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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important/busiest ports in Poland for car shipments?
While the coastline of Poland is dotted with ports, most of them are entwined with seafaring, rather than for freighting and shipping.
These are the most important ones:
Port of Gdańsk: This is by far the largest seaport in Poland and has two subsections: the internal port and the northern port. The northern port can service some of the largest vessels on the seas, i.e. with a capacity of around 300,000 tons. All in all, the port is as busy as ports get and has an annual cargo tonnage of more than 49 million tons!
Port of Gdynia: This port possesses favorable transportation connections and is the most likely destination for your car shipment owing to its vast capabilities in handling trans-shipping operations. With an annual container volume exceeding 849,123 (last data from 2018), the port services thousands of vessels year-round.
Port of Szczecin: This deepwater port now hosts a free trade zone within, it forms a duo with the port of Świnoujście; this complex is among the largest of its kind in the Baltic. The port can handle almost a million tons of cargo traffic, a major percentage of all cargo-shipping traffic coming to and going from Poland.
How much will my car shipment from the USA to Poland cost me, can you give me a rough estimate?
The average price range for shipping your car from the USA to Poland is between $2,900 and $4,600. This is by no means a fixed range, the price fluctuates based on several factors such as the details of the car itself, the shipping distance, and whatnot.
This is merely a reference for you to prepare yourself mentally for the financial commitment that lays ahead.
Can you please break down the entire cost structure of shipping a car from A to Z?
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the shipping costs:
- The over-land traveling distance
- Dues for the freighting
- Insurance coverage fees if you opted for insurance protection
- Storage charges (i.e. in wharves)
- Delivery charges, in case you opted for it
- Taxes applicable on your shipment, if you don’t fall under any exemptions
- Customs duties
- Car cleaning and vacuuming charges
- Import processing dues
- Customs broker’s charges; this only applies if you hire one
These are pretty much all fractions of your car shipping cost, in some cases, as you may have already noticed, you can save up by doing things a certain way. For instance, if applicable in your case, you can import your vehicle tax-free and thus save up on the taxes and customs duties.
Why do the prices for shipping a car from the USA to Poland vary so much, even on fixed routes?
Even on a fixed route, the costs for shipping a car can vary a lot and there are some reasons for that:
- The make and model of the car, i.e. its details, sizes, etc.
- The car’s age, i.e. when was it manufactured?
- Based on the current condition of the car, how much is it worth monetarily?
- The selected shipping option, i.e. “roll-on, roll-off” shipping is significantly cheaper than container shipping.
- Whether or not your vehicle is exempt from the taxes and customs duties in the destination, if not, you’ll have to pay a percentage of the shipping price and the vehicle’s cost as tax.
- If you opt to have insurance protection coverage, you’ll have to pay fees for that a well.
- The equipment and materials used in this whole process will also affect the final price.
Lastly, of course, there is a difference between the routes as well. For instance, the overseas distance between New York port and Gdynia is shorter than California port and Gdynia. Thus the costs also vary.
I have to plan my car shipment according to my schedule, can you tell me how much time does it take for a car to be shipped from the USA to Poland?
The time frame for your delivery depends on both the overland and overseas distance traveled. For the departure port, you'll have to choose the one that is the closest to the original location of the vehicle, and the same for the arrival port.
For instance, the seafaring time taken to ship a car from the New York port to Gdynia is around 15 days. However, the route connecting the California port to Gdynia takes over a month to travel across.
Thus the exact time span depends on the route taken, and of course, the period we mentioned only covers overseas travel, not over-land.
Can you give me a checklist of documents I need to ship a vehicle from the USA to Poland?
Here’s what you need:
- Vehicle registration documents from the USA
- Purchase bill/invoice detailing the car’s specs and price
- Certificate of title
- Passport
- Documented proof of ownership
- Residence permit for the location being shipped to
- If the vehicle has been used, you’ll also need to provide a declaration for that
- List of inventory
How should I prepare my car for shipping from the USA to Poland?
