Part of our Shipping Methods guide
Shipping a Car Overseas When You Move
Roll-on/roll-off versus container shipping, the U.S. Customs export rules, and destination import steps.
Short answer
To ship a car overseas you choose roll-on/roll-off (RoRo), where the car is driven onto a vehicle ship, or a container, alone or alongside household goods. U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires the vehicle and its original certificate of title to be presented at least 72 hours before export by sea or air. At the destination you will need customs clearance and local registration, and some countries such as Australia require an import approval before the car ships.
RoRo vs container
| Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) | Container | |
|---|---|---|
| How it travels | Driven onto a vehicle carrier and parked on a deck | Loaded and braced inside a 20- or 40-foot container |
| Personal items inside the car | Usually not allowed | Household goods can share a container if the mover allows |
| Protection | Exposed to the ship's deck environment | Sealed and protected |
| Best for | A running car on a common RoRo route | Valuable or classic cars, or combining with a household move |
U.S. export rules
- Present the vehicle and the required documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection at least 72 hours before export by vessel or aircraft.
- CBP reviews the original certificate of title (19 CFR 192.2) to confirm ownership and that the vehicle is not stolen.
- Your mover or freight forwarder usually handles the export filing; ask what they need from you and by when.
Source: CBP: exporting a motor vehicle.
Destination import steps
- UK: a car you owned and used for 6 months can be included in Transfer of Residence relief, then registered with the DVLA. See GOV.UK: importing vehicles.
- EU countries: a personal car is usually covered by removal-goods relief if you meet the ownership and residence conditions, then registered locally. See each country guide.
- Australia: an import approval is needed before the car ships.
- New Zealand: vehicles have separate entry, compliance and duty rules.
Before you book
- Check that the car can be registered at your destination; emissions and safety rules differ.
- Ask whether the quote includes destination port charges, customs clearance and delivery.
- Clean the car inside and out; Australia and New Zealand inspect for soil.
- Keep the original title, registration and purchase papers ready.
Back to the main guide: Shipping Methods.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I book car shipping?
Allow time for the 72-hour CBP document review before departure and any destination import approval. Australia's approval must be in hand before the car ships.
Can I pack belongings in my car for shipping?
Usually not on RoRo. In a container, some movers allow household goods alongside the car; ask first.
Is my car included in duty-free relief?
Often, in the UK and EU, if you owned and used it for at least 6 months and meet the residence conditions. Registration is still required.
Get free quotes from licensed movers
One short form for International Moving Company. Pick items from the inventory list or upload a quick video walkthrough. Your request is shared with Sunset International Shipping, Shepherd International Movers, Schmidt International Relocations and My International Movers so you can compare their quotes. Free, no obligation.