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Ship Your Car To Or From Belgium
Typical Shipping Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- Transporting a car from the U.S. to Belgium costs between $1,300 and $3,200 (prices are based on standard-sized vehicles).
- Most vehicle shipments to Belgium are either done in a container or by RORO (roll on, roll off) on a transport ship, and costs can vary based on season and availability.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Belgium
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Antwerp | $350 | $3,000 | 5+30 days |
| Boston, MA to (New York port) to Antwerp | $400 | $2,100 | 5+12 days |
| Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to Antwerp | $450 | $3,000 | 5+30 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to Antwerp | $550 | $3,000 | 6+30 days |
| Seattle, WA to (California port) to Antwerp | $550 | $3,000 | 6+30 days |
| Detroit, MI to (New York port) to Antwerp | $575 | $2,100 | 6+12 days |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to Antwerp | $675 | $2,100 | 6+12 days |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to Antwerp | $775 | $3,000 | 7+30 days |
| Memphis, TN to (New York port) to Antwerp | $800 | $2,100 | 6+12 days |
| Miami, FL to (New York port) to Antwerp | $925 | $2,100 | 7+12 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
*Save the ground transport cost by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
*Using the RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Having joined the European Union, Belgium is now bound by the same trade rules as other member states such as Ireland, Estonia, and Sweden. That being said, bringing an automobile into Belgium from other EU nations like Spain or from overseas locations such as California (CA) in the United States, Australia, Japan, or New Zealand is easier and more affordable than importing from outside the EU, such as Hawaii. Several factors should be considered before moving a motorcar into Belgium, such as Switzerland's import procedures, local guidelines for deliveries, or even Australian regulations for moving automobiles. It would be best to consider the cost of air freight, the availability of various delivery methods, or Sweden's protocols for moving vehicles. Additionally, researching specific customs requirements or regulations imposed by Belgium is crucial. Consulting with a reliable international logistics provider can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free process of relocating an automobile to Belgium. When selecting a company for this task, it is important to evaluate aspects such as experience, insurance coverage, and a proven record of successful deliveries to Belgium. Understanding Belgium's import rules and requirements is also essential to avoid delays or complications during the process. Partnering with an experienced company familiar with moving motorcars to Belgium can ensure seamless and successful completion.
Popular Shipping Destinations
Other Types Of Vehicles We Transport
Importing from Outside the European Union
Unfortunately, bringing an automobile from non-EU regions such as Japan, Hawaii, or Switzerland, not to mention navigating Australian logistics for moving motorcars, often involves a longer process and potential import duties. For example, relocating a Porsche from Florida (FL), Hawaii, or even New Zealand can present unique challenges. As a result, many choose to avoid this route. However, those committed to the process and adept at handling port procedures may find it worthwhile. Key considerations include estimating additional expenses like insurance fees and changes in sales taxes. Comparing prices and services among various logistics providers is essential to ensure the best option for moving an automobile into the country. Researching specific regulations and requirements is equally important to prevent complications during the process.
If the motorcar is imported for personal use or as part of household goods, exemptions from certain duties and VAT may apply. These exemptions are valid only if the following conditions are met:
- The owner has lived outside the EU for at least twelve consecutive months prior to the move.
- The automobile was purchased outside the EU and driven for at least six months before its arrival.
- VAT or an equivalent tax has already been paid before entry.
- The owner retains the vehicle for at least twelve months following its importation.
Note: All conditions must be satisfied to qualify for duty and tax exemptions.
Required Documents for Importing an Automobile
Clearing customs for a motorcar in the country requires proper documentation, regardless of its origin—be it Switzerland, California, Florida, or Australia. When bringing motorcars into the region, it's essential to account for any potential adjustments to sales taxes. Understanding the country’s customs procedures will ensure the process proceeds smoothly.
Partnering with a dependable logistics provider experienced in international automobile deliveries can simplify the task. Such experts will manage necessary paperwork, streamline logistics, and ensure the safe and secure movement of your vehicle, providing peace of mind throughout the journey. This professional support also allows you to bypass foreign road regulations and enjoy the convenience of having your automobile ready upon arrival in the country.
To clear customs with your vehicle, you must have the following documents upon arrival:
- Letter requesting exemption from duties and taxes.
- The bill of sale for the vehicle.
- The title of the vehicle.
- Receipt or proof of payment for the VAT or its equivalent.
- Receipt of insurance for six months prior to import.
- Proof of residency outside the EU for at least twelve months prior to import.
- Shipping documents for personal items.
Note: If the vehicle does not meet the requirements for import duty exemption, the owner will be liable for any duties and VATs in accordance with the car's market value.
