How to Ship Your Car Internationally

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At some point in your life, there could come a time when you need to ship a car internationally. For example, perhaps you’re going out of the country to continue your education and don’t want to sell your ride. Or maybe you accept a position with a company, have to move elsewhere, and wish to take your vehicle with you. 

Regardless of why you need a car relocated internationally, you’ll need to know what your car shipping options are if that time arises. Below are some important things you need to know about shipping a car across countries.

Roll-On/Roll-Off Shipping

If you wish to move a vehicle internationally, RORO or Roll-On/Roll-Off shipping might be a good choice. This service is often deemed one of the fastest and most economical ways to transport a car. 

With this type of shipping, there is basically a parking lot inside the ship’s hull. The vehicles are parked there, taken to the receiving port, and driven off the boat. Companies can ferry motorcycles, sedans, SUVs, and more in this manner. 

Automotive Shipping Containers

Some people prefer to use companies that ship their cars via automotive shipping containers. That is because the receptacles provide their babies with more protection from the elements than RORO shipping. Your vehicle may be put in a metal box with containerized transport by itself. But it could also share a large container with other cars.

If you’re all about saving money, and you don’t need the ride quickly, a shared container might be a perfect fit. You’ll share the cost of the receptacle, but your shipment could get delayed as it waits on other clients. If you need the vehicle delivered quickly, and don’t mind paying a little more, consider an individual container.

Air Freight Shipping

Did you know that air freight shipping is a top-of-the-line option for shipping a car internationally? Unfortunately, this option is also excessively expensive and not exactly eco-friendly. Therefore, many companies don’t even offer it. Sometimes, the cost can even be more than the car’s value.

So, unless you own a classic car or an exotic vehicle, air freight shipping may not be worth the price. It depends on you, your finances, and other factors, but cargo freight is a budget-friendly alternative. 

Tractor-Trailer Transport

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When most people think about moving internationally, images of traveling across oceans probably pop into their minds. But what if a consumer is in Canada and needs to have his car relocated to Mexico, Belize, or Guatemala? 

It could make sense for such consumers to find a company to move the vehicle to a new location on the back of a tractor-trailer. Typical quotes for such a service are $734 to transport a car 520 miles or $1,307 for a 1,489-mile trip. However, prices can vary because of factors like the cost of fuel, vehicle size, and the time of year. 

Tips to Find the Best Car Shipping Company

There aren’t necessarily a ton of international car shipping companies out there. Hence, you’ll have to do a little research to locate the one that’s right for you. Don’t worry; there isn’t much to it. Just perform a Google search on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. 

After acquiring some results, it’s time to turn the research up a notch. After all, the last thing anyone needs is to get taken advantage of in a scam. For example, when searching for auto transport companies, be wary of businesses asking for upfront deposits. This could just be a ploy to swindle people out of their hard-earned money. 

So, instead, look online for testimonials and reviews of the auto transporters. In addition, head over to the Better Business Bureau’s website to learn about their BBB ratings and scam reports, if any. Then, once you’ve collected some data, the hope is that you’ll find a dependable car shipper. 

If you want another way to locate the top vehicle shipping company, why not ask around? But, no, don’t just talk to any person off the street. Rather, speak with those in your circle that you can trust. For example, recently, did a boss, co-worker, family member, or friend have a car shipped internationally? If that’s the case, discuss the experience with them. That can help you determine if a company will meet your demands and surpass your expectations. 

The Bottom Line

Hopefully, you now understand how to ship a car internationally. So, don’t delay when the time comes. Instead, do some research, locate the best shipper, and get your vehicle transported like a boss.