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International Car Shipping: Understanding the Laws and Costs Involved
If you are relocating to a different country and wish to transport your car, you should know the laws governing the international car shipping industry and the expenses you will incur while utilizing the services offer by different car shipping companies.
Laws and Regulations Involved in Overseas Car Shipping
There are several rules and regulations that have to be adhered to when transporting the car overseas, and the transportation company you choose will be able to advise you on the same. As a general guideline, there should be a sufficient amount, but not too much of fuel left in the vehicle. The car should be stored underneath the deck of the transporting ship and it should be in working condition. The vehicle should also be kept empty. Upon arrival at the destination, the car and all its contents must clear customs and inspection. Your vehicle will be allowed to enter the port of destination and driven to the loading dock only if all the import laws and shipping regulations are met. You can then collect the car from the loading dock once it passes inspections.
Documents Required
There are various documents that have to be submitted to the customs authorities, and although they vary from country to country, some are common to all countries. The original title and keys should accompany the car. The owner should provide a certificate that states that the car is in working condition. If the car is under a loan, a letter of permission from the lender has to be provided. The car should also be insured while being shipped. Generally, the amount of insurance that has to be purchased is $10,000. You should keep all the receipts for any new merchandise at hand, as these can be required by customs. All the documents are checked at the port of destination. If everything is not in order, the car is not allowed to enter the port.
Costs Involved in International Car Shipping
The shipping rates depend on the country of departure and the destination selected. If there is a large amount of traffic between these 2 countries, you can get attractive shipping rates due to the volume of return traffic. The rates are also dependent on the size and weight of your vehicle. The mode of transport will also affect the cost. If you opt for roll/on roll off service, you can take advantage of cheap car transport as opposed to shipping the car in a container. Other expenses include collection charges. These are charged by the company for collecting your car from your home to the port of departure. Car shipping insurance is another cost you will have to add to your total expenditure. Since there is a lot of competition amongst auto transportation companies, you can get a better rate if you negotiate. Shipping rates can also vary according to fluctuating oil prices, changes in currency rates and the amount of cars being shipped between the 2 countries.
Before shipping your car overseas, it’s advisable to check with the consulate of the destination country about any levies or restrictions that may be imposed. You should also obtain information on duties and policies that can affect the shipment.
