Comprehensive International Vehicle Shipping Services

When considering shipping your vehicle overseas, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, motorhome, caravan, or even specialised machinery, a clear understanding of the available services, regulations, and preparation is essential. At Ship Cars, we offer a range of flexible and secure shipping solutions designed to meet your specific needs. This guide provides complete information on our services, destination requirements, and cost factors.

Why Do People Ship Vehicles Overseas?

The reasons for shipping vehicles internationally are diverse and often deeply personal or business-critical:

• Relocation/Transfer of Residence: Individuals moving abroad for work, retirement, or personal reasons often need to ship their primary vehicle.
• Exporting for Sale: Businesses and individuals may export vehicles to markets where they command a higher price or are in greater demand.
• Holiday or Temporary Import: Tourists, expatriates, or individuals undertaking extended travel may temporarily import their vehicles for use abroad.
• Specialty Vehicles: Shipping classic cars, collector’s items, or unique machinery for events, exhibitions, or specific projects.
• Military Deployment: Personnel stationed overseas may ship their personal vehicles.
• Vehicle Purchase Abroad: Importing a vehicle purchased in another country.

Our International Shipping Services

We provide a variety of methods to ensure your vehicle reaches its destination safely and efficiently.

1. RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

• Description: This is a cost-effective shipping method where your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised vessel and secured for transit. It’s akin to a ferry service for cargo.
• Ideal For: Operational cars, motorcycles, motorhomes, caravans, and light commercial vehicles.
• Key Restrictions:
  • The vehicle must be in fully operational condition and able to be driven.
  • No personal belongings or any other goods are permitted inside the vehicle.
  • Hybrid and electric vehicles are not permitted on RoRo services due to battery regulations.
• Learn More: Discover the benefits and process of RoRo shipping on our RoRo Shipping page.

2. Container Shipping

Container shipping offers enhanced security and flexibility, making it suitable for a wider range of vehicles and cargo.

1. a) Dedicated Container Shipping

• Description: Your vehicle is loaded into its own exclusive shipping container (20ft or 40ft). This provides the highest level of security and protection.
• Ideal For: All types of vehicles, including non-running ones, classic cars, luxury vehicles, and situations where you need to ship personal effects or spare parts alongside the vehicle.
• Key Features:
  • Maximum protection against the elements and damage.
  • Ability to securely pack and ship personal belongings, spare parts, or tools.
  • Suitable for hybrid and electric vehicles (though electric vehicles may incur a hazard surcharge of £295 due to battery regulations).
  • Vehicles do not need to be working for container shipping.
• Learn More: Explore the advantages of dedicated container shipping on our Container Shipping page.

1. b) Shared Container Shipping

• Description: Your vehicle is loaded into a container along with other vehicles. This offers a more economical container solution.
• Ideal For: Operational cars and motorcycles where budget is a key consideration, but you still desire the security of containerisation.
• Key Features:
  • More affordable than dedicated containers.
  • Good security and protection.
  • Vehicles do not need to be working.
  • Restrictions: Shipping companies generally prohibit personal belongings in shared containers to ensure proper space allocation and equitable loading.

Shipping Specific Vehicle Types

We cater to a diverse range of vehicles beyond standard cars.

Motorcycles

• Methods: You can ship motorcycles via RoRo if they are operational, or more commonly, in a dedicated or shared container.
• Preparation: Motorcycles require specific preparation, including draining fuel to a safe level, disconnecting the battery, and securing them within the shipping container or vessel to prevent movement.

Motorhomes and Caravans

• Methods: These larger recreational vehicles are typically shipped via RoRo due to their size and driveable nature. Shippers may choose dedicated container shipping for smaller units or when they need specific protection.
• Preparation: Requires draining fuel and water tanks, securing all internal contents, and ensuring external fixtures are properly stowed.

Machinery and Equipment

• Methods: RoRo is often suitable for operable machinery. Use container shipping for non-operational or delicate equipment. Depending on the item, you may need to provide custom crating or skidding.
• Preparation: Varies greatly depending on the machinery. Requires secure loading, securing moving parts, and appropriate protective measures.

Destination Regulations: Permanent Export, Transfer of Residence, and Temporary Import

Navigating the import regulations of your destination country is critical. These rules vary significantly and can impact whether your vehicle can be imported, what duties and taxes apply, and any age or condition restrictions.

Permanent Export

This typically refers to exporting a vehicle permanently out of the UK, often for sale or to comply with regulations in a new country where it will be registered and used.

