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How Are Vehicles Shipped Overseas

Published by Joe Webster.

How Are Vehicles Shipped Overseas

This is How Vehicles Shipped Overseas

Shipping vehicles overseas is a common activity in different countries around the world. Many countries have also increased their revenue by manufacturing cars and sending them to nations where vehicles are in demand. The reason for moving automobiles ranges from personal to commercial, with the main aim being delivery of the vehicle to its intended destination. Fortunately, several carrier options are available for vehicle owners who want to move motorcars abroad. Here are some available transport options to look up if you’re wondering how vehicles are shipped overseas.

Transport Options

Shipping Containers

A huge number of cars that are shipped overseas are transported using containers. These containers are usually twenty to forty feet in size and are the safest automobile delivery method. Some are partitioned to allow maximum use of the space. The cars in the containers are usually strapped down to be stable, with wooden blocks placed on the sides to keep them secure. Personal belongings can be stored alongside the automobiles when hauling cars, a practice that could help lower the overall shipping cost. Vehicles that are small in size, intermediate or larger, are best hauled using shipping containers.

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Open Air Trucks

In the US, all states are connected by road, making it easy to haul automobiles to the country within agreed timelines. How are vehicles shipped overseas using trucks is a common question among vehicle owners. Not only can these trucks be used locally, they can also be used to ship cars abroad. That is provided that there is a good road network in between or as a complementary transport option to air freight and sea freight. Open-air trucks are quite affordable because they can carry many cars, making them a top choice for many vehicle owners.

a roro vessel on the sea

Roll on /Roll off

Shipping cars to overseas destinations can also be done using the Roll on/ Roll off (RO/RO) option. This transport option involves the vehicle being driven into the ship by the vehicle owner/handler. The specially designed ship has enclosed parking decks that allow cars to be arranged within the space securely and economically. Every vehicle on the boat has its own parking spot where it stays until it reaches the overseas destination. On arrival, the vehicle or their representative drives the car from the ship to the customs clearance office to conclude all the necessary formalities. This moving option is ideal for all types of vehicles.

Enclosed Trucks

If your car is transported during winter, you must ensure it is well protected. Enclosed trucks are the best option for such a move, although it might cost you more regarding transportation charges. The trucks, which are designed to cover the entire loading sections, are also ideal for high-end vehicles whose damage may result in costly repairs. Motorcar shipping using enclosed trucks is, therefore, safer and is highly suitable for new or high-end cars.

Cargo airplane

How are vehicles shipped overseas quickly and safely, is another question often asked by automobile owners seeking to transport vehicles. Overseas hauling via air is the most ideal answer, albeit expensive. Depending on the arrangement, the vehicle owner can drop off the car at the airport or pick it up from their premises. When the vehicle arrives at the airport, it is loaded onto the plane using special equipment. Alternatively, it can be driven into the plane and parked in the cargo section, which is secured using straps and blocks. In many cases, a plane can only carry a single vehicle at a time.

Professional Drivers

Although not commonly used for long distances, professional drivers can be a great option when on a low budget. These drivers are experienced in driving for long hours and in different terrains in different countries. It is possible to have two drivers move the car to a neighboring country to take turns driving up to the the final destination. The downside of this kind of long-distance driving is the accumulation of extra miles on the motorcar, especially if you plan to sell it. However, professional drivers are worth the investment if the vehicle is for personal use.

large vessel carrying containers

In general, the mode of transportation selected for shipping cars abroad is largely dependent on an individual’s budget and personal choice. If you still have questions on how are vehicles shipped overseas, you can call us and book an appointment with our team to get them all answered.

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Joe Webster always knew the auto transport industry would be a great career option. And with decades of experience, Joe is now an established consultant for A1 Auto Transport.

Joe was born in Santa Cruz, California. During high school, Joe worked as a mechanic; a job continued to work part-time during his bachelor's degree.

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A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

CSI Logistics
435 Division Street
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
FMC 22206
Intl Cargo
45 Campus Drive
Edison, NJ 08837
NO. 17858N
Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.
3401 E Randol Mill Rd,
Arlington, TX 76011
NO. 018191NF
CFR Rinkens
15501 Texaco Avenue
Paramount, CA 90723
NO. 013055NF
ABC Worldwide LLC
2840 NW 2nd Ave #105
Boca Raton, FL 33431
NO. 025472F
ShipYourCarNow LLC
1160 South Rogers Circle Suite 1
Boca Raton, FL 33487
NO. 025646
Merco Air & Ocean Cargo, Inc.
6 Fir Way
Cooper City, FL 33026
NO. 021869F
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