Ship Car to Colombia Easily with Expert International Support
Car Shipping Colombia
Typical Transport Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- For most cars from the U.S., the cost of hauling to Colombia is $1,700 to $4,100 (this assumes the introductory shipment of a standard vehicle).
- Most shipments to the area come from a shipping container, so larger vehicles that cannot fit into a container are assessed an additional cost.
Cost & Time Examples For Hauling a Vehicle
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA to (California port) to Cartagena | $200 | $2,900 | 5+12 |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Cartagena | $350 | $2,900 | 5+12 |
| Boston, MA to (New York port) to Cartagena | $400 | $2,500 | 5+9 |
| Portland, OR to (California port) to Cartagena | $475 | $2,900 | 6+12 |
| Seattle, WA to (California port) to Cartagena | $550 | $2,900 | 6+12 |
| Charlotte, NC to (New York port) to Cartagena | $575 | $2,500 | 6+9 |
| Detroit, MI to (New York port) to Cartagena | $575 | $2,500 | 6+9 |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to Cartagena | $675 | $2,500 | 6+9 |
| Memphis, TN to (New York port) to Cartagena | $800 | $2,500 | 6+9 |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to Cartagena | $1,025 | $2,900 | 7+12 |
*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 haul 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.
The first deal-breaker you need to know about exporting or sending an automobile to Colombia is that all vehicles entering the country must now be brand new or at least the current model year. Antique automobiles are the sole exception, and transport of these vehicles requires prior approval from the Colombian port administration. The government does not allow the import of used cars, so if you have an older automobile, you must buy one in Colombia.
Retaining a reliable, forthright shipping company licensed internationally is paramount when importing your vehicle. This is extremely important because you must know and understand all the country’s regulations regulating imports. Before getting a quote from an international shipper, you may want to learn about Colombian customs rules.
Understanding Colombia's Vehicle Import Restrictions
Colombia enforces strict regulations on vehicle imports. Only brand-new vehicles from the current model year with zero kilometers on the odometer are eligible for permanent importation. Used vehicles are generally prohibited, except for classic or collector cars over 35 years old, which require special permits and certifications from Colombian authorities. Additionally, all imported vehicles must comply with Euro 6b emission standards, effective January 1, 2023. Ensuring your vehicle meets these criteria is crucial to avoid complications during the import process.
Your car will probably be leaving the U.S. from one of the several southern ports, for instance, Port Everglades, Miami, Houston, or Galveston, and is most likely to arrive in Colombia at either Cartagena, Buenaventura, or Barranquilla port. Most of these ports have ships departing either weekly or bi-weekly, so you’ll need to check on the exact dates for the port nearest your home location.
When discussing your shipping needs with a carrier, you’ll want to be prepared to choose either container shipping or RORO shipping (roll-on, roll-off). For container hauling, the car is sealed in a container and is locked for safety; for RORO shipping, the vehicle will be driven on and off the ship via a ramp. Container shipping is the more expensive option but is not the only factor in determining the cost. The price to have your vehicle shipped will also depend on the time of year, the size of your car, insurance (if desired), and whether you need the vehicle picked up at your home or driven to the exit port.
Navigating Import Taxes and Fees
Importing a car into Colombia involves taxes and fees that can significantly impact the total cost. These include customs duties, a 19% Value Added Tax (VAT) on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value, and a consumption tax that varies based on the vehicle's value and engine size. For instance, cars with a CIF value exceeding $30,000 may incur a higher consumption tax rate. Investigating these costs when budgeting for your vehicle import is essential to avoid unexpected expenses.
Top Colombia Destinations:
Other Types Of Vehicles We Haul
Things to Remember
What You Need to Know Before Shipping a Car to Colombia
Shipping a car internationally involves several steps. While your shipping carrier will likely handle much of the paperwork, knowing the process yourself can help prevent delays and complications.
Gather the Required Documents
Colombian Customs requires a copy of your passport, driver’s license, and proof of vehicle ownership. Having these documents ready early will streamline the shipping and clearance process.
Verify Vehicle Eligibility
Not all vehicles qualify for international shipping. According to U.S. export rules (Title 19 of the Code of Federal Regulations), your car must meet documentation standards and, if there’s a lien have formal permission from the lienholder to ship.
Submit to U.S. Customs
Documents must be filed with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at least 72 hours before your vehicle leaves the U.S. Even if your shipping company handles this, double-check it’s done on time.
Plan for Vehicle Pickup in Colombia
If someone else is collecting your vehicle at the port in Colombia, provide written authorization to avoid any legal or identity issues.
Complete the Title Transfer
Once your car arrives in Colombia, you must transfer the title under local laws. Depending on your vehicle type and value, this may involve an inspection and payment of taxes or import duties.
The process of registering a vehicle in Colombia.
Required Documents For Hauling A Vehicle To Colombia
- Verified import permit
- Bill of lading (provided by shipper)
- Original invoice
- Bill of sale (copy okay)
- Vehicle title
- Proof of registration
Transporting Of Heavy Equipment & Oversized Cargo
Hiring reputable overseas transporters is in your most significant interest in getting heavy equipment or oversized cargo shipped to Colombia from the U.S. We will ensure your cargo is shipped safely overseas using state-of-the-art hauling equipment and the latest hauling technology. With all that we have access to, there is hardly any type of heavy or oversized equipment we can’t haul internationally.
If you're curious about what types of cargo we mean when we say “oversized” or “heavy” equipment, here are some examples…
- Large Vehicles
- Heavy Machinery
- Farm Equipment
- Mining Equipment
- Industrial Equipment
- Paving Equipment
- Hydraulic Machinery
- Forklifts
- Cranes
- Backhoes
- Tractors
- Engineering Equipment and more…
No matter what type of cargo you intend to ship to Colombia, we will add on free protection through insurance coverage. It may not protect the full value of your cargo, but we offer additional insurance options.
International Carrier Options through A1 A-T
We offer four transport methods for those who wish to ship large or heavy equipment overseas. These methods are excellent, safe options, but what is available to you will depend on the type of equipment you’re shipping. Our trained representatives will assist you with your shipping options. Here are the methods of shipping we have available…
- Container Transport
- Flat Rack Shipping
- Roll On/Roll Off Shipping
- Lift On/Lift Off Shipping
Container shipping is the most expensive option since it offers the most security, but your cargo must fit into a 40-foot shipping container. The roll-on/roll-off shipping method is the least costly open-air transport option, and it requires your vehicle or equipment to roll onto and off of the ship. Flat Rack shipping secures your cargo to a metal frame for travel, while Lift-on/Lift-off shipping is mainly recommended for crated cargo and those with inoperable vehicles.
Other Services
- Overseas Moving Services to Colombia
Related Information & FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship a used car to Colombia?
No. Colombia generally prohibits permanent imports of used vehicles. Only brand-new cars from the current model year with zero mileage are allowed for standard import. Limited exceptions apply for classic