Vehicle Preparation for Overseas Delivery
Once automobiles and packaged machinery from locations like Ireland, Spain, California's departure port, or New Zealand for Australian logistics are secured and loaded into cargo vessels or air freight systems, their journey to the scenic landscapes of Belgium begins. Upon reaching the destination port, vehicles are carefully unloaded, having been safeguarded throughout the voyage. At this stage, they proceed through customs inspections to ensure compliance with the nation’s import regulations. Following these formalities, owners can drive their automobiles along Belgium's charming roads or arrange delivery to their desired locations within the country.
Choosing an experienced service provider specializing in international logistics is key to a seamless process. These professionals handle documentation, customs clearances, and the secure movement of vehicles, granting peace of mind. Researching various providers and comparing their pricing and services ensures the best fit for individual needs while avoiding unnecessary complications.
Registration and Documentation
Before exporting an automobile, ensure all paperwork, such as proof of ownership, registration, and insurance, is complete. Reputable global logistics companies are invaluable in guiding clients through these processes, from understanding local regulations to securing customs approvals. Their expertise helps ensure smooth customs processing, whether using roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) methods or containerized options, depending on budget and preferences.
Heavy Equipment and Oversized Cargo
Transporting large machinery or oversized items to Belgium requires additional planning. Due to their size, such shipments often exceed the limits of standard containers and demand specialized handling. Comprehensive insurance is recommended to cover the full value of these items. Whether moving agricultural equipment, industrial machinery, or large vehicles from places like Miami, Savannah, or even international hubs like Sweden and Germany, it’s vital to work with logistics specialists who provide end-to-end support, including competitive rate quotes and efficient transit strategies.
Exploring Belgium with Your Vehicle
Bringing your vehicle into Belgium opens avenues for unforgettable exploration, from quaint towns to vibrant cities and idyllic countryside. For adventurers, having their automobile on hand makes traversing the region's picturesque roads more convenient. This is particularly appealing for long-term stays or those relocating to Belgium, as it provides independence and comfort during their journey.
Choosing a Reliable Auto Transport Company
When preparing to ship your motorcar to Belgium, selecting a reliable shipping company is crucial to ensure smooth logistics and compliance with international regulations. The costs involved can vary significantly based on departure locations like Sweden, Switzerland, Denmark, or New Jersey. Comparing services and rates from different companies helps find the best fit for your needs.
Essential Steps to a Hassle-Free Process
Documentation Preparation
Ensure all paperwork, such as proof of ownership, insurance, and vehicle registration, is in order—Research Belgium's import regulations to avoid delays.
Understanding Shipping Methods
Options like containerized shipping or roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) services cater to different needs and budgets. Container shipping offers better protection, while RoRo is cost-effective for operable vehicles.
Selecting a Reputable Company
Choose a shipping provider experienced in international auto transport. Their expertise simplifies customs procedures, tracking, and on-ground delivery to Belgium.
Customs Clearance and Registration
Upon arrival, vehicles must undergo customs inspections and adhere to Belgian regulations. Complete registration within six months of importation to ensure legal compliance.
International Transport Options for Oversized Cargo
For oversized machinery or heavy equipment, consider specialized methods such as:
- Flat Rack Transport: Secures cargo to a metal rack for shipment.
- Container Shipping: Ideal for safeguarding equipment from external hazards.
- RoRo Shipping: Economical for operational machinery or motorcars.
- Lift On/Lift Off (LoLo) Shipping: Uses cranes to manage non-operational cargo.
Reliable services streamline the transport of vehicles or equipment from locations like Los Angeles, Miami, Savannah, or even Sweden and UAE, ensuring safe delivery to Belgium. Partnering with an experienced company guarantees professionalism throughout this intricate process.
Relevant Statistics
- Over 10,000 cars are shipped to Belgium from various countries annually.
- Approximately 95% of car imports to Belgium come from neighboring European countries.
- The average cost to ship a car to Belgium is around €1,500.
- The number of cars shipped to Belgium has increased by 20% in the last decade.
- Around 80% of the cars shipped to Belgium are used vehicles.
General Facts
- Shipping a car to Belgium involves transporting a vehicle from one country to Belgium.
- It is important to research and hire a reliable international car shipping company for a smooth process.
- The car may be transported by sea or land, depending on the origin and logistics of the shipment.
- When shipping a car to Belgium, documentation such as proof of ownership, insurance, and customs forms is typically required.
- Additional costs, such as import duties and taxes, may apply when bringing a car into Belgium.
Other Services
- Overseas Moving Services to Belgium
- Commercial - business relocation to Belgium
Related Information
- How much will it cost me to ship a car to Belgium?
- What You need to about shipping a car to Belgium from the USA?