You need to clean the car, both the exterior and the interior, have it spick and span, and make sure that the undercarriage is free of any soil contamination. There are a lot of other things to take care of as well:
- Note the current condition of the car to compare after the shipment, i.e. take photos.
- Take off any loose components such as the stereos, GPS tracker, and so on.
- You can keep your belongings inside only if you plan on using the container shipping option, otherwise, you’ll have to take them out.
- Don’t have any toll tags or passes in the car.
- Charge the car battery.
- Check your tires for air pressure/punctures.
- Deactivate the security alarm system.
- Fill up the fuel tank only to the quarter of its full capacity, no more than that.
- If the car has any mechanical issues, report them to the shipper (documented).
- Repair the leaks, if any, or at least report them so that the shipper can take care of them.
- Secure the convertible top so that it doesn’t get damaged during the move.
- Adjust the vehicle’s fluids, i.e. the coolants and oils, based on what you anticipate weather/climate-wise for Poland.
You can, of course, save yourself lots of hassle by contacting A1 Auto Transport and letting us handle the car shipment for you.
Can US-origin vehicles be accepted in Poland as-is?
US-origin vehicles usually don’t comply with Polish regulations in their default configuration, so here’s what you can do to make them accepted in Poland:
- External light modification
- You’ll also have to adjust the exhaust pipes to meet Polish standards
- The turn signals should be orange in compliance with the traffic laws in Poland
- Changing the speedometer
You don’t necessarily have to modify these aspects before shipping, you can do these when the car reaches Poland, just don’t delay it because that way you might have to contend with extra fees and, of course, time loss.
Can you summarize the car shipment process from the USA to Poland?
If you’re new to this, here’s a summary of the whole car shipment process:
- Find out all you can about the process – you need to research the car shipment process before anything else:
- Log onto the official websites of the concerned authorities of the Polish government.
- Ensure that the vehicle complies with the import regulations of Poland.
- Or at least, find out if it can be made to comply with the Polish regulations through some modifications.
- Also, find out if you can secure a tax exemption for your case.
- Gather the documents – you’ll need the following documented evidence before you can legally ship a car from the USA to Poland:
- Vehicle registration documents
- Sales invoice/bill detailing the specs and price of the car
- Ownership proof
- Certificate of title
- And other related documents
- Understand the cost of shipping to Poland – here are the factors you need to consider:
- Freighting charges
- Insurance dues
- Storage/transport/delivery charges
- Duties and taxes
- Car cleaning/preparation fees
- Fee for the customs broker’s services
- Get a reputed car shipping company on board – the A1 Auto Transport is a well-established and trusted international car shipment company; we always strive for customer satisfaction and settle for nothing less than that.
- Shipping preparations – you’ll have to do these right:
- Select the appropriate departure and destination ports
- Clean the vehicle thoroughly and prepare it otherwise for shipping
- Ensure that none of your effects are inside the vehicle
- Opt for the shipment option most suited to your situation
- Vehicle shipment – once all the preparations are taken care of, you can ship your car.
- Arrival at the destination port
- Unpacking/import processing
- Customs clearance
- Registration – following this, you can use the car legally in Poland.
Can you summarize the customs clearance process for cars imported to Poland?
The customs clearance process is intended to verify whether the vehicle being imported is indeed of the same monetary value as has been stated on the invoice. Also, it is up to the customs officials to determine whether your case demands any exemptions to the taxes and customs duties.
Here’s what you need to clear the process:
- Original paperwork of the vehicle proving your ownership over it
- Vehicle registration documentation
- Bill/invoice, signed by the original owner (if you bought the vehicle)
- Proof of insurance coverage
- Documents necessary for importing household items (applicable to cars as well)
Once your car has cleared customs, you can collect it and then apply for registration. Please note that you can’t legally drive the vehicle on the roads of Poland unless you’ve registered it with the concerned authorities.
How can I register a new, imported vehicle in Poland?
