Ship Car To Cartagena Columbia
Car Shipping Cartagena
The capital of Bolívar, the department in Colombia, Cartagena is the fifth-biggest city in the country. It is an essential center for tourism, petrochemicals, and maritime industry.
If you intend to move here or have already moved, not having a vehicle can be tiresome, and that is why it helps to move your vehicle with you when you relocate from the USA.
However, specific import laws and requirements must be considered. This includes being aware that only the most recent model of a particular company's vehicles or new cars can be imported. However, there are exceptions, such as if you are importing a vintage or antique vehicle, but special permits are needed. Buying a new one in Cartagena might be best if you have an older car.
Another key aspect of safe shipping vehicles to Colombia is to engage the services of A1 Auto Transport, as we understand all about shipping here and are conversant with the Customs regulations. According to the Customs Authority of Colombia, only new vehicles with no miles on the odometer can be imported permanently as per the Andean Automotive Agreement (1993). However, there are exceptions for vintage cars and diplomatic imports. You can ship your vehicle using the Roll-on/Roll-Off method or select Container shipping.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Cartagena
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY to (New York port) to Cartagena | $275 | $2200 | 5+15 days |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Cartagena | $350 | $2600 | 5+19 days |
| Cartagena to (California port) to Las Vegas, NV | $450 | $2600 | 5+19 days |
| Cartagena to (California port) to Portland, OR | $475 | $2600 | 6+19 days |
| Seattle, WA to (California port) to Cartagena | $550 | $2600 | 6+19 days |
| Cartagena to (New York port) to Columbus, OH | $550 | $2200 | 5+15 days |
| Cartagena to (New York port) to Charlotte, NC | $575 | $2200 | 6+15 days |
| Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to Cartagena | $700 | $2200 | 6+15 days |
| Cartagena to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $2600 | 7+19 days |
| Cartagena to (New York port) to Houston, TX | $1,075 | $2200 | 7+15 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 ten days to process the documents.
- *Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport 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 shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Temporary auto import
The temporary import permit allows you to bring in the vehicle for a period of 90 days which is extendable by another 90 days for the purpose of transit to another country or for tourism. It would be best if you had the proper permits before you were allowed to drive within the county. You can drive around in Cartagena by buying the requisite car insurance or SOAT, and getting the license at the border. In other cases, you might have to contact the Customs authorities and fill out the Temporary Vehicle Import Form to get the permit. Some of the documents that will be needed for the license include:
- Vehicle registration documents.
- Colombian entry stamp and copies of passport.
- Bill of Lading.
Vintage or classic vehicle
If you are importing a classic or vintage car, other requirements have to be fulfilled:
- Obtain an import license authorized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism for a personal vehicle.
- Colombian Automobile Club certificate.
- It must be over 35 years/50 years, retaining original factory specifications.
- A certificate of classification has to be presented by an accredited international author/agency.
Registration of the new vehicle
You will be required to go to the closest transport office and submit the relevant documents the following:
- Import declaration.
- Proof of purchase of SOAT.
- Vehicle purchase invoice.
- Receipt of taxes.
After paying the taxes, you can register your vehicle locally with the Colombian authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship a car to Cartagena, Colombia from the United States?
Yes, you can ship a car to Cartagena, Colombia from the U.S. using ocean freight services. Vehicles typically depart from ports like Miami, Houston, or New Jersey and arrive at the Port of Cartagena. The most common methods are RoRo shipping and container shipping. Costs, transit time, and eligibility depend on vehicle age, emissions compliance, and Colombian import rules. Most shipments take 14–28 days port to port. Learn more through our international car shipping services.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Cartagena, Colombia?
The cheapest way to ship a car to Cartagena is roll-on roll-off vehicle shipping. RoRo allows drivable vehicles to be loaded directly onto the vessel, reducing handling and container costs. It is best suited for standard cars and SUVs with no personal items inside. Container shipping costs more but is recommended for luxury or non-running vehicles. RoRo routes to Cartagena run regularly from major U.S. ports.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Cartagena, Colombia?
Shipping a car to Cartagena generally costs $1,200–$2,800 USD. RoRo shipping is usually the cheapest option, while container shipping costs more but adds protection. Pricing is influenced by vehicle size, U.S. departure port, fuel surcharges, and seasonal demand. Customs duties and Colombian taxes are paid separately upon arrival. For rough budgeting, review our international car shipping rates calculator.
Can I ship a used car to Colombia legally?
Yes, but Colombia has strict import rules for used vehicles. Most non-residents cannot permanently import used cars unless they qualify under special exemptions, such as returning nationals or diplomats. Vehicle age, emissions standards, and documentation are closely reviewed by Colombian customs. Many customers ship vehicles temporarily or for resale outside Colombia. Always confirm eligibility before booking to avoid port storage penalties or re-export costs.
What documents are required to import cars into Colombia?
Importing cars into Colombia requires the original vehicle title, bill of sale, passport copy, and shipping documents. Colombian customs may also require proof of residency status and compliance with import eligibility rules. Any missing or incorrect paperwork can delay release at the Port of Cartagena and increase storage fees. For document planning and export prep, our international car shipping by sea team assists before departure.
How long does it take to ship a car to Cartagena, Colombia?
Transit time to Cartagena usually ranges from 2–4 weeks, depending on the U.S. port and shipping method. East Coast ports are generally faster than West Coast routes. Delays may occur due to customs clearance, vessel schedules, or peak shipping seasons. Door-to-port timelines also include inland U.S. transport and export inspections. Ocean schedules are more predictable with RoRo services on established Caribbean routes.
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