Read the Department of State's Vietnam Country Specifics travel website to see if there are restrictions on shipping automobiles to the destination of your choice in Vietnam. Contact the American Consulate in Vietnam (24 hour telephone number: 011-84-4-3850-5000) to register your visit before you go. Register also with the Department of State's travel registration page. This step is necessary to provide assistance to you in case of emergency.
Choose the company you wish to ship the automobile overseas. Most companies offer two options for shipment: roll-on-roll-off and container. In the first choice, the car is driven onto a freighter and then secured to the floor for the passage. The car will be among other cars, but it is strapped down to ensure there isn't any jostling. Container shipping entails the car being driven into an individual container. It is secured and then hoisted onto a freighter, usually by means of a crane.
Pick the point of shipment and delivery. Consult a port map to choose the port for shipment and delivery. Find sample maps for the West Coast and Vietnam at World Port Source.
Choose an automobile shipping company; many of these sites have an option for you to receive a quoted price. This information can be used to compare each company economically; however, it is advisable that you research each company carefully for quality and legitimacy.
Place the order to coincide with your physical entry into Vietnam for pick-up. You'll have to place the order well in advance to ensure that the delivery will be on time. During the placement of the order, have your proof of insurance as well as your title and registration card ready; this information may be necessary for shipping purposes.
Write down the delivery date and print off the confirmation email, or any other information regarding shipping, as this information could be pertinent to receiving the automobile in Vietnam.
Obtain a passport if you don't already have one. Visit the Department of State website to find out how to apply. You will also need a Vietnamese Visa to gain entry to Vietnam; this must be obtained from the Vietnamese Consulate. You can find the closest Consulate by consulting the Vietnamese Consulate website (see Resources).
