How to Ship a Vehicle Internationally – A Step by Step Guide

International vehicle shipping

This step-by-step guide will help you understand the process of shipping a vehicle overseas. While shipping a car or other vehicle to another country takes some expertise and knowledge of what is required. Failure to comply with requirements could result in delays or storage fees, so you want to make sure you’re working with a company like Ship Your Car Now with extensive experience in international vehicle shipping.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have specific questions or would like an estimate.

Step One: Fill Out the Quick Quote Form

Completing the quote form at Ship Your Car Now gives us the information needed to provide you with an estimate of what it will cost to ship your car overseas. Once we receive your information an international shipping expert will contact you to review the estimate and the process.

Step Two: Finalize the Booking and Scheduling

Once a shipping expert has reviewed all key information with you (e.g. service options, quote, destination information and customs requirements) you can finalize the booking, determine scheduling logistics and make a deposit to begin the process.

Step Three: Gather the Necessary Documents

You will need to provide key information, including:

  • Personal identification. Two copies of government-issued identification (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
  • Vehicle title. One copy is needed for booking, and the original must go along with the vehicle.
  • Proof of ownership/bill of sale or a certified letter of authorization from the lien holder. Recently purchased vehicles will require a bill of sale. If the vehicle is currently financed, we need a copy of the title and a copy of the lien authorization, both notarized by the lien holder. The finance company must physically mail this to you so that the notarization stamp is original; this document cannot be emailed or faxed. These documents must be available when the vehicle is picked up so that it can go with the vehicle.

Step Four: Complete and Return All Required Paperwork

Consignee Form. This form will be provided by the shipper for you to fill out. Shipping information required includes name, address, and phone number for both the individual shipping the vehicle from the country of origin, as well as the consignee (person the vehicle is going to) at the country of destination. Vehicle information includes year, make, model, and estimated value.

Container List. If your vehicle is traveling in a container with other items, make a general list of everything included. We are not responsible for any of the items in the vehicle, but it is always best to provide us with a list, which we will include in your booking information.

Return All Documents in a Timely Manner. A common delay in transport is when we don’t receive your required documents in a timely manner to complete your booking. We can’t assist you if you haven’t either faxed, mailed or email the required documents.

Step Five: Get Your Vehicle to the Port of Origin

You can drop you vehicle at the port, or Ship Your Car Now can arrange for transportation of your vehicle to the port. This will be discussed in the initial call and your quote will reflect this.

Final Payment. The final invoice will be generated once your vehicle is picked up by Ship Your Car Now, or it arrives at the port of origin (if you are dropping it off). This final invoice must be paid before your vehicle has arrived at port of destination you will incur storage fees.

Dock Receipt. If you are dropping your vehicle off at the port you will need a dock receipt before arrival. This will be issued through your representative at Ship Your Car Now once your booking is completed. If we are transporting your vehicle to the port we will handle this.

Step Six: Receive Your Vehicle at the Destination

You will be sent tracking information for the vessel transporting your vehicle, and you will receive notice prior to your vehicles arrival at the port. At that point you will be put in touch with a destination agent who your consignee will work with to receive your vehicle. Your consignee’s identification must match the consignee information that you provided. Your consignee will also need our Bill of Lading (BOL) to pick up the vehicle.

While there are a variety of steps involved and paperwork is required, the international shipping agents at Ship Your Car Now have extensive experience in making sure your car shipping goes smoothly. Expedited services may also be available for faster shipping. Contact Ship Your Car Now to discuss your situation and your specific needs.