Purchase the vehicle and get two extra copies of the bill of sale. You will need to have these extra copies to go with your shipping paperwork. If you are buying from a dealership, choose one that is close to the port you want to ship from. You should be able to get them to drive your car to the port for you, which will save you on costs.
Locate an international car shipping company in the U.S. The MoveCars.com website (see Resources) has a directory of shipping companies that handle overseas car shipping. Click on each company name to go to its website.
Determine which shipping method you prefer. You can choose from container shipping or roll on roll off (RORO). Container shipping is when the car is secured in a large container that is lifted onto the ship. Personal items can be left in these vehicles. RORO shipping is the cheaper method and involves having the car driven onto the ship and secured inside and then driven off at the destination port. No personal items are allowed in RORO cars.
Get quotes from shipping companies that you are interested in using. Shipping companies typically have quote request forms on their websites. You will need to enter the make and model of your car, where it is shipping from and to, and your preferred shipping method. Things such as having the shipping company pick up the car instead of you driving it to the port can result in additional charges. Look for a company that includes the cost of customs fees in their quote. Otherwise you will have to pay these separately.
Request proof of insurance and references from the shipping company. The shipping company should have insurance that covers your vehicle from theft or damage while it is in their possession. The insurance may not cover the vehicle while it is at sea, and you may have to purchase marine insurance. The shipping company should be able to recommend an agency for you. Ask the company if they have agents at the destination port who can help you with duties and forms once you arrive at the port to get your vehicle. Major shipping companies usually have an agent at the destination port for this purpose. If the company you want to use does not, ask if they can assist you in hiring an agent.
Pay for your shipping to secure your booking. You will have to pay for the shipping upfront and give the shipping company two copies of your bill of sale or other proof of ownership and two copies of your passport and drivers license. Keep in mind that you will also have to pay taxes and duties at the destination port. You will be given a window of 3 to 5 days for when the car will leave the port. If you are having a dealer take the vehicle to the port, you will need to give their contact information to the shipping company. Once the car is on the ship, the shipping company can give you the date of arrival at the destination port. In 2009, the average cost to ship a car overseas ranged from $2000 to $5000, depending on the destination.