- Import vehicle into USA from Belgium
- Belgium container shipping
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common shipping ports include both seaports and inland ports. There are eight main ports that are scattered among the country:
- The Port of Antwerp – Antwerp is located on the Scheldt River and is considered Europe’s second-largest port after Rotterdam. This port is Belgium’s primary gateway into Europe and is situated approximately 80 kilometers southeast of the North Sea.
- The Port of Ghent – The port of Ghent is located in Ghent, East Flanders, in the Flemish Region and is Belgium’s third busiest seaport. The first port in Ghent was on the Scheldt Canal but was shifted to the Leie River.
- The Port of Zeebrugge – Located in the city of Bruges, the port of Zeebrugge is where the city’s rich past intertwines with its link to the sea. The port handles approximately 50+ million tons of cargo annually.
- The Port of Ostend – The port of Ostend is located in the province of West Flanders, in the Flemish Region. The port is a flexible seaport that is located in Europe’s busiest maritime area and serves all forms of maritime traffic.
- The Port of Brussels – The port of Brussels is the second-largest inland port in the country. It is strategically located in the heart of Europe. It promotes water transportation, job creation, global warming mitigation, and better urban distribution.
- The Port of Liege – The port of Liege is the third largest inland port in Europe. It is located in the Province of Liege in Wallonia at the Meuse river.
- The Port of Genk – The port of Genk is an inland port and container terminal that provides a full range of facilities, including a tri-modal platform (water, rail, and road) and capable of handling and transporting containers, traditional freight, and bulk.
- The Port of Namur – The port of Namur is situated in the south of Belgium, situated on the Rivers Meuse and Sambre, and is a comparatively tiny port.
If a car is being imported into Belgium from within the European Union, the owner will be required to provide the following to customs:
- A residency permit showing a permanent address in Belgium
- Proof of purchase for the vehicle to be imported
- Previous registration document
If these conditions are met, there will be no import tax levied.
If a car is being imported into Belgium from outside the European Union, the owner is required to undergo a lengthier process that requires the following:
- The owner of the car must have lived outside of the European Union for at least the twelve months prior to import
- The car must have been bought outside of the European Union and driven by the owner for at least six months before arriving in Belgium
- The owner must have already paid the VAT equivalent in another country
- The vehicle must be kept for personal use for at least twelve months following the import of it
Due to the heightened requirements for importing from outside the European Union, many people do not import their vehicles into Belgium.
Foreign vehicles that are being permanently imported have to be registered in the country. In some cases, there may even need to be physical changes to the vehicle need to be made to satisfy authorities. Anyone staying for more than a year needs to undergo registration procedures. From the time you are a Belgium citizen, you have six months to register the car.
The main registration office “Direction des Immatriculations des Véhicules/Dienst voor Inschrijving van de Voertuigen (DIV)” is located in Brussels, with regional offices scattered throughout the country. The following must be presented to the DIV to obtain registration and plates in Belgium:
- Proof of residency
- A certificate of conformity for the vehicle – often supplied by the manufacturer or local agent
- The invoice/proof of purchase for the vehicle
- The vehicle’s original registration certificate
- Evidence of insurance coverage, provided by a Belgium insurer
- Customs clearance forms, provided by Customs
- A vehicle-roadworthiness certificate – completed at a local test center
- The registration application form
- The required fees – this includes a one-off introductory tax and an annual road tax, dependent on the vehicle’s engine size
- Fiscal tax stamps – available from Post Offices
In Belgium, it is the car (not the driver) that is insured. Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle at all times, and not having proof of valid insurance can result in a fine. Car insurance can be expensive and is subject to VAT. Premiums are dependent on factors such as the age, make, and model of the car, the power of the car; the age of the driver; and the driving history of the driver of the vehicle.
Belgium has three types of insurance available:
- Third-Party Liability Insurance: Provides coverage against damages to a third party
- Part Comprehensive: Provides coverage for a third party as well as fire damage
- Fully Comprehensive: Provides coverage for virtually anything
The minimum coverage required is Third-Party Liability Insurance to cover damages that may occur to a third party or their property.
The short answer to this question is “yes, you should use an auto transport company to ship your car to Belgium.” We aren’t just saying this because we are an auto transport company. In fact, we believe in complete transparency – but when trying to ship a car to Belgium, it is best if you call on experts in international shipping.
