Car Shippers In Washington

When To Hire Car Shippers For An Overseas Move

Moving overseas can be exciting, but often requires plenty of planning―especially if you are considering bringing your car. Before you hire car shippers to transport your vehicle, consider the following:

• Does the cost of shipping a car fit in your budget?

• What are the costs of owning a car in the new location?

• What is the cost of buying a comparable vehicle after the move?

• What are the transportation options in the new location?

If shipping a car makes the most sense, continue reading for info on required documents, shopping online, legal obstacles and more. But if you are still on the fence, spend some time listing the pros and cons of car shipping, calculating expenses and researching options such as selling your car in the states and then buying another vehicle once you move. For those moving to Europe where cars are smaller and more fuel efficient, transporting an automobile from the US might cost you more in the long run.

Shop Online For Affordable Auto Transporters

Many car shippers offer online quotes. The trick is knowing which services best meet your needs. For example, port-to-port car shippers will guide you through the process with the least amount of handling on your part. If you can afford the expense, this option might be worth your while in the long run.

Also consider that car shipping costs aren’t solely based on distance and destination; the size and weight of your car play a significant role. Plus, you’ll need to factor in customs duty, sales tax and port handling charges.

Once you gather enough quotes to narrow down your choices, consider consulting the Better Business Bureau to research any complaints filed with a particular automobile transporter. The more info you gather before you make your final decision, the better.

Requirements For Exporting A Used Vehicle

You must provide US Customs with the following:

• Documentation describing the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or Product Identification Number (PIN)

• Original Certificate of Title or Salvage Title, or a certified copy of the original (learn more on ordering a duplicate title)

• For leased vehicles or those with a lien, submit a signed and dated letter on company letterhead from the third-party-in interest that expressly states that the vehicle can be exported. The letter must include a complete description of the car, VIN, the name of the owner or lienholder of the leased vehicle and contact phone numbers.

New cars that haven’t been titled can be exported as long as you provide the manufacturer's statement of origin (submit the original document along with two copies to Customs). This is something your car dealership can obtain.

For foreign-titled vehicles, you must supply the original document that provides satisfactory proof of ownership plus an English translation of the text (if the original language is not in English). You must also give Customs two complete copies of that document and its translation.

Inspect Your Vehicle Before Handing It Over To Car Shippers

Note damages and take inventory of the car’s contents. Remove personal items to avoid theft, and be prepared to declare the vehicle’s entire contents to Customs. Ask your car shipper about items you can keep in the car such as a spare tire, accessories, etc. to avoid any surprises. Lastly, Customs will thoroughly inspect your car for anything that could contaminate local agriculture. Therefore, give the vehicle a good cleaning, both inside and out.

Check On Insurance Coverage

Check with the automobile transport company and your own auto insurance company on coverage for loss and damage. If your car will cross the ocean, you might even consider buying marine insurance if either company or the ocean carrier does not offer sufficient coverage.