Ship Car to St. Thomas with Reliable U.S. Virgin Islands Transport


Do you want to ship your vehicle from the USA to St. Thomas?
Shipping A Car To St. Thomas
Typical Shipping Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- Typical shipping costs for transporting a car from the U.S. to St. Thomas range from $1,600 to $3,600.
- Costs will vary based on the vehicle's type, size, weight, and point of origin within the United States.
St. Thomas is one of the islands contributing to the archipelago, the US Virgin Islands. Because it is a US territory, the rules and regulations regarding importing a vehicle from the US are not nearly as stringent as those for shipping overseas internationally. However, it is still crucial that you work with a reputable auto export company to ensure the smoothest process possible.
Determining whether or not it is cost-effective to ship your car to St. Thomas is in your best interest. Transportation throughout the island can be challenging without a vehicle, as public transportation is minimal and taxis are expensive. There is also a significant dealer markup on cars sold on the island, so you will probably find that as long as your car can handle the somewhat rough terrain of St. Thomas, it is worthwhile to bring it with you.

Required Documents For Dispatching A Vehicle
- Current Registration
- Bill of Lading
- Vehicle Title (or notarized permission from lien holder allowing the vehicle’s transport)
- Current US Driver’s License
- Bill of Sale/Commercial Invoice (if available)
- Passport
- Proof of registration
Steps of Procedure:
- After arriving with your vehicle in St. Thomas, you must pass through Customs. No duty fees will be owed if your car is manufactured in the United States. If you are unsure, check the VIN. VINs beginning with 1, 4, or 5 are from the US and, therefore, are not obligated to pay duty. If the VIN starts with 2 or 3, the duty is 6% of the vehicle’s value as determined by either the bill of sale or the current blue book calculation. If the VIN begins with six or a letter, the duty is 3.5% of the vehicle’s value.
- You must now bring the Bill of Lading provided by your shipping company (www.a1autotransport.com) to the Internal Revenue Office (http://www.vibir.gov/) to pay the road tax, which is currently 16 cents per pound (vehicle weight). Please keep your receipt; you will need it to register your vehicle.
- Before you can move your vehicle from the dock, you will need to obtain auto insurance. After your insurance is in place, you must request a moving permit from the Department of Motored Vehicles (http://www.usvibmv.org/). The fee for this permit is $5 and will allow you to transport an unregistered vehicle to the DMV to complete an inspection and proceed with registration.
- The vehicle must then pass an inspection by the DMV before you can register it. You must present all the previous documents in the shipping procedure, including proof of insurance.

You can use your stateside driver’s license for a grace period of 90 days to allow you time to obtain a valid Virgin Islands driver’s license. To get your new license, you will only need to trade in your current stateside permit and not be required to take any tests.
Because St. Thomas is considered a US territory, the official language is English. Shipping your vehicle can be a breeze without a language barrier. Enlist the help and support of a great auto transport company, and ALWAYS remember to drive on the left.
Understanding Vehicle Import Requirements in St. Thomas
Importing a vehicle into St. Thomas involves specific requirements to ensure compliance with local regulations. Vehicles must meet U.S. emission standards and pass a safety inspection upon arrival. A road tax of $0.16 per pound applies to all imported vehicles. It's essential to have the original title and proof of ownership ready for customs clearance. Engaging with a knowledgeable shipping company can help navigate these requirements smoothly.
Navigating Driving Conditions in St. Thomas
Driving in St. Thomas presents unique challenges due to its terrain and road infrastructure. The island's roads are often narrow and winding and may lack shoulders, requiring drivers to be cautious and alert. Additionally, vehicles drive on the left side of the road, which can be an adjustment for those accustomed to right-side driving. Understanding these conditions is crucial for a safe driving experience on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to ship a car to St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands?
You must provide the original vehicle title, a government-issued photo ID, and a notarized bill of sale if the car was recently purchased. Vehicles with liens require written lienholder authorization for export. Most carriers also request a completed shipping authorization form. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the top cause of port delays, especially for first-time US Virgin Islands shipments. For broader requirements, see international car shipping.
How long does it take to ship a car to St. Thomas from the mainland?
Transit time averages 14 to 25 days from pickup to port arrival in St. Thomas. Florida sailings are the fastest due to frequent schedules, while West Coast shipments take longer. Weather systems in the Atlantic and port congestion can add several days. Ocean transit itself is usually under a week once the vehicle is loaded.
How much does it cost to ship a car to St. Thomas?
Shipping a car to St. Thomas typically costs between $1,600 and $3,500 from the mainland U.S. Price is driven by departure port, vehicle size, roll-on roll-off vs container, and seasonal demand. Florida ports are usually the most affordable. You can estimate pricing ranges using the A1 car shipping rates guide before booking.
Can I use door-to-door car shipping to St. Thomas?
Yes. Most shipments use door-to-port service, where the vehicle is picked up at your location and delivered to the departure port. Full door-to-door delivery on the island is limited by port access and local carriers. Door-to-port is the most common and cost-efficient option. Learn how this works through A1’s door-to-door auto transport service.
What taxes and port fees apply when importing a car to St. Thomas?
The U.S. Virgin Islands charges a road tax of about $0.16 per pound based on vehicle weight. There is no federal import duty for U.S.-manufactured vehicles, but foreign-made cars may face additional duties. You should also budget for port handling and documentation fees collected at arrival.
What shipping methods are available for cars going to St. Thomas?
The most common option is roll-on roll-off shipping, where the vehicle is driven onto the vessel. Container shipping is available for high-value or non-running vehicles but costs more. Vehicle condition, clearance height, and protection needs determine the best method. Ocean-only transport details are outlined on international car shipping by sea.

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