Are you thinking about taking your vehicle across the Atlantic? Whether you’re relocating, planning an extended stay, or selling your car abroad, shipping a car from the USA to Europe is a practical option. This complete guide walks you through everything you need to know, from shipping methods and estimated costs to required paperwork and FAQs.
How Does Overseas Car Transport Work?
International car shipping from the USA involves several steps. It starts with choosing a licensed shipping company, preparing your vehicle, and ensuring you have the right documents. Here’s how it works:
1. Choose a Reputable Auto Transport Company
Look for companies experienced in international car shipping. Make sure they are licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and provide marine insurance options.
2. Select a Shipping Method
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): Your car is driven onto and off the vessel. It’s budget-friendly and widely available.
- Container Shipping: Offers more protection and allows for personal items to be shipped with the vehicle. Ideal for high-value, luxury, or classic cars.
3. Pick a U.S. and European Port
Popular U.S. ports:
- New York, NY
- Baltimore, MD
- Miami, FL
- Los Angeles, CA
Common European ports:
- Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Bremerhaven, Germany
- Antwerp, Belgium
- Barcelona, Spain
- Southampton, UK
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Europe?
The cost to ship a car from the USA to Europe depends on various factors:
| Factor | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| RoRo Shipping | $800 – $1,500 |
| Container Shipping (Shared) | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Container Shipping (Solo) | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Destination Fees (customs, unloading, VAT) | $300 – $1,000+ |
Other cost factors include:
- Vehicle size/weight
- Distance to port of departure
- Type of car (e.g., SUV, sedan, luxury)
- Season and demand
- Destination country import taxes
What Documents Do You Need?
To export a car from the USA to Europe, prepare the following documents:
- Original vehicle title (free of liens, or with lienholder’s permission)
- Passport or photo ID
- Bill of Sale (if newly purchased)
- Export declaration from the shipping company
- Insurance certificate
- Import approval or customs forms (depending on destination country)
Each European country has its own regulations. For example:
- Germany may require a TÜV inspection.
- Spain often requires vehicle homologation.
- France may charge CO₂-based environmental fees.
Step-by-Step Car Shipping Process
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the overseas car transport process:
Step 1: Get a Quote
Contact international car shipping companies and request quotes based on your vehicle type, destination, and preferred shipping method.
Step 2: Book the Shipment & Prepare the Vehicle
- Wash and inspect the vehicle
- Remove personal belongings (unless using container shipping)
- Leave only 1/4 tank of gas
- Disable alarms
- Note any existing damage
Step 3: Drop Off or Schedule Pickup
Transport your vehicle to the nearest port, or arrange for pickup by a carrier (for an extra fee).
Step 4: Customs Documentation
Submit required documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 72 hours before export.
Step 5: Vehicle is Loaded & Shipped
Depending on your chosen method, your vehicle is either rolled onto the vessel (RoRo) or secured in a container.
Step 6: Arrival & Clearance in Europe
After the ship docks, your car goes through customs clearance at the destination port.
Step 7: Final Delivery or Local Pickup
You can pick up your car at the port or have it delivered to your final destination.
Is Insurance Included?
Most international car shipping companies offer basic marine insurance, typically covering up to a set amount (e.g., $500 per vehicle). However, this may not reflect your car’s actual value.
It’s wise to purchase comprehensive marine insurance for added protection against theft, loss, or damage during transit.
Top Countries for Car Shipping from the U.S.
Some of the most popular European destinations for car shipping from the U.S. include:
- Germany
- Netherlands
- United Kingdom
- France
- Spain
- Italy
Each country has its own import tax laws and registration processes, so make sure to do some destination-specific research.
FAQ: Shipping a Car from the USA to Europe
1. What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Europe from the USA?
RoRo shipping is the most cost-effective option, with prices starting around $800. It’s ideal for standard vehicles and has regular departures to major European ports.
2. How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Europe?
Transit times range from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the departure and destination ports, weather, and customs processing.
3. Can I ship a financed or leased vehicle to Europe?
Yes, but you’ll need written permission from the lienholder. You must provide the original title or a notarized copy, along with a letter of authorization.
4. Do I have to pay taxes or import duties in Europe?
Yes. Most European countries charge Value-Added Tax (VAT) between 17% and 25%, and may also require vehicle registration and environmental fees.
5. Can I ship personal items inside my vehicle?
Only with container shipping. RoRo prohibits personal belongings due to customs restrictions and security risks.
6. Is my car insured during international shipping?
Basic insurance is usually included, but coverage is limited. Opt for additional marine cargo insurance to fully protect your vehicle.
7. Which ports are best for shipping a car to Europe?
Top destination ports include Rotterdam, Antwerp, Bremerhaven, Barcelona, and Southampton.
Final Thoughts
Shipping a car from the USA to Europe doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation, trustworthy shipping partner, and understanding of the process, your vehicle can arrive safely and affordably.
Always get multiple quotes, understand local import rules, and prepare your documents ahead of time.
