International Car Shipping By Air
What is the International Car Shipping By Air?
Are you looking for quick methods of shipping your vehicle overseas? Well, international car shipping by air is one of the best ways to transport your car to the new city. However, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind when you decide to ship your car with a plane.
Budget the expenses. Now, it should be pointed out air shipping is a lot more expensive than regular ground transport. That’s why you need to set aside a convenient amount of money to cover the expenses. If the vehicle is worth a few thousand dollars, it may not be a good idea as the transportation could cost you more.
Research well. There aren’t many companies going to offer international car shipping by air service, so make sure that you get ahead of things and find out the best options. Check the ratings and their online profiles to ensure everything is hassle-free. With this in mind, companies specializing in air transportation should be your primary option.
Ask all the necessary questions. If you will be shipping an international car by air, ensure you have a container only for you. This will cost you a bit more, but it’s worth it. It will provide peace of mind, which is much needed when shipping your vehicle by airplane. Make sure to ask all the right questions when you arrange the transportation.
How To Import Your Vehicle With Aerial Freight
Though it isn’t as challenging as you thought, when you work with A1 Auto Transport service, we will assist you at every step of international car shipping by air. However, it is essential to be aware of the few conditions that you must meet:
- The car needs to be in properly working condition.
- The vehicle needs to be empty of personal belongings.
- You can’t leave more than 1/8 of the tank of gas.
- You need to provide a spare set of keys.
- The car needs to be lien-free; if not, you need a notarized authorization from the lien holder.
- Sometimes, S. Customs will take more than three days to get through clearance, and if the vehicle is stored within this time, you will have to pay the fees. The transit will take between 1 and 10 days, depending on the destination.
Information That You Need To Get A Quote
Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, a documented estimate is essential. We will need further information from you to provide you with a precise estimate. The following are examples of required documentation:
- The vehicle's title must be original.
- The vehicle identification number and number plate.
- Specifications and dimensions include year produced, model, and manufacturer.
- It is essential to consider how much it is worth in U.S. dollars and whether or not you want extra insurance.
- Transportation method: from airport to airport, airport to door, door to door, etc.
- The shipper's full legal name, US phone number, and US street and postal address.
Read More
- Shipping a car internationally by sea
- Shipping cars by air
- Shipping cars overseas by air
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does international car shipping by air cost?
Shipping a car internationally by air typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on the vehicle size, route, and departure airport. Smaller sedans cost less than SUVs or luxury models, which need additional handling. Air freight is the fastest method—ideal for high-value, time-sensitive, or exotic vehicles. For a cost breakdown by route, check our detailed international car shipping cost calculator.
How long does it take to ship a car by air internationally?
Air transport is the quickest way to move a vehicle overseas, usually taking 1–5 days depending on customs clearance and flight schedules. Transit time includes drop-off, flight duration, and destination processing. Compared to sea shipping, which can take weeks, air freight saves significant time—especially for urgent relocations or special events. Learn more about time comparisons in our international car shipping overview.
What are the advantages of shipping a car by air?
The biggest advantages are speed, security, and reliability. Air freight ensures minimal handling, climate-controlled conditions, and priority clearance at customs. It’s ideal for luxury, classic, or prototype vehicles that can’t risk damage or delays. While more expensive than sea shipping, air transport offers unparalleled convenience for dealerships, collectors, and international exhibitions.
Can I ship any type of car by air?
Yes, almost any vehicle can be shipped by air, including cars, SUVs, race cars, and motorcycles—if it meets the aircraft cargo hold dimensions and weight limits. Oversized or modified vehicles may require specialized packaging or partial disassembly. A1 Auto Transport helps assess compatibility and compliance for air freight shipments. For special vehicle types, see our luxury car transport page.
How do I prepare my vehicle for international air transport?
Preparing your car involves cleaning, removing personal items, draining fuel to one-quarter tank, and securing the battery. Documentation such as the vehicle title, photo ID, and export declaration must be ready. Some airlines also require the vehicle to be crated or covered for added safety. For guidance on documentation, visit what documents are required for international car shipping.
Is air freight car shipping insured and trackable?
Yes, all vehicles shipped by air are covered by comprehensive cargo insurance throughout transport. You can also track the shipment in real-time via the carrier’s system or our car shipping tracker. Insurance protection includes loss, theft, or damage during transit, offering peace of mind for high-value vehicles.
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