How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car from the US to PR?

Shipping a vehicle from the continental United States to Puerto Rico requires planning and understanding the costs and logistics involved. The process involves more than just loading your car onto a cargo ship - there are insurance, documentation, customs, and other considerations.

By learning about the shipping process, costs, and regulations up front, vehicle owners can feel more confident and prepared when moving a car to Puerto Rico.

This blog post will break down all aspects of shipping a vehicle from the US mainland to the island, including average costs, methods of transport, necessary paperwork and approvals, restrictions, and tips for choosing a reputable shipping company.

Understanding the Costs Involved

The average cost to ship a vehicle from the US mainland to Puerto Rico is between $1,000 and $2,000 depending on factors like vehicle size and weight, origin location, carrier availability, and gas prices.

Standard passenger cars weighing under 5,000 pounds can expect to pay closer to $1,000-$1,500 on average.

Larger trucks, SUVs, and heavier cars may cost $1,500-$2,000 or more on the higher end.

Factors affecting the cost

Several elements impact the final cost of shipping a vehicle to Puerto Rico. Heavier and larger trucks and SUVs will cost more than a standard sedan. The further away the pickup location from the port, the higher the rates, as carriers must transport vehicles longer distances.

Seasonal demand means summer rates are usually higher than during other times of the year when shipping lanes aren't as busy. Gas prices also influence costs, with rates increasing when fuel prices rise.

The availability of carriers to load and transport vehicles can also impact costs, especially during peak times.

Additional costs

On top of introductory shipping rates, plan for extra insurance, storage fees, taxes, and costs if the vehicle won't be operable during transport. Comprehensive marine cargo insurance typically runs $150-500 depending on the value insured. Puerto Rico imposes a $120 importation tax.

Inoperable vehicles also require disassembly fees from $400-1000 or more. Storage fees at the destination port also apply if arrangements aren't made for prompt pickup. Ensure complete budgeting for these incidental charges on top of introductory shipping rates.

The Shipping Process

Here is a brief outline of the shipping process from the US to Puerto Rico:

Different shipping options: door-to-port and port-to-port services

The two main options to transport a vehicle to Puerto Rico are door-to-port (DTP) and port-to-port (PTP) services. DTP pickup involves the carrier collecting the car from the owner's location and transporting it to the departure seaport. This offers full-service convenience but tends to be pricier.

PTP requires owners to drop their car off at the designated shipping port themselves and save on pickup fees - however, this means arranging your transport to get your vehicle there initially.

The most widely used method to transport cars between the mainland US and Puerto Rico is via Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) cargo vessels. This involves vehicles simply driving on and off the cargo ship via ramps.

Besides adequately securing them with tie-downs for the ocean voyage, no special preparation is required. RORO is a cost-effective bulk method suitable for the high volumes of vehicles regularly shipped between locations.

Vessels leave US East Coast ports like Jacksonvilleand Miamito Puerto Rico's main port of San Juan multiple times weekly during peak seasons.

The frame for shipping a car from various locations in the US to Puerto Rico

Shipping time frames from the US mainland to Puerto Rico average 7-10 days, depending on starting port location and seasonal weather conditions.

Expect slightly longer travel times during winter, as weather patterns can impact schedules more. Carriers will provide estimated transit periods when getting quotes. Be sure to plan adequate time between shipment and needing the vehicle in Puerto Rico.

Means of Transporting a Car

While RORO dominates for cost and volumes to Puerto Rico, alternatives exist. Car shipping containers provide higher security against elements and potential for multivehicle transport.

However, containers also mean higher costs due to special handling. Lift-On Lift-Off (LOLO) involves vehicles driving directly onto flat rack platforms lifted aboard the ship by crane. Flatracks are similar, but cars must be strapped down manually. Only professional carriers should perform LOLO or flat rack transport requiring specialized equipment.

Factors to consider when choosing a shipping method

The type of transport service best depends on a vehicle's value, size, and potential for theft or damage during shipment. RORO suits standard cars well and provides the least expensive option.

But for high-end luxury vehicles or large off-road trucks, paying more for the added security of a sealed container transport may bring peace of mind. To find the right fit, owners must evaluate which factors like costs, timing needs, and vehicle protection matter most. Carriers can assist with determining compatible options.

Insurance Needs

See below for a brief over of the insurance requirements for your car's voyage:

Importance of marine insurance for peace of mind

When transporting a vehicle overseas by sea, mishaps from storms, waves, equipment issues, and more are always possible risks. Comprehensive marine cargo insurance provides protection should any such incident occur between the US starting point and arrival in Puerto Rico. Premium costs are usually quite reasonable compared to potential losses. Even a basic policy covering damage or loss is worth investing in for one's shipped vehicle.

How shipping insurance works and what it covers

Marine cargo policies cover vehicles in Puerto Rico from pickup until delivery. Standard coverage protects against sinking, fire, collisions, and more during ocean transit. Higher "declared value" plans to insure vehicles up to an agreed maximum amount. Damage needs to be backed by carrier records or investigations.

Items like modifications may require added premiums for including comprehensive coverage. Reading one's policy and understanding limitations or exclusions is critical before shipment.

Customs and Environmental Regulations

Certificate of Conformity

Puerto Rico requires all imported vehicles to have a valid EPA Certificate of Conformity. This certifies the model complies with federal emissions standards. Only new vehicles have these already; used cars need an application submitted verifying compliance without a current EPA cert. The vehicle risks impoundment on arrival.

Allow a month for processing forms in the application window before shipment. Carriers can help with forms if they are aware in advance of shipping.

Customs regulations for shipping a car to Puerto Rico

On arrival, a 5% importation duty applies to the vehicle value determined by Puerto Rico's Fiscal Control Office. In addition to title, registration, and insurance, owners also need a completed CR-3 Customs form and CR-2 if the vehicle is a gift.

However, since you are coming from the US mainland, there is no need to go through the customs process.

Restrictions and Possible Issues

Here are some of the potential issues you might run into when importing a car to Puerto Rico:

Restrictions on the amount of fuel in the vehicle and cleanliness of the car

Strict policies surround bringing petroleum products on board ships. Most carriers permit no more than one-quarter fuel tank or 10 gallons maximum, regardless of tank size. This rule exists due to volatile cargo concerns.

Vehicles also need thorough exterior cleansing to remove debris that might fall onto decks - which must remain clear for crew safety at sea. Failure to address these prep steps could risk denied loading by ship operators.

Possible issues during shipping and how to avoid them

Issues occasionally crop up, like storm delays adding time, mechanical or technical failures, or human error causing schedule changes.

Communicating closely with one's selected carrier throughout the process helps catch potential hiccups early. It also allows owners to rearrange receiving arrangements smoothly if needed. Inspections before pickup and lashings during loading help address theft and damage worries.

Purchasing coverage above depreciated value relieves financial anxiety if mishaps occur.

Final Thoughts

Properly researching and choosing a car shipping company is crucial when transporting a vehicle overseas from the continental United States to Puerto Rico. Understanding the relocation process's varying costs, regulations, restrictions, and potential challenges allows owners to plan appropriately.

By carefully assessing multiple carriers' reputations, service standards, transparency, and ability to meet customized transportation needs, the right transport provider pairing results in peace of mind. Through diligent upfront preparation coupled with a trusted partner for the voyage, a smooth and on-schedule vehicle importation to Puerto Rico occurs as envisioned.

Shipping to Puerto Rico?

Rely on A1 Auto Transport and our 25 years of experience shipping vehicles safely andon time.

Get a free quote now.