Why should you? That’s the question, right? Well, here are some reasons that we think calling on the experts to handle your car shipment is necessary:
- Less planning or worrying
- Saves time
- Protects your vehicle during shipping
- Saves money
- Lower insurance costs
- Door-to-Door shipping opportunity
- Reliability and professionalism
- Attractive rates and discounts
As an international car shipping company, we offer transport services for multiple types of vehicles and oversized equipment. Some of the most common vehicle types include:
| Classic Cars | Luxury Cars | Antique Cars |
| SUVs & ATVs | Motorcycles | Sport Bikes |
| Electric and Alternative Vehicles | Dealership Inventory | RVs, Motor Homes, and Fifth Wheels |
| POVs for the Military | Oversized Vehicles | Yachts |
| Heavy Equipment | Boats | Watercraft |
There are a few methods of shipment that are preferable for shipping vehicles of various types to Belgium. We have four overseas methods that we use for transport. These include flat rack, RoRo, LoLo, and container shipping.
- Flat Rack: On a flat rack, your cargo is secured to a large metal rack before being placed on a ship that is on course for Belgium.
- Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): RoRo is the most affordable method of shipping that requires the vehicle or large equipment to drive onto the ship using the ramp, and it is taken off the ship in the same manner
- Lift-On/Lift-Off (LoLo): This is the shipping method that is used for inoperable vehicles. These are lifted using a crane for loading and unloading the vehicles onto the ship.
- Container Shipping: the safest transport method is also the most expensive method. Cargo is placed in a 40 ft shipping container so that it is protected on all sides
There are many different reasons why your car shipment could be delayed. Understandably, this could cause frustration, but the more you understand, the less likely you are to become overwhelmed by the delays. The most common delays include:
- Pandemic-Related Delays
- The COVID-19 pandemic caused a lot of delays, and some of them are still creating problems today. When pandemic cases are on the rise, it can create even more delays.
- Extraordinary Events and External Factors
- External factors like weather, piracy, fire, wars, and other extraordinary events are described as “force majeure” – these can have a severe impact on ocean freight. For example, the blockage of the Suez Canal in March 2021, which made shipping cargo without delay difficult
- Schedule Changes and Traffic Challenges
- If inland shipping is involved in a shipment, traffic challenges and schedule changes can create problems. These can occur especially in peak seasons, making it difficult to ensure that shipments arrive on time as they should.
- Customs Issues
- When shipping cargo internationally, especially vehicles, there can be issues with the importation process. When this happens, your vehicle may end up stuck at customs or require you to put it in storage temporarily. When customs hold up cargo, it can take days to weeks to rectify, depending on what customs needs to release the vehicle.
- Lack of Clarity in Direction for Shipment
- Every shipment comes with a set of directions that ensure it requires where it needs to go safely and timely. When there is a lack of clarity in those directions, it can create miscommunications and delays
- Lack of Technology
- Not every port has the technological advances as others do. When this occurs, it can create delays in processing – some ports have digital platforms, track and trace, and simple reporting procedures, while others don’t
- Port Congestion/Strikes
- Ports are dependent upon the workers who load and unload the ships. When these workers are unhappy or do not like the regulations and conditions, they may go on strike. Strikes can delay shipments for weeks and months, depending on when conditions are rectified, and the workers return to work. Sometimes, when strikes occur, these ships are rerouted. These rerouted ships can create congestion at other ports, further delaying shipments.
- Cargo Damage During Transport
- Sometimes when shipping cargo, there is damage to the cargo or even the ship. Damages are rare, but they do happen. When this happens, the ship’s crew and the transport company must go through proper procedures before delivery can occur. In some instances, it may even require the cargo to return to the point of origin.
A BoL is a legal document that is issued by a carrier to a shipper detailing the type, quantity, and destination of the cargo in question. When you ship your car, you will have a BoL with the shipping company, and it will begin with the pickup of your vehicle.
At pickup, the vehicle is inspected by you and the driver of the ground transport (or the shipping representative at the transport hub). Any imperfections like scratches or dents are noted on the BoL and signed off on by both parties. After transport, the same inspection is completed and signed off on. If there is any new damage, it needs to be notated by both parties and presented to insurance.
The most common information found on the BoL:
- Consignor
- Consignee
- Address of both parties
- Shipment date
- Quantity
- Exact weight
- Monetary value
- Freight classification
Other information that the shipping company may add includes if there is any hazardous classification, type of packaging used, and any specific instructions for delivery.
Here is where a definitive answer is hard to supply. Depending on the port of origin and the port of destination for your car, and if ground transport is required, the time and pricing will vary. If you are shipping from the east coast of the US to Belgium, it will be cheaper than shipping from the west coast.
The number of days will also be less shipping from the east coast versus the west coast. You can also expect the shipping process to be much cheaper and take less time if shipping within the European Union. The importation of a car from the United States is going to take much longer than within the European Union.
On average, you can expect a shipment of around $3,500 and up to 40 or more days to receive your car in Belgium. Some areas may require less time and money, whereas others may require more.
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