Vehicle Shipping FAQs: Answers to Common Questions About Freight 

20 Feb 2024

As the global economy continues to grow, the need for efficient and reliable vehicle shipping services has become increasingly essential. Whether you’re expatriating overseas, purchasing a vehicle from another country or managing a business fleet, understanding the vehicle freight process is crucial. In this article, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about vehicle shipping to make your experience importing and exporting vehicles easier. 

What is Vehicle Shipping? 

Vehicle shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle freight, is the process of transporting vehicles from one location to another, typically over long distances that breach national borders. This can involve shipping cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats and other types of vehicles using various transportation methods, commonly freight ships. 

How Does Vehicle Shipping Work? 

Vehicle shipping works by hiring a transportation company to pick up your vehicle from its current location and deliver it to its destination. The shipping process typically involves scheduling the shipment, preparing the vehicle for transport, loading it onto the carrier and tracking its progress until it reaches its final destination. 

What Are the Different Methods of Vehicle Shipping? 

There are two primary methods of vehicle shipping: RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) and container shipping. RoRo shipping involves driving the vehicle onto a specialised carrier vessel, where it is securely parked and transported to its destination. Container shipping involves loading the vehicle into a shipping container which is then loaded onto a ship or other transportation mode. 

How Much Does Vehicle Shipping Cost? 

The cost of vehicle shipping varies depending on several factors, including the distance of the shipment, the type and size of the vehicle, the shipping method and any additional services requested. It’s essential to obtain quotes from multiple shipping companies and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. 

How Long Does Vehicle Shipping Take? 

The duration of vehicle shipping depends on factors such as the distance of the shipment, the shipping method and the specific route taken. In general, domestic shipments within the same country may take a few days to a few weeks, while international shipments can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the destination. 

Do I Need Insurance for Vehicle Shipping? 

While vehicle shipping companies typically carry insurance coverage for the vehicles they transport by default, it’s essential to verify the extent of coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance for added peace of mind. Comprehensive insurance can protect against damage, theft and other unforeseen events during transit. 

What Documents Do I Need for Vehicle Shipping? 

The required documents for vehicle shipping vary depending on the origin and destination countries, as well as the shipping method and the type of vehicle being shipped. Common documents may include the vehicle’s title and registration, a bill of sale, import/export permits and a valid driver’s license or passport. 

Can I Ship Personal Items Inside the Vehicle? 

While some vehicle shipping companies allow limited personal items to be transported inside the vehicle, it’s generally not recommended due to safety and liability concerns. Excessive or unauthorised personal belongings can add weight to the vehicle, increase the risk of damage during transit and may violate customs regulations. 

What Should I Do to Prepare My Vehicle for Shipping? 

Before shipping your vehicle, it’s essential to prepare it properly to ensure a smooth and successful transit. This may include cleaning the vehicle inside and out, removing personal belongings and valuables, documenting existing damage or defects, securing loose parts or accessories and ensuring that the vehicle is in perfect working condition. 

Can I Track the Progress of My Vehicle Shipment? 

Many vehicle shipping companies offer tracking services that allow customers to monitor the progress of their shipment in real time. This may include online tracking portals, email or text notifications and customer service support to provide updates and address any concerns along the way. 

In conclusion, vehicle shipping is a complex process that requires careful planning, preparation and coordination to ensure a seamless experience. By understanding the fundamentals of vehicle shipping and addressing common questions and concerns, you can navigate the shipping process with confidence and peace of mind. If you have additional questions or require assistance with your vehicle shipment, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable vehicle shipping company for expert guidance and support.