Ship Car to Europe from the USA with Expert Help and Transparent Costs


Premium Auto Transport Services to Europe
Are you thinking about shipping your car to Europe from the USA? Whether you're relocating, studying abroad, selling a vehicle overseas, or planning an extended European road trip, A-1 Auto Transport makes international vehicle shipping simple and reliable. With decades of experience and a strong network of ports and carriers across Europe, we handle the entire process—from U.S. pickup to delivery at your destination.
And it’s not just cars we ship. We move motorcycles, RVs, trucks, boats, and heavy equipment to countries across Europe every week. No matter the type of vehicle or the destination, we’ll help you get it there — safely, affordably, and without stress.
A1 Auto Transport's comprehensive services include:
- Door-to-door delivery
- Real-time tracking.
- Customized logistics solutions tailored to meet your specific needs.
When you choose A1 Auto Transport, you're choosing a reliable partner for your car carriage needs in Europe. We're committedto providing a seamless and stress-free experience, ensuring your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and on time.
Typical Car Shipping Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- Car transport costs to Europe from the U.S. can range from $1,200 to $5,000, depending on where the vehicle is shipped.
- Distance and the destination country significantly affect the price range of the international haulage company. So, car haulage from anywhere on the East Coast to Western Europe has the lowest international moving cost.
Car Shipping To Europe From The USA By A1 Auto Transport
Auto tourist visa
No matter what type of clearance you have, your vehicle will be on a visa of its own: an auto tourist visa. Therefore, you must own it outright with a title or have documentation from the lien holder stating that importing the motors overseas to your preferred destination country is okay.
Temporary holiday insurance
Suppose you want to legally drive your vehicle in any European Union country like the Netherlands. In that case, you need to buy temporary holiday insurance from a European business in addition to international car shipping insurance. All hauler firms that operate globally adhere to this rule.

Why People Ship Vehicles from the U.S. to EU
There are many reasons Americans and international clients choose to ship vehicles to Europe:
- Relocating for work, family, or long-term travel
- Military or government personnel on overseas assignments
- Selling or gifting a car to someone abroad
- Taking a car for an extended European tour or vacation
- Sending a motorcycle, RV, or classic car for events, rallies, or shows
- Collectors or enthusiasts moving unique vehicles to European markets
Driving in Europe with your familiar vehicle — especially a well-maintained one — can be more convenient and cost-effective than buying or leasing locally. And with A-1 Auto Transport, you won’t have to worry about paperwork, port handling, or customs requirements. We handle it all.
Vehicles We Help Transport
A-1 Auto Transport offers international shipping for nearly every kind of vehicle. We make sure each shipment is prepared correctly, insured, and delivered according to the laws and standards of the receiving European country.
Here are the vehicle types we commonly ship:
Cars & Passenger Vehicles:
Sedans, hatchbacks, convertibles, hybrids, and electric vehicles — whether personal, leased, or sold overseas.
Motorcycles & Scooters:
We offer crate or open transport options for two-wheeled vehicles, including high-end, vintage, or sport bikes.
RVs & Campers:
Depending on their size and destination, motorhomes, fifth-wheel trailers, and travel trailers can be shipped via roll-on/roll-off or containerized methods.
Pickup Trucks & Vans:
We handle personal and commercial shipments from compact utility vans to lifted trucks.
Boats & Jet Skis:
We provide seamless ocean freight service if you're taking your boat abroad or selling a watercraft to a European buyer.
Classic & Luxury Vehicles:
Shipping a high-value or collectible vehicle? Our enclosed container shipping provides the best protection during international transit.
ATVs, UTVs & Snowmobiles:
Popular for recreational or seasonal use, ATVs, UTVs, and other vehicles are crated or container-shipped to meet European import requirements.
Heavy Equipment & Machinery:
From tractors and bulldozers to industrial machines and generators, we easily handle large-scale shipments.
Whether your shipment is a single vehicle or a full container load, we’ll match it to the best method and schedule available.

