, bonded, and insured
• Work with reliable freight carriers who are insured and licensed

2. Compare international shipping companies

Compare your international car shippers after you have trimmed down your list. Compare the Better Business Bureau reports of different companies. Get quotes to find the best value company. Only work with a company that is familiar with vehicle transport requirements. Talk to the shipping company if you need to transport a car of unusual dimensions or shapes.

3. Collect your documents

There is much paperwork involved in international car shipping. You must, for example, provide export documents to the U.S. port-of-entry 72 hours before your vehicle is transported. These are some key documents that may apply to your situation.

• Photo ID
• Vehicle registration
• Proof that you are insured
• Bill Of Lading
• Notarized bill for sale
• Title certificate for the car and two copies
• A notarized and properly completed export power of attorney (POA).
• For car re-importation into the U.S., use EPA Form 3520-21 or HS-7
• Completed DOT forms to ensure safety compliance

You will need a letter from the lien holder stating the car model, year of production, and VIN to allow you to transport the vehicle overseas. Give yourself plenty of time to collect the documentation. Contact them in advance to find out what the point of entry expects from you. All paperwork should be prepared at least a month in advance.

4. Verify your car's insurance

Some auto transporters only offer partial coverage for freight. Check with your insurance company to determine if you have sea transport coverage. Ask if the vehicle's insurance covers driving overseas.

5. Prepare your car

A car can't be shipped with boxes inside. You must remove all essential documents, such as registration and insurance documentation. You can only leave items related to your vehicles, such as a spare tire or jumper cable. You should check with the shipping company to find out how much fuel they allow. Many auto-shipping companies require that fuel tanks are no more than one-quarter full.

6. Please take photos of your car to document its condition

Do you need to move an older car that has suffered damage? Take photos of any scratches, dents, or chipped paint. Photograph the exterior and interior of your vehicle. Before you hand the car over to the shipping company, take note of the vehicle's current mileage. Photos can be used to confirm the vehicle's condition when it is picked up abroad. You can use pictures to support insurance claims against the responsible party if the car is damaged in shipping.

7. Service and wash your car

It's easy for people to forget that cars need some care when they move. It needs to be serviced and maintained. Customers at the border may inspect your vehicle for any pests, debris, or illegal items. Before your car can enter the port of entry, you should take it to an auto detailed for a wash and vacuum. You will need to disarm the alarm and copy your car keys.

8. Complete the legal paperwork

After cleaning your car, you can complete the paperwork necessary to ship a vehicle abroad. Check the T&Cs and confirm the destination. An official from the shipping company will assist you with these steps. Sign the bill and keep a copy if you are satisfied.

9. What is the international shipping cost for a car?

Most people who ship a car overseas worry about international shipping costs and safety. While looking for a shipper who offers value, you also want reliability. Here are the costs of international auto shipping.

What are the factors that determine international shipping costs?

These factors can have an impact on car shipping costs.

• Type of vehicle: It's a simple decision. Shipping more extensive, heavier vehicles is more expensive than shipping smaller ones.
• Distance from port: Shipping will be cheaper if you live near a major port like New York or Miami. If you cannot transport your vehicle, the local transporter or international shipper will still take it to the port.
• Import taxes: Research taxes related to shipping to another country. This can be a small charge or a large sum.
• Pick-up location: It is cheaper to pick the car up from the port than to deliver it to your home. The most popular high-traffic routes are less expensive than those less traveled. The cost of a long journey is higher.
• Shipping method: Standard shipping usually takes 3 to 12 weeks. However, expedited shipping can be faster but more expensive. The order management process begins once a shipping order has been placed.
• Types of containers: Shipping costs depend on choosing a dedicated or shared container. Because they include other vehicles, shared containers are more affordable. The price of individual containers can be twice as high as those of shared containers.

Trusted shipping services can help you ship your car to Hawaii or Alaska.

Learn how to send your car abroad safely and economically. Although shipping a car is more expensive than buying a brand new car at your destination, it will still be cheaper than purchasing a used car. Prepare the paperwork, prepare the vehicle, and make sure you check with the Port of Entry for any car shipping requirements. Are you moving to Hawaii or Alaska from the United States? Your SUV, sedan, or truck, as well as motorcycle, should not be left behind. RCC Auto Transport can move your vehicle to the destination for a fraction of what it would cost to buy a new car. We are an auto shipping company that has extensive experience in moving cars. We can connect you with top carriers for overseas shipping to ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination safely. Contact us to book a consultation today.