For both new and used vehicles, you can register an imported car with the district authority wherever you’re living. You’ll need to have all of these documents with you to register your imported vehicle:
- Documented proof of ownership for the said vehicle which shows that the car was sent over from abroad.
- Documents detailing the specs/information of the imported car.
- A certificate of conformity (which shows that the vehicle meets the legal requirements for car imports in Poland).
- You’ll need proof of your payment for the Polish excise duty (or for exemption) in case your vehicle is not classified in the regular categories, i.e. for quad bikes.
- For cars imported from the USA, you’ll need to provide documented evidence of customs clearance.
How can I register a used/my own car after importing it to Poland?
For used vehicles, you can register the vehicle all the same, but you need the following documents:
- Documented proof of ownership
- Documented evidence showing that the car was transferred from abroad
- Vehicle registration documents (from the USA, if that’s where you’re importing the car from)
- Evidence signaling that the car is road-worthy
- Evidence for payment of Poland’s excise duty if your vehicle falls under the “other” category, i.e. for quad bikes
- Otherwise, you’ll need documented evidence of duty/tax exemption
- Customs clearance evidence
How can I import my own vehicle from the USA to Poland with tax/duty exemption?
If you had to relocate for your job and now want to import your car to Poland, you can skip the taxes and customs. However, there are some strict regulations in this regard that you must not violate, otherwise, the customs department will penalize you:
- You can’t sell, lend, or rent the said vehicle for one year
- You'll have to live in Poland for at least half a year following the import
- Also, your vehicle must be registered in the USA before the import
You’ll need the following documentation for getting a tax exemption:
- Insurance coverage proof
- Documents certifying your ownership over the vehicle
- A valid driver’s license
- An inventory list detailing the car’s make, model, and other relevant details
- Also, your shipment must have an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number
- Shipment valuation (signed)
- You'll also need Polish translations of the invoice, vehicle registration, and proof of ownership
In case, you don’t get an exemption (i.e. if your case does not qualify for it – new car purchase), then you’ll have to pay a 22% in value-added tax (VAT).
How much does it cost to ship a car from Baltimore to Poland?
The average cost to ship a car from Baltimore to Poland ranges from $2,195 to $3,590. This price includes shipping, port fees, and customs clearance. However, several factors can affect the total cost, such as the size and type of vehicle, the shipping method, and the insurance coverage.
Here is a breakdown of the costs:
- Shipping: $1,500 - $2,500
- Port fees: $200 - $500
- Customs clearance: $200 - $500
- Insurance: $100 - $300
Here are some factors that can affect the total cost:
- Size and type of vehicle: Larger vehicles and vehicles with special features, such as sunroofs or spoilers, will cost more to ship.
- Shipping method: Roll-on/roll-off (RORO) shipping is the most common and affordable method for shipping cars. Container shipping is more expensive, but it may be necessary for larger vehicles or vehicles that need to be in better condition.
- Insurance coverage: You can purchase insurance to protect your car from damage during shipping. The cost of insurance will depend on the value of your car and the type of coverage you choose.
How much does it cost to ship a car from New York to Poland?
The average cost to ship a car from New York to Poland ranges from $2,195 to $3,590. This cost can vary depending on the size and type of vehicle, the shipping method, and the current market conditions.
Here is a breakdown of the costs involved in shipping a car to Poland:
- Shipping: This is the largest cost and will vary depending on the shipping method. Container shipping is typically the most cost-effective option, but it can take longer than roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping. RoRo shipping is faster, but it is also more expensive.
- Customs duties and taxes: You will also be responsible for paying customs duties and taxes when you import your car into Poland. The amount of these duties will vary depending on the value of your car and the country of origin.
- Other fees: There may be other fees involved, such as port charges, inspection fees, and documentation fees.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, California, to Poland?
The cost to ship a car from Los Angeles, California, to Poland can vary depending on several factors, including the size and weight of the car, the shipping method chosen, and the current market rates. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,150 to $3,590 for shipping, plus additional fees for customs clearance and import duties.