International Vehicle Transport Options
We offer two main international shipping options to Europe, each with specific benefits depending on your budget, vehicle type, and destination.
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping
Roll-on/roll-off is one of the most common and cost-effective methods to ship operable vehicles overseas. Your car or vehicle is driven onto a specialized cargo ship, secured in a designated bay, and then driven off upon arrival.
Best for:
- Standard cars, motorcycles, and trucks in good running condition
- Customers seeking a lower-cost solution
- Larger vehicles that don’t require container protection
Main Benefits:
- Affordable pricing
- Fast departure schedules
- Secure, port-to-port process
Enclosed Container Shipping
If you want maximum protection or are shipping non-operable, high-value, or specialty vehicles, enclosed container shipping is ideal. Your vehicle is secured inside a steel shipping container and sealed for the journey.
Best for:
- Classic, exotic, or collector cars
- RVs and motorcycles
- Customers shipping personal belongings with their vehicle
Main Benefits:
- Full protection from weather and ocean exposure
- Option to ship other goods in the same container
- More flexible drop-off and delivery options
We’ll help you determine the best shipping method for your needs, factoring in timing, vehicle type, port access, and cost.

Popular European Destinations We Ship To
A-1 Auto Transport serves all major ports across Europe. No matter your destination, we likely have a route that fits.
Some of the most common European countries and ports we ship to include:
- Germany (Bremerhaven, Hamburg)
- France (Le Havre, Marseille)
- Netherlands (Rotterdam)
- United Kingdom (Southampton, Liverpool)
- Spain (Barcelona, Valencia)
- Italy (Genoa, Livorno)
- Belgium (Antwerp)
- Sweden, Norway, and Denmark
- Portugal, Poland, Finland, and more
From these main ports, inland transport can be arranged for delivery to your specific address or European city.

Customs, Documentation & Import Rules
Each European country has its own import regulations and tax structures. A-1 Auto Transport simplifies the process by assisting with:
- Customs clearance documentation
- Bill of lading and shipping instructions
- Vehicle title and ownership verification
- Insurance coverage
- Temporary or permanent import registration (as required)
We stay current on all import laws, including emissions and safety standards, to ensure your shipment complies with European guidelines.
Some countries allow temporary imports without taxes (ideal for vacation or study abroad), while others charge VAT, registration, or recycling fees for permanent imports. We’ll help you understand the specific requirements based on your destination and reason for shipping.

Financials on Shipping Cars: International Taxes and Fees
You must be prepared to pay taxes when you ship an automobile from the USA to Europe. As of 2022, the fee breakdown for getting your car delivered is as such:
- New cars: Shipping to the EU for a new vehicle is 19% of the value-added tax (VAT)
- Dutiable rate: 10%
* You can rest assured that motors owned for at least six months in the U.S. will not be charged a value-added tax.

Tips to Move Your Vehicle (International Standards)
It is key that you don't make plans to move your vehicle to an overseas location until you have confirmed that you have a visa for yourself and an auto visa for your vehicle and that you have identified aninternational car shipping company that specializes in a move of this magnitude, and that it can provide adequate vehicle insurance.
The Federal Maritime Commission should license your chosen international transport company. This ensures the company has experience moving vehicles to the Western world and has the necessary financial bond.
Customs and Border Protection
You must also know the rules on international auto transport from the U.S. For instance, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency regulates the kind of products and shipments leaving the country to ensure they are legit and legal.
Check on requirements for exporting something out of the country to properly prepare you as a car owner.
For example, you must know the nearest terminal when carrying a vehicle to Europe, say Italy. You should also know how much it will cost to get to your new home or where you will stay for your trip from the terminal.

How Long Does It Take for International Car Shipping to Europe?
Understanding the factors influencing the shipping time from the USA to Europe is crucial for making informed decisions. Typically, traveling from the United States to the Western world takes 2 to 6 weeks. This duration is affected by the departure and arrival ports, the chosen haulage method (container shipping or roll-on/roll-off), customs clearance procedures, and potential delays due to weather conditions or logistical issues.
Working closely with a reputable international hauling company is essential to get an accurate estimate and ensure your vehicle's smooth and timely transit to Europe.

