Your Complete Guide to International Vehicle Shipping Services

Navigating the world of international vehicle shipping can seem daunting. Whether you’re moving abroad, purchasing a classic car overseas, or relocating for work, understanding your options is the first step to a seamless experience. This definitive guide outlines all the services we offer and the essential procedures you need to know.

Table of Contents

Our Range of Shipping Services

We provide tailored solutions to meet every need and budget.

Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) Shipping
- The most common and cost-effective method for operational vehicles.
- You drive your vehicle onto a specialised vessel, and it’s driven off at the destination port.
- Ideal for cars, SUVs, 4x4s, and vans that are in full working order.
Container Shipping
- Offers superior protection from the elements and potential damage.
- Shared Container: You share the space and cost with other vehicles, a great middle-ground option.
- Dedicated Container: The entire container is for your use alone. Perfect for high-value cars, vehicles with personal effects, or multiple vehicles.
Specialist Vehicle Shipping
- Motorbikes: Securely crated and shipped via container.
- Motorhomes & Caravans: Shipped via RORO or dedicated container, depending on size and condition.
- Machinery: Non-operational plant machinery and agricultural equipment are expertly loaded into containers.

Understanding Your Reason for Export

The purpose of your shipment affects the required paperwork and potential tax liabilities.

Reason for Export	Description	Key Consideration
Permanent Export	You are selling the vehicle or moving abroad permanently.	You must permanently export the vehicle from the UK records using the V5C logbook. You may be liable for import duties and taxes in the destination country.
Transfer of Residence	You are moving your personal household effects, including a vehicle, to a new country of residence.	This can offer significant duty and tax exemptions in the destination country. Proof of residency change (e.g., visa, work permit) is required.
Temporary Import	You are taking the vehicle abroad for a limited time (e.g., holiday, exhibition).	The vehicle must be re-imported within a set period. A Carnet de Passage may be required to temporarily avoid duties.

Paperwork, Permits, and Inspections

Proper documentation is critical for a smooth customs clearance.

UK Paperwork (Required at Departure)

Original Vehicle Registration Document (V5C): This is essential. You will send the export section (V5C/4) to the DVLA.
Proof of Ownership: Invoice or bill of sale.
Copy of Your Passport: For identification purposes.
Letter of Authority: If someone else is handling the shipment on your behalf.

Destination Port Paperwork (Required for Import)

Bill of Lading: The contract of carriage and title document for the goods.
Commercial Invoice: Declaring the value of the vehicle.
Customs Forms: Specific to the destination country.

Inspections & Permits

Pre-shipment Inspection: Some countries require a pre-export inspection to verify the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and condition.
Import Permits: Many countries require an import permit or approval before the vehicle arrives. We will advise you on where and how to obtain this for your specific destination.
Phytosanitary Certificate: Required for some countries if the vehicle has been used in rural areas, to prove it is free of soil and contaminants.

Why Do People Ship Vehicles?

Individuals and businesses ship vehicles for numerous reasons:

Relocating Abroad: Taking your personal or family car to your new home.
Classic & Luxury Car Collectors: Sourcing unique vehicles from around the world.
Foreign Assignments: Taking your vehicle for a multi-year work assignment.
Online Auctions: Purchasing a vehicle from international online marketplaces.
Retiring Abroad: Moving your belongings and vehicle to your retirement destination.
Racing & Events: Transporting competition vehicles for international events.

Cost Breakdown: What You’re Paying For

The final price is composed of several elements:

Freight Charge: The core cost of the sea voyage (RORO or Container).
Port Fees: Handling charges at both the UK port of departure and the destination port.
Documentation & Handling Fees: Our fee for managing the entire process and paperwork.
Customs Clearance Fees: Charges for handling import formalities at the destination.
Transport to Port: If you require us to collect your vehicle.
Cleaning: Some ports mandate a professional clean to prevent biosecurity risks.

Vehicle Preparation & Collection

Collection: We can collect your vehicle from anywhere in the UK using a transporter or a trade plate driver. The vehicle must have a valid MOT and be fully operational for this service.
Preparation is Key: A well-prepared vehicle avoids delays and damage.

Important Restrictions & Prohibited Items

For safety and security, the following are strictly prohibited from being shipped inside your vehicle:

Flammable, explosive, or corrosive materials (e.g., fuel over ¼ tank, aerosols, paint).
Personal belongings, unless in a sealed container shipment and declared.
Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, firearms, and ammunition.
Perishable foods and plants.
Any high-value personal items like jewellery, cash, or passports.

Note on Vehicle Condition: For RORO shipping, the vehicle must be operational. For container or shared container shipping, the vehicle does not need to be working.

Electric & Hybrid Vehicles: These can be shipped but require specific declarations and sometimes additional safety checks due to their lithium-ion batteries.

Duty & Tax

This is a complex area and varies by country. You will be liable to pay import duty, taxes (like VAT or GST), and other fees to the customs authority of the destination country upon arrival. The cost is typically a percentage of the vehicle’s declared value. “Transfer of Residence” often provides relief from these costs, subject to conditions.

Conclusion:

To sum up, Ship Cars Ltd has established itself as a reliable and forward-thinking player in the vehicle shipping industry. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, the company continues to deliver high-quality transport solutions across both local and international markets. As demand for trusted vehicle logistics grows, ShipCars Ltd remains committed to innovation and excellence, positioning itself for continued growth and long-term success.