Here is a breakdown of the average costs involved:
- Shipping: $1,150 to $3,590
- Customs clearance: $150 to $300
- Import duties: 10% of the car's value + 23% VAT
So, for example, if you are shipping a sedan valued at $10,000, you can expect to pay approximately $2,200 in total shipping costs, including customs clearance and import duties. However, if you are shipping a larger vehicle, such as an SUV or truck, you can expect to pay closer to $3,500 in total costs.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Miami to Poland?
The average cost to ship a car from Miami to Poland ranges from $2,195 to $3,590. This price includes the cost of shipping the car from Miami to Poland, as well as the cost of customs clearance and import duties.
Here is a breakdown of the costs:
- Shipping: $1,150 to $2,195
- Customs clearance: $150
- Import duties: 2.5% of the value of the vehicle + $1,500
The exact cost of shipping your car will depend on several factors, including the size and weight of your car, the shipping method you choose, and the current market rates.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Long Beach to Poland?
The average cost to ship a car from Long Beach to Poland ranges from $2,195 to $3,590. This price range is based on the following factors:
- Shipping method: The most common shipping method for cars from the US to Poland is roll-on/roll-off (RORO) shipping. This method is the most affordable, but it is also the slowest. Enclosed container shipping is a more expensive option, but it is also faster and more secure.
- Size and weight of the car: Larger and heavier cars will cost more to ship than smaller and lighter cars.
- Shipping company: Different shipping companies will have different rates. It is important to compare rates from multiple companies before you decide on a shipper.
In addition to the shipping costs, you must pay import duties and taxes when you import a car to Poland. The import duty is 10% of the car's value, and the VAT is 23%. You will also need to pay for insurance and customs clearance.
How is the price of air freight calculated when shipping from the USA to Poland?
The price of air freight when shipping from the USA to Poland is calculated based on several factors. These factors include:
1. Weight and volume: The weight and volume of the shipment play a significant role in determining the cost. Generally, air freight rates are calculated based on either the actual weight or the volumetric weight of the shipment, whichever is higher. Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the length, width, and height of the shipment and dividing the result by a volumetric factor.
2. Distance: The distance between the origin and destination also affects the price. Longer distances typically result in higher costs due to increased fuel consumption and handling charges.
3. Type of goods: The nature of the goods being shipped can impact the price. Certain goods may require special handling, packaging, or documentation, which can incur additional charges.
4. Service level: The level of service chosen, such as express or standard, can affect the price. Express services usually come at a higher cost due to faster transit times and priority handling.
5. Fuel surcharges: Air freight rates are subject to fuel surcharges that fluctuate based on the price of aviation fuel. These surcharges can vary over time and can significantly impact the overall cost.
6. Customs duties and taxes: Import duties, taxes, and other customs-related charges are not typically included in the air freight rates. These charges are usually separate and depend on the value and nature of the imported goods.
It's important to note that air freight rates can vary among different freight forwarders and airlines. It is advisable to obtain quotes from multiple providers to compare prices and services before deciding.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Houston, Texas, to Poland?
The cost of shipping a car from Houston, Texas, to Poland, can vary depending on several factors, including the size and weight of the vehicle, the shipping method, the time of year, and the current market conditions. However, as a general estimate, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,195 to $3,590 for door-to-door shipping.
Here is a breakdown of the different shipping methods and their associated costs:
- Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo): This is the most common and cost-effective method for shipping cars overseas. RoRo ships are designed to carry vehicles, and cars are simply driven onto the ship and secured. RoRo shipping from Houston to Poland typically ranges from $1,150 to $1,850.
- Container shipping: This method is more expensive than RoRo shipping, but it offers more protection for your vehicle. Cars are loaded into a container, then sealed and shipped on a cargo ship. Container shipping from Houston to Poland typically ranges from $1,850 to $2,850.
