A car is often the most valuable single item in a move, and one of the most regulated. Whether you are shipping a family car, a motorcycle or a classic, these are the choices, the preparation and the paperwork to understand before you start.
Two ways to ship a vehicle
Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) means the car is driven onto a specialist vessel, like a ferry for vehicles, and driven off at the destination. It is generally the simpler and cheaper option, but the car must run and is exposed to the elements on deck at ports. Personal belongings usually cannot be left inside.
Container shipping means the car is loaded into a container and secured. It is protected from the weather and handling, and some shipments allow household goods to travel in the same container. It is usually more expensive than RoRo. We load containers at your residence where access allows, or at our facility. See our car storage and loading page.
Is it worth shipping?
Compare the cost of shipping and the import charges in your new country with the value of the car and what a comparable car would cost there. Some countries add substantial import duties and taxes, and many have emission and safety standards that a US-specification vehicle may not meet without modification. Some also limit the age of imported vehicles. Check the rules before you decide, and consider our guide on what to ship, sell or store.
How to prepare your car
- Wash it and photograph it from every angle, inside and out, before it is collected.
- Remove personal items, toll tags and anything that is not part of the car.
- Keep the fuel tank low, as shippers usually limit how much fuel it may contain.
- Note any warning lights or mechanical problems and tell your coordinator.
- Make sure the battery, tires and brakes are in good working order.
Documents
You will typically need proof of ownership such as the title and registration, photo identification and, if the car is financed, written permission from the lender. Export rules require vehicle documents to be submitted ahead of shipping, and the destination country will require its own import paperwork. Your coordinator guides you through both; more on the process is on our car and motorcycle shipping page.
Insurance
Ask exactly what is covered while the vehicle is on a ship and in port, and whether you need additional coverage. See moving insurance for the basics.
Motorcycles and classic cars
Motorcycles are secured on pallets or in crates, and classic or valuable cars are best shipped in a container. Tell your coordinator early so we can plan the right method, and think about storage if the car will wait for shipping.
Shipping a vehicle with your household
If you are moving a whole household, shipping the car at the same time keeps everything on one schedule and with one company. Our moving timeline shows when to start planning it.
Frequently asked questions
Can I leave personal belongings in my car?
With roll-on/roll-off shipping, usually not. With container shipping it may be possible, depending on the arrangement. Ask your coordinator before packing the car.
How much fuel should be in the tank?
Shippers usually require a low fuel level. Ask your coordinator for the limit that applies to your shipment.
What documents do I need?
Typically proof of ownership such as the title and registration, photo identification and, if the car is financed, written permission from the lender. Your coordinator guides you through the export and import paperwork.
Plan your move with SK Worldwide
Our own crews, our own warehouse in New Jersey and one coordinator for your whole move. Request a quote, call (800) 238-8770, or list your rooms with our online self survey.
