Can You Ship a Car from the US to Argentina?

Shipping a car internationally can seem like a daunting prospect with many unknowns. If you're relocating to Argentina from the United States, taking your vehicle with you may seem like the most convenient option.

However, the process of importing a car to Argentina involves several considerations regarding costs, taxes, documentation requirements, and logistics. In this guide, we'll provide an overview of what's involved in shipping a vehicle from the US to Argentina, from average costs to import taxes and temporary importation guidelines.

We'll also discuss the importance of working with an experienced shipping company and things to consider if you only need transportation for a shorter stay. By the end, you'll have a solid understanding of what it takes to import a car to Argentina and be able to evaluate if it makes sense for your situation.

Factors and Costs for Transporting a Car from the US to Argentina

Import Taxes and Duties

In addition to delivery fees, you'll encounter significant import taxes and duties when bringing a vehicle into Argentina. The standard tax rate for importing a used vehicle is a hefty 80% of the assessed value. This value is determined by an appraiser in Argentina based on your car's make, model, year, mileage or condition. New vehicles have different import duty structures as well.

Other taxes and fees you may encounter include a 21% Value Added Tax (VAT) on the total cost including duties, provincial taxes, port handling charges, and customs clearance paperwork processing. Some exceptions apply - diplomats, returning Argentine citizens, and permanent residents may qualify for discounted tax rates under certain conditions. But for most individuals importing a car, taxes can easily exceed the original shipping costs. Thoroughly researching import duty structures is crucial for budgeting the total cost.

Temporary Import Requirements

Rather than permanent import, the majority of people shipping vehicles to Argentina utilize the temporary importation process. This allows your car to legally be in the country for a defined period without paying the hefty permanent import taxes, as long as certain guidelines are followed:

1. Your vehicle must enter Argentina within 6 months of your arrival as the registered owner. Original license plates must remain on the car.
2. The vehicle can only remain in Argentina as long as your visa is valid. When your residency status changes or expires, the car must be exported again or permanent import duties will be due.
3. Specific importation documentation is required, including a Temporary Admission paperwork from customs. This must match details on your foreign registration and title.
4. If exporting the vehicle and leaving Argentina, you need export clearance documents from customs to prove it left the country.

Thorough recordkeeping and paperwork are critical to comply with temporary admission rules and avoid unplanned taxes or fines upon departure.

Working with an Experienced Hauler

Coordinating international vehicle transportation comes with many logistical and customs compliance hurdles. For a smooth process, it's strongly advised to use a reputable vehicle shipping company that specializes in foreign relocation.

Look for experience sending vehicles to Argentina specifically. Good companies can guide you through documentation requirements, arrange conveyance, and provide assistance at both the origin and destination ports. They'll understand nuances to help avoid costly mistakes. Some even act as a liaison with customs agencies.

While an international auto transporter may charge a premium, their expertise in navigating paperwork and regulations is worth the investment to save headaches later. Take the time to thoroughly research options and reviews before committing to a career.

Considerations for Shorter Stays

For extended expatriate assignments or permanent immigration, shipping your vehicle long-term can make sense despite the costs. However, importing a vehicle also comes with responsibilities like export duties, taxes, storage, and depreciation if selling upon departure. If you'll only be in Argentina temporarily, such as for a 1-2 year work assignment, other carrier options may be more practical:

• Rent a car long-term in Argentina through major agencies. Daily rates can be very reasonable, and you avoid import hassles.
• Purchase and then sell a used vehicle locally. Resale values hold fairly steady, so you likely won't take a huge loss.
• Use rideshare services or public conveyance depending on your needs and location in Argentina.

Weigh if the shipping price, taxes, legal compliance costs, resale uncertainties, and hassles of both importing and re-exporting are worthwhile for a shorter stay. In many cases, it may be more cost-effective and lower stress to rely on local rental or purchase options instead.

The Right Choice for Sending Your Vehicle

Importing a personal vehicle long-distance to Argentina brings notable challenges and expenses beyond just shipping costs. Significant import duties, strict temporary admission rules, requisite customs paperwork, language barriers, and uncertainty in the export process require careful planning and vetting of transportation companies.

For most temporary assignments, renting or buying locally tends to be more convenient. But if relocating permanently or for an extended period, bringing your car can still be feasible when fully understand the associated taxes and logistical hurdles.

With the right preparation and by working with experienced service providers, you can navigate importing a vehicle to the Area successfully. Just don't underestimate what's required and invest sufficient time weighing the pros and cons of your individual situation.

Looking to ship your vehicle from the US to Argentina?

As we explained in this article, importing a vehicle internationally involves significant costs, taxes, documents, and logistical coordination. But with the right partner, it's an achievable process.

A1 A-T has over 20 years of experience hauling vehicles worldwide, including top destinations in Latin America like Argentina. We can guide you through every step - from origin pickup and customs paperwork to delivery and local support upon arrival.

Receive personalized quotes based on your vehicle details. Our licensed carriers ensure safe transport by land, sea or a combination. And we're with you every mile of the journey to simplify the import process.

Let Us be your advocate and Argentina vehicle hauling specialist. Contact us today to discuss your vehicle shipping needs with a dedicated agent.

Get a free quote.