In addition to the shipping cost, you must pay for import duties and taxes when your car arrives in Poland. These duties and taxes are based on the value of the vehicle, the engine size, and the age of the vehicle. For example, you can expect to pay around 10% duty and 23% VAT on a used car imported into Poland.
What documents are needed for customs to import a car in Poland?
To import a car into Poland, the following documents are typically required for customs:
1. Vehicle Registration Certificate: This document verifies the ownership and registration of the car in the country of origin.
2. Purchase Invoice: A copy of the invoice showing the purchase price and details of the vehicle.
3. Bill of Lading: This document is issued by the shipping company and serves as proof of shipment and delivery of the car.
4. Import Declaration: A completed and signed import declaration form which provides details about the imported vehicle, its value, and other relevant information.
5. Proof of Insurance: Documentation showing that the vehicle is insured during the import process.
6. Technical Documentation: Technical specifications and information about the car, including its make, model, year of manufacture, engine capacity, and other relevant details.
7. Proof of Payment: Evidence of payment for the vehicle, such as a bank statement or receipt.
8. Valid ID: A valid identification document, such as a passport or national ID card, of the person importing the car.
9. Residence Permit: If the person importing the car is not a Polish citizen, a valid residence permit or visa may be required.
10. Certificate of Conformity: For vehicles manufactured after 1996, a Certificate of Conformity or European Certificate of Conformity (COC) may be necessary to prove compliance with European Union (EU) standards.
It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances and regulations at the time of import. It is recommended to contact the Polish customs authorities or a professional customs broker for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
How should I prepare my car for shipping from the USA to Poland?
Preparing your car for shipping from the USA to Poland involves several important steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process. Here are some guidelines to follow:
1. Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, such as the vehicle's title, registration, and insurance papers. Make sure they are up-to-date and valid.
2. Clean the car: Thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior of your car before shipping. This will help the inspection process and prevent potential issues during customs clearance.
3. Remove personal belongings: Remove all personal items from the car, including loose accessories, electronics, and valuable items. The shipping company is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal belongings left inside the vehicle.
4. Check for damages: Inspect your car for any existing damages and take clear pictures from different angles. This will serve as evidence in case of any disputes regarding the vehicle's condition upon arrival.
5. Disable car alarms: Disable or deactivate any car alarms or anti-theft devices to prevent them from being triggered during transportation.
6. Check the battery: Ensure the car is fully charged and in good condition. It should be able to start the vehicle upon arrival in Poland.
7. Check fluids and tire pressure: Ensure all fluids (engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, etc.) are at appropriate levels. Additionally, check the tire pressure and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
8. Fuel level: Keep the fuel tank at approximately a quarter full. This is sufficient for loading and unloading the vehicle but reduces the risk of any leakage during transportation.
9. Mechanical inspection: Get a thorough mechanical inspection of your car done by a trusted mechanic. This will help identify any existing issues and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before shipping.
10. Choose a reliable shipping company: Research and select a reputable international car shipping company specializing in transporting vehicles to Poland. Ensure they have proper licensing and insurance coverage.
11. Insurance: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for your vehicle during transportation. This will provide extra protection in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
12. Customs requirements: Familiarize yourself with the customs requirements and regulations in Poland regarding vehicle importation. Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork and understand the associated costs, taxes, and duties.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your car is well-prepared for shipping from the USA to Poland, minimizing any potential issues and ensuring a smooth transportation process.
What is the transit time for shipping a car from the USA to Poland?
The transit time for shipping a car from the USA to Poland typically ranges from 15 to 28 days. This timeframe can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Shipping method: Ocean freight is the most common and cost-effective option, but it also takes the longest. Air freight is considerably faster but more expensive.
- Departure port: The closer your car is to an East Coast port, the shorter the transit time. Shipments from the West Coast may take an additional 5-7 days.
- Destination port: Gdynia is the most popular destination for car shipments to Poland. Shipments to other ports may take slightly longer.
- Customs clearance: Once your car arrives in Poland, it must clear customs before it can be released. This process can add a few days to the overall transit time.
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