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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of documentation do I need to provide to ship a car to Europe?
Shipping a vehicle to Europe requires proper documentation:
Bill of Sale
- Declaration of Dangerous Goods (this identifies whether your auto transport car contains specific items such as airbags, car battery, gasoline, etc.)
- Title/Certificate of Origin
- Registration of own vehicle
- License Plates – if possible, submit the plate to the European regulatory authority where your car is arriving.
- Lien Release – if you don’t own your vehicle in full, you’ll need written authorization from your lienholder that allows you to take the car out of the country via shipping container.
How should I prepare my car for shipping to Europe?
- Get your car serviced to ensure that it’s in good condition before your ship a car to Europe.
- Remove all personal items if you’re transporting car to Europe using the RoRo method (FAQ #5). If you’ve chosen the shipping container method for vehicle haulage, you will be allowed to leave non-hazardous goods inside.
- Leave all standard car equipment (spare tire, emergency kit, etc.)
- Leave the license plates on the vehicle before the car shipment
- Clean your vehicle and take out personal belongings before shipping a car to Europe
- When beginning the journey to the European country, take photos to document its condition, i.e., pre-existing dings, dents, and scratches.
- Make sure the battery is fully charged and well-secured while shipping a car
- Leave ¼ tank of fuel in the tank while carrying a car
- Ensure the emergency brake works correctly before getting the car shipped
- Make sure tires have proper pressure while shipping a car
- Disable the alarm system while moving a car.
How do I get my car to the port for vehicle transport?
There are two ways to get your car to the port for international car shipping – drive it yourself or hire a delivery transport service (pickup truck) to pick it up and deliver it.
Check with your transport service of choice or broker to determine which way is best for you.
Ways for Importing a Car From Germany to USA?
Bringing a car from Germany to the USA can be an exciting but complex. Whether you're importing a classic German car or relocating with your vehicle, it's essential to understand the regulations, costs, and logistics involved. Every step, from customs clearance to EPA and DOT compliance, requires careful attention to avoid delays and extra expenses.
The cost of shipping a car from Germany to the USA depends on several factors, such as the shipping method, vehicle size, and destination port. On average, standard shipping options cost between $1,000 and $3,000.
Steps to Import a Car from Germany to the USA
Check U.S. Import Regulations
Not all cars meet U.S. safety and emissions standards the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set. If your vehicle doesn’t comply, modifications may be required, which can be costly.
Choose a Shipping Method
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping – A more affordable option where cars are driven onto a vessel but remain exposed to weather conditions.
- Container Shipping – Offers better protection, especially for luxury or classic cars, but comes at a higher price.
Calculate Import Taxes & Fees
- Import duty: 2.5% of the vehicle’s value
- Additional state taxes and registration fees may apply
Complete the Necessary Paperwork
You'll need to submit key documents like:
- Bill of Lading (shipping confirmation)
- HS-7 Form (DOT compliance)
- EPA Form 3520-1 (environmental standards)
Customs Clearance & Delivery
Once your car arrives at a U.S. port, it must go through customs inspection. After clearance, you can either pick it up or arrange for home delivery.
If you're also considering shipping a car to Germany from the USA, expect to pay between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on the port and shipping type. No matter which direction you're shipping, working with a reliable international car shipping company will make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Do I need special international car shipping insurance to ship a car to Europe?
Yes, you will need international car shipping insurance to European countries. The overseas auto transport company you select should offer (by law) you adequate vehicle insurance through their insurance program. But, if they don’t have it to ship cars, they can offer it through a third-party company with whom they partner.
On average, you can expect to pay 1.5% - 2.5% of the estimated value of your car for international insurance.
Are there any special shipping costs I should be aware of to import my car to Europe?
Yes, there will be import duties, import tax, and miscellaneous charges related to destination fees. These charges vary depending on the carriage method and will be higher for containers than for RoRo shipping. Your transport company or broker can help you determine what these fees will be to ship a car via consolidated container, ocean container, or RoRo shipping.
One thing worth noting here is that you should only work with the best car shippers to ship your car internationally as they offer competitive rates and excellent service.
Will I need insurance to drive my car in European Countries?
