Shipping a Car from USA to Europe
Shipping a car from USA to Europe involves moving a vehicle across the Atlantic by ocean freight, preparing it for export, handling customs in both countries, and arranging final delivery. Costs vary widely based on the vehicle size, shipping method, departure and arrival ports, and the time of year. The process typically takes several weeks from pickup to door delivery, and importing the car into Europe often triggers duties, taxes, and compliance checks that differ by country.
More from this site
Keep reading the latest coverage
Shipping Methods
There are two primary ocean shipping options for vehicles. Roll-on/Roll-off, known as RoRo, requires the car to be driven onto a specialized vessel and secured on deck. It is generally the most affordable method but exposes the vehicle to weather and limits what can be shipped, such as non-running cars or oversized equipment. Container shipping places the car inside a locked steel container, offering greater protection and the ability to ship personal belongings alongside the vehicle, at a higher price.
Roll-on/Roll-Off (RoRo)
- Lowest cost for standard passenger vehicles.
- Vehicle must be operational and drivable onto the vessel.
- Deck exposure means possible weather or salt damage.
- Limited availability for oversized or heavily modified cars.
Container Shipping
- Higher cost, typically 30 to 60 percent more than RoRo.
- Enclosed protection from weather and theft.
- Allows shipping of non-running cars with a flatbed tow.
- Can accommodate personal items inside the container.
Cost Breakdown
The price to ship a car from USA to Europe is shaped by several factors. Vehicle size and weight are the biggest drivers, with large SUVs, trucks, and luxury models costing more than compact sedans. The shipping route matters as well; common departure ports include New York, Baltimore, and Savannah, while popular European arrival points are Bremerhaven, Rotterdam, and Southampton. Seasonal demand also affects rates, with peak volumes in spring and early summer pushing prices higher.
| Factor | Impact on Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle size and weight | Larger vehicles cost more | SUVs, trucks, and luxury models have higher rates |
| Shipping method | RoRo is cheaper; container is pricier | Container adds protection and flexibility |
| Departure and arrival ports | Varies by route | East Coast US to Northern Europe is common |
| Time of year | Peak season raises rates | Spring and early summer are busiest |
| Door-to-port vs. door-to-door | Door-to-door adds final leg cost | Port-to-port is the base shipping price |
Budgeting for the full journey means looking beyond the ocean freight quote. You will also pay export documentation fees, port handling charges, marine insurance, customs brokerage in the destination country, and potential VAT or import duty. These additional costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the European country of import.
Required Documentation
Exporting a car from the United States requires a clear vehicle title, a bill of lading issued by the shipping line, and an export declaration. The exporting carrier or a licensed customs broker typically handles the export documentation, but the vehicle owner should confirm that the title is in their name and free of liens. For import into Europe, you will need the vehicle title or a certificate of destruction if the car is over a certain age, the original bill of lading, a commercial invoice describing the vehicle, and proof of ownership. Many countries also require a certificate of conformity or a national type-approval for the vehicle to be registered.
Customs and Import Regulations
Each European country sets its own rules for importing a vehicle. Most EU member states require payment of import VAT, which is often reclaimable if you are relocating and meet residency requirements. Import duty is typically a percentage of the vehicle's customs value, including shipping costs. Vehicles older than a certain age, often around 30 years, may qualify for exemption from certain taxes and safety inspections, but this varies by country and is not automatic.
Key Compliance Points
- Emissions and safety standards differ by country; some vehicles may need modifications.
- Right-hand drive vehicles face restrictions or extra modifications in some left-hand drive countries.
- Temporary import papers allow driving the car for a limited period before permanent registration.
- VAT refund processes require proof of residency and a completed registration timeline.
Timeline and Transit Times
Ocean transit from the US East Coast to Northern Europe typically takes two to four weeks. Door-to-door service, which includes ground transport to the departure port, the ocean crossing, and delivery from the arrival port, usually adds another one to two weeks. Container shipping may take slightly longer than RoRo due to terminal handling and container loading schedules. Delays from weather, port congestion, or customs inspections can extend the total timeline by days or weeks.
Preparing Your Vehicle
Before shipping, the car should be cleaned inside and out, which helps with inspection at both ends. Remove all personal belongings, as carriers have strict rules against items left in the vehicle. Disable the alarm to prevent unnecessary battery drain during transit. Have the fuel level at around one-quarter full, as this is a common carrier requirement. Take detailed photos of the vehicle from multiple angles before handover, and keep the bill of lading and any condition reports in a safe place for insurance claims and customs verification.