Why Choose A-1 Auto Transport EU Car Shipping?
Shipping a vehicle overseas requires precision, professionalism, and strong logistics. A-1 Auto Transport brings all three decades of experience, a proven network of global partners, and an unbeatable commitment to customer satisfaction.
Here’s why thousands trust us with their international vehicle shipping:
- Over 30 Years of Experience: We’ve handled every type of vehicle and every major shipping route.
- Licensed & Fully Insured: Your shipment is covered every mile of the journey — from pickup to delivery.
- Door-to-Port or Port-to-Port Service: We offer pickup anywhere in the U.S. and delivery to all major European ports.
- Custom Solutions: No two shipments are the same. We’ll create a plan that fits your schedule, vehicle type, and destination.
- All Vehicle Types Welcome: We have the resources and carriers to ship nearly anything from cars to construction equipment.
- Transparent Quotes: No hidden fees or surprise charges — just fair, competitive auto transport quotes.
Get a Free Quote to Ship Your Vehicle Today
Shipping a car or any vehicle to Europe doesn’t have to be stressful. With A-1 Auto Transport, it’s easier than ever. We’ll walk you through every step, ensure your documents are in order, and arrange a smooth, secure shipment to your European destination.
Call us today at 1-888-230-9116 for a free, no-obligation quote. Whether you're shipping a car, bike, RV, or boat, we’re here to make your journey across the Atlantic hassle-free.

Relevant Statistics
- Over 150,000 cars are shipped yearly from the United States to the Western world.
- The average cost of shipping a vehicle to Europe is $2,500.
- Approximately 85% of cars shipped to Europe are luxury or high-end vehicles.
- There has been a 40% increase in car conveyance to the Euro nations in the past five years.
- The most popular European destination for imported cars is Germany, receiving around 30% of all shipments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need for car transportation to Europe?
You must provide the original vehicle title, a copy of your passport or government ID, and a completed export authorization. Vehicles with liens require written lender approval. U.S. Customs typically reviews documents 72 hours before export, and destination countries may request additional import forms. Using an experienced provider familiar with international rules helps prevent delays. For a full breakdown, see the international car shipping service overview.
How long does shipping a car from the U.S. to Europe take?
Transit time usually ranges from 14 to 30 days once the vehicle departs the U.S. port. East Coast ports such as New York or Baltimore offer faster routes than West Coast departures. Timing also depends on vessel schedules, customs clearance speed, and destination port congestion. Planning at least 4–6 weeks ahead reduces delays and improves carrier availability.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Europe from the USA?
The cost to ship a car to Europe typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. RoRo shipping is usually the lowest-cost option, while container shipping costs more due to added protection. Pricing is influenced by vehicle size, U.S. departure port, European destination, seasonality, and fuel surcharges. You can estimate pricing quickly using an international car shipping rates calculator.
Should I choose container shipping or RoRo when shipping a car to Europe?
Choose RoRo for lower cost and standard vehicles that run and drive. Container shipping is better for luxury, classic, or high-value cars, offering full enclosure and added security. Containers also allow limited personal items in some cases. Your decision should weigh vehicle value, exposure tolerance, and budget. Both options are handled through professional international carriers.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Europe?
Roll-on roll-off shipping is generally the cheapest method for shipping a car to Europe. Your vehicle is driven onto the vessel and secured inside the ship, reducing handling and container costs. RoRo works best for operable standard vehicles and flexible schedules. Savings are highest when shipping from major ports and avoiding peak summer demand. Learn more about RoRo car shipping costs.
Are there taxes or import fees when shipping a car to Europe?
Most European countries charge VAT, import duty, and port handling fees upon arrival. VAT commonly ranges from 19% to 25% of the vehicle’s assessed value, depending on the country. Some exemptions apply for temporary imports or relocations. Fees are paid at destination and are separate from U.S. shipping charges, so budgeting ahead is essential.

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