Ship Car To Sao Miguel Island

Car Shipping San Miguel Island

Locally called the ‘Green Island,’ San Miguel in the Azores is the largest and has the highest population density. It is known for its natural beauty; many people want to retire or work here. This makes exploring the area by vehicle a convenient option. Thus, if you are moving from the USA to San Miguel in the Azores, it isn’t challenging to move your vehicle. You can also explore the island and the surrounding areas with leisure when you can commute at your own will. Irrespective of whether you are a returning citizen, diplomat, or on a work permit, having your vehicle will be advantageous. As it is a tropical area, there is higher moisture, and during the rainy season, it can take a toll on the roads. Additionally, your vehicle would need higher maintenance.

However, before you move to San Miguel Island, it is essential to talk with an experienced moving agent from A1 AT service, so that you are clear about the budget and requirements. It can be a tedious process, but it is well worth it. You might need to check with the Azores Embassy to learn more about the latest import laws and regulations. Most of the EU countries have stringent emission laws, and before you import to the Azores islands, it is better to get the required modifications done so the vehicle can pass the inspections.

You must submit essential documents verifying you as the vehicle owner and making the move valid. These include:

• Bill of Lading.
• Bill of sale/ purchase invoice.
• VAT NR.
• Lien-free title deed.
• Insurance.
• Proof of address.
• Passport.
• Work permit/visa of owner.
• Approval from Direcçao Geral dos Impostos.
• Valid driving license.

The method of sending the vehicle directly affects the cost. RORO is cheap, while container hauling is expensive. However, you might not consider the price if an expensive car needs an extra protection layer. If this is the case, hire a container and then relax as we handle the cargo. There are no specific restrictions; you can also use the container to ship your household goods. This is why it is more expensive.

RORO, on the other hand, is cheap and requires adherence to carrying regulations. You are not allowed to put any personal items inside the vehicle. You need to leave minimum fuel in the tank, remove the air conditioning gas, and put the car jack, spare tire, and floor mats inside the car. You only pay for an open parking slot that you have been assigned on the ship. The vehicle is driven on/off the boat.

As per the Azores Customs Department, the import duty is charged 16% based on the current market price of the vehicle. Then, VAT surcharges on all cars are calculated accordingly. You can use the vehicle with foreign registration and license plates for only 180 days. After the lapse of the time frame, you are required to get the license plates and local driving license by contacting the Direcção-Geral de Viação. Before receiving the local license tags, the vehicle must clear all mandatory EU tests. If the vehicle fails to qualify for these, you must pay and get the required modifications done. When you are budgeting for the move, add the license fee you are to pay to get the Portuguese license plates.