Yes, you will need insurance to drive in foreign countries. Once your car arrived in a shared container, this kind of insurance can be bought at your destination port when you pick up your own car. You can also arrange insurance for your compact car before shipping from the west coast.
Ask your international auto transport company or broker to help you with this. They’re the experts and know exactly what is required!
Are there any limitations for car shipping to Europe?
There may be. Each country in Europe has its own power to implement their own import rules and regulations for car shipping. You should check these out through the Embassy, your transport company, or broker who helped to transport your vehicle overseas in their own container. A1 Auto Transport has shipped cars to Europe since 1998. Contact us today at the phone number on the top of this page to know more information.
How much does it cost to ship my car to Europe via international car shipping companies?
In general, shipping a car to Europe can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000. Here are some of the most common shipping methods and their average costs:
- Container shipping: This is the most common method of shipping cars internationally. It is also the most affordable option, with average costs ranging from $1,000 to $2,000.
- Roll-on/roll-off shipping: This method involves loading the car onto a ship and securing it in place. It is a more expensive option than containers, with average costs ranging from $2,000 to $3,000.
- Air freight: This is the fastest method of shipping a car internationally, but it is also the most expensive option. Average costs range from $5,000 to $10,000.
The time it takes to ship a car to Europe will also vary depending on the shipping method. Container shipping typically takes 2-4 weeks, while roll-on/roll-off shipping takes 1-2 weeks. Air freight can take as little as 2-3 days, but it is the most expensive option.
To get an accurate estimate of the cost of shipping your car to Europe, we recommend getting quotes from multiple international car shipping companies. You can also use a car shipping calculator to get an estimate based on the specific details of your move.
What is the cheapest way for car transportation to europe?
Shipping a car to Europe can be a significant expense, but there are ways to minimize costs. If you're looking for the cheapest way to ship your vehicle, consider the following tips:
1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Service:
- RoRo is often the cheapest method to ship a car overseas. Your vehicle is driven onto a specialized ship, secured, and then driven off upon arrival at the destination port.
- This method doesn't offer protection against the elements or potential damage from other vehicles. However, it's generally safe and widely used for haulage.
2. Compare Shipping Ports:
- Costs can vary depending on the departure and arrival ports. It might be cheaper to drive or transport your vehicle to a different port in the U.S. and then have it arrive at a more major port in Europe, such as Rotterdam in the Netherlands or Antwerp in Belgium.
- Always compare prices for different port combinations to find the most cost-effective route.
3. Avoid Peak Seasons:
- The cost to ship can increase during peak seasons. If you can, try to ship during off-peak times when demand is lower.
4. Consolidation:
- If you aren't in a hurry, some companies might offer consolidation services where your car is placed in a container with other vehicles. This method can save money but can be slower, as you'll need to wait for the container to be filled.
5. Get Multiple Quotes:
- Always obtain quotes from several shipping companies. Prices can vary widely between providers. But ensure you're comparing like-for-like services and consider the reputation of each company.
6. Insurance:
- While looking for the cheapest option, don't skimp on insurance. However, do shop around for the best rate and make sure you understand what's covered.
- Some personal auto insurance policies might offer international shipping coverage, so check with your provider.
7. Limit Extra Services:
- Some companies offer door-to-door service, but it's generally cheaper to opt for port-to-port. This means you'll be responsible for getting your car to the departure port and from the arrival port to your final destination.
8. Prepare Your Vehicle:
- Ensure your car contains only a minimal amount of fuel (typically a quarter tank or less).
- Remove personal belongings, as these can increase weight and are not typically covered by shipping insurance.
- Clean the car inside and out. This helps prevent quarantine delays or additional cleaning fees at the destination.
9. Check for Discounts:
- Some companies offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, students, or repeat customers. Ask about any available discounts when obtaining quotes.
10. Understand Taxes and Import Duties:
- While not directly related to shipping costs, don't forget about potential taxes and import duties when bringing a car into Europe. Each country has its regulations, and these costs can add up. Research in advance to avoid surprises.
Lastly, while looking for the cheapest option, remember that reliability, reputation, and safety are crucial. Always ensure you're working with a reputable haulage company.
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