Moving some where overseas and wanting to bring your car along? Or maybe you’re
looking to expand your business by offering vehicle exports? Either way, arranging to ship
a vehicle internationally can be a complex process, but with the right planning and knowledge on your side, it can be managed smoothly.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about overseas vehicle shipping,
including the documentation needed, best practices and what to look for in a trusted
vehicle shipping provider.
So you’ve decided you want to ship your vehicle overseas, but now you must choose your
preferred shipping method for doing this. Most international vehicle shipments are made
via sea freight as this is the most practical and cost-effective method. Air freight can be
used to transport vehicles internationally however it’s expensive and comes with its
limitations, usually reserved for high-value cars and urgent deliveries.
There are various options available that each come with their own advantages and
disadvantages.
RoRo shipping involves driving your vehicle on a vessel that is designed to specifically
carry cars and other motorised vehicles and cargo. Opting for this method of
transportation is often faster and more cost-effective as it doesn’t require any additional
handling in loading and unloading from a container.
Shipping vehicles via this method however means that cars are exposed to the elements
and their surroundings during transit rather than the added protection a container offers.
This can be a concern to some owners.
Container shipping involves loading your vehicle directly into a secure container, which is then loaded onto a ship. Many prefer to use this method of shipping as it offers more protection against the elements and potential damage to the vehicle.
Typically however, this method comes at a much higher cost than RoRo shipping as you pay for the entire shipping container and there’s more handling processes involved.
To ensure a smooth and seamless car shipping experience, you must prepare the correct required documentation.
Firstly, you’ll need your log book (V5C) to prove your ownership, you will also need to provide all of the necessary information about the (registration, model and make, engine number). Sometimes a copy of the purchase receipt of the vehicle is required along with a copy of your most recent MOT certificate and your passport or photo ID.
This information is used to complete the shipping note, a crucial document that outlines the details of your vehicle’s shipment. It’s important that all of the information on the shipping note is correct to prevent delays, complications or extra fees. A bill of lading document is also prepared to serve as a receipt for the cargo and as a contract between you and the shipping company.
Shipping method and documentation sorted, now it’s time to prepare your vehicle for shipment. Remove any personal belongings from the vehicle, leaving behind just the essentials such as an emergency kit, spare tyre and car jack. Take clear and thorough pictures of your vehicle before submitting it for export to record any pre-existing damage such as paint chips, scratches and dents. This will help in making sure no extra damage has occurred to the vehicle during transit.
Before export, make sure your car is in good working order. Fix any mechanical issues before delivery and ensure fluids are topped up and your tire pressure is okay. It’s recommended to leave about a quarter of a tank of petrol in your car to ensure there’s adequate fuel for loading and unloading the vehicle.
The cost of shipping a vehicle overseas can vary depending on several factors;
It’s also important to consider additional services that may be required such as insurance, customs fees and port charges. You may find that you need to store your vehicle in a warehouse before shipping, providing extra costs.
One of the most important steps in overseas vehicle shipping is partnering with the right shipping company to ensure smooth, safe and timely delivery of your car. Look for a company that has vast freight forwarding experience, a good reputation and positive reviews.
Additionally, look for a freight forwarder that offers real-time tracking services so you can monitor the progress of your shipment for peace of mind.
At Jenkar Shipping, we provide international vehicle shipping services that you can trust. With over 45 years of experience in the freight forwarding industry, we have well established our position in providing seamless and reliable international shipping solutions. We have a global network of partners, giving us access to competitive rates and a reliable service to destinations worldwide.
Our expert team works hard to provide our customers with a hassle-free experience, handling all of the necessary documentation, logistics and insurance. Our aim is to give you peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe hands, so you can sit back and relax knowing that every detail is being managed.
Whether it’s a classic car, motorcycle or heavy machinery, we treat everything with the utmost care and dedication. Get in touch with a member of our friendly team to begin your vehicle shipping quote today and experience the difference Jenkar can provide.
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