• Requirements: Generally involves ensuring the vehicle meets the destination country’s import standards, including age, emissions, and safety regulations. Comprehensive documentation is usually required.

Transfer of Residence (ToR)

This applies when you are moving to a new country and wish to import your personal vehicle without paying full import duties and taxes.

• Eligibility: Strict criteria usually apply, often requiring you to have owned and used the vehicle in your previous country of residence for a minimum period (e.g., 6-12 months) before your arrival in the new country. You must also typically be establishing residency in the new country.
• Process: You usually need to apply for and receive official approval (e.g., a Transfer of Residence relief) before shipping the vehicle.
• Authority Links: Specific government customs websites or embassies of your destination country will provide details.

Temporary Import

This is for vehicles being imported for a limited duration, such as for holidays, tourism, or temporary work assignments.

• Requirements: Typically requires a Temporary Importation Permit (TIP), proof of vehicle ownership, registration documents, and often a guarantee or bond to ensure the vehicle will be re-exported. Age and type restrictions may still apply.
• Duration Limits: Permits are issued for specific periods and cannot usually be extended beyond a certain point without re-importation procedures.

General Advice on Regulations:

• Consult Authority Websites: Always refer to the official customs authority of your destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Examples include:
  • Australia: Australian Border Force
  • New Zealand: New Zealand Customs Service
  • USA: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  • (Note: Specific links will vary by country. Always search for the official government customs website.)
• Use a Local Clearing Agent: For complex destinations, engaging a customs clearing agent in the destination country is highly recommended. They can navigate the regulations on your behalf.

Required Paperwork

In the UK:

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C): Proof of UK registration and ownership.
2. Proof of Ownership: Bill of Sale or invoice if recently purchased.
3. Identification: Copy of passport or driving license.
4. Shipping Booking Confirmation: Details of your service.
5. Export Declaration: Handled by the shipping company.

At the Destination Port:

• Bill of Lading: Issued by the shipping company.
• Customs Declaration Forms: Specific to the destination country, often completed by a local clearing agent.
• Proof of Ownership: Original V5C, Bill of Sale.
• Identification: Passport.
• Transfer of Residence (ToR) Documentation: If applicable, must be pre-approved.
• Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): For temporary imports.
• Import Permit: If required.
• Certificate of Origin: May be requested.
• Invoice: Showing vehicle value.
• Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate: If mandated by the destination country.

Duty and Tax Implications

Importing a vehicle into another country typically incurs significant charges.

• VAT (Value Added Tax): A percentage of the CIF value plus import duty.
• Other Taxes/Fees: Various other taxes (e.g., excise duty, luxury taxes, road taxes, inspection fees) may apply depending on the destination country.
• ToR Relief: As mentioned, Transfer of Residence provisions may exempt you from some duties and taxes if you meet strict eligibility criteria.

Note: These costs can be substantial. Always factor them into your budget and research them thoroughly for your specific destination.

Vehicle Collection and Delivery in the UK

We offer convenient collection services from across the UK:

• Transporter Collection: Your vehicle is safely transported to the port on a specialised trailer.
• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid MOT, it can be driven to the port by our experienced drivers.

Shipping Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

• RoRo: Not permitted.
• Container & Shared Container: Permitted.
• Hazard Surcharge: Electric vehicles shipped via container typically incur a hazard surcharge, approximately £295, due to regulations concerning their high-voltage batteries.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost of international vehicle shipping is influenced by several factors:

• Shipping Method: RoRo is typically more economical than container shipping.
• Vehicle Size and Type: Larger vehicles or those requiring specialised handling incur higher costs.
• Shipping Route: Distance and demand affect freight rates.
• Port Fees: Charges at UK and destination ports.
• Documentation Fees: For processing all necessary paperwork.
• Customs Duties and Taxes: Levied by the destination country.
• Clearing Agent Fees: For customs brokerage at the destination.
• Collection/Delivery Charges: If applicable within the UK.
• Specialised Services: E.g., hazard surcharge for electric vehicles, lifting non-running vehicles into containers.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Ship Cars Ltd continues to position itself as a trusted leader in the vehicle shipping industry, offering reliable, efficient, and customer-focused transport solutions both domestically and internationally. With a strong commitment to service quality, transparency, and innovation, the company not only meets the evolving needs of its clients but also sets new standards within the logistics and auto transport sector. As global demand for safe and timely vehicle delivery grows, Ship Cars Ltd stands ready to drive forward with integrity, expertise, and a clear vision for the future.