Ship Car To Adelaide

Q: How much does it cost to ship a car to Adelaide?

Most shipments fall between $2,800 and $5,500 USD. Pricing is influenced by vehicle size, shipping method, departure port, fuel costs, and Australian port and quarantine fees. Container shipping costs more than RoRo but offers added protection. Seasonal demand can also impact rates, which is why many customers compare options using an international shipping rates calculator .

Q: What shipping methods are available for Adelaide car transport?

The two primary methods are Roll-on Roll-off and container shipping. RoRo is cost-effective for operable vehicles and follows fixed port schedules. Container shipping suits luxury, classic, or non-running vehicles and adds security during transit. Method selection depends on budget, vehicle condition, and timing, with detailed comparisons available in our RoRo shipping guide .

Q: How long does it take to ship a car to Adelaide?

Average transit time is 30–50 days, including U.S. port handling, ocean transit, and Australian customs clearance. Delays may occur during peak shipping seasons or if paperwork is incomplete. Ocean sailings operate on fixed schedules, which means timing should be planned carefully when arranging international vehicle transport.

Q: What documents are required to ship a car to Adelaide?

You will need the original vehicle title, bill of sale, photo ID, and U.S. export authorization. Australia also requires an approved vehicle import permit and strict quarantine compliance. Missing or incorrect documents can cause costly port holds. A full breakdown is outlined in our guide on documents required for international car shipping .

by Joe Webster

Last updated Dec, 18 2025

Car Shipping Adelaide

As the country's fifth largest city and South Australia's capital, Adelaide is a very desirable place. The city remains one of the cities with some of the most reputable financial and governmental institutions. Many come here for employment and residency.

The roadways are all paved and well-constructed. Anyone traveling can easily reach anywhere their destination might be throughout the entire city and its surroundings. The town is quite urban and designed for residency on a grid, allowing many parks, shops, and a delightful city center.

Price & Time Examples For Hauling

To/From	Ground	Ocean	Estimated Time
New York, NY to (New York port) to Adelaide	$275	$2800	5+39 days
Los Angeles to (California port) to the Area	$350	$2000	5+30 days
City Limits to (California port) to Las Vegas, NV	$450	$2000	5+30 days
Portland, OR to (California port) to Local Area	$475	$2000	6+30 days
Adelaide to (California port) to Seattle, WA	$550	$2000	6+30 days
Columbus, OH to (New York port) to Local Area	$550	$2800	5+39 days
Charlotte, NC to (New York port) to the Area	$575	$2800	6+39 days
Local Delivery to (New York port) to Atlanta, GA	$700	$2800	6+39 days
Denver, CO to (California port) to Adelaide	$775	$2000	7+30 days
Local Delivery to (New York port) to Houston, TX	$1,075	$2800	7+39 days

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.

*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.

*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transit a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.

*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and loads can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

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Why Should I Have A Vehicle Shifted To The Area?

Having your vehicle moved to Adelaide will only be beneficial to you. The city is low on crime and easy to navigate, so there aren't too many things to be worried about. Compared to the United States, driving in Australia might take some getting used to due to the fact it's for left-handed vehicles, but nonetheless, having your own vehicle will prove to be priceless.

Travel will be much easier with your vehicle. You can travel freely and explore all that there is to see without taking public conveyance. Loading to the country is easier than most, and there are plenty of ports around, so shifting a vehicle is a great choice.

What Do I Need To Do Before Cargo?

Before a vehicle is shipped, contact the Embassy of Australia. They will inform you of current regulations and rules. They will also tell you precisely what is needed. However, the list below is some of the stuff that you can expect to hear from them:

Submission of a letter of compliance to the government of Australia.
The vehicle must be left-handed or older than 1989.
Please fill out the approval form for the cargo and have it accepted.
Passport.
Title and registration.
Proof of residency.
Proof of vehicle purchase.
License or picture ID.

While not all of those things are current, they are typically a necessity that must be addressed. Ensure you go about vehicle shipment properly to cover all facets the day your vehicle arrives. Also, ensure you are present at the port on the day of your vehicle's due arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ship a car to Adelaide from the United States?

Shipping a car to Adelaide starts with pickup in the U.S., export clearance, and ocean transport to South Australia. Vehicles typically ship by container or Roll-on Roll-off vessel, then clear Australian customs and biosecurity before release. Total transit usually takes 4–7 weeks depending on sailing schedules and inspections. Working with a provider experienced in international car shipping helps prevent documentation and port delays.

How long does it take to ship a car to Adelaide?

Average transit time is 30–50 days, including U.S. port handling, ocean transit, and Australian customs clearance. Delays may occur during peak shipping seasons or if paperwork is incomplete. Ocean sailings operate on fixed schedules, which is why timing is often planned around established international sea routes. Faster timelines may require premium scheduling or flexible delivery windows.

How much does it cost to ship a car to Adelaide?

Most shipments fall between $2,800 and $5,500 USD. Pricing is influenced by vehicle size, shipping method, departure port, fuel costs, and Australian port and quarantine fees. Container shipping costs more than RoRo but offers added protection. Seasonal demand can also impact rates, which is why many customers compare options using an international shipping rates calculator.

What shipping methods are available for Adelaide car transport?

The two primary methods are Roll-on Roll-off and container shipping. RoRo is cost-effective for operable vehicles and follows fixed port schedules. Container shipping suits luxury, classic, or non-running vehicles and adds security during transit. Method selection depends on budget, vehicle condition, and timing, with detailed comparisons available in our RoRo shipping guide.

Can I ship a car to Adelaide from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane?

Yes. Interstate vehicle transport within Australia is common, particularly from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane to Adelaide. Cars are typically moved by open or enclosed carrier, with delivery times averaging 2–5 days depending on distance and route demand. This option is often used after international arrival or for domestic relocations within Australia.

What documents are required to ship a car to Adelaide?

You will need the original vehicle title, bill of sale, photo ID, and U.S. export authorization. Australia also requires an approved vehicle import permit and strict quarantine compliance. Missing or incorrect documents can cause costly port holds. A full breakdown is outlined in our guide on documents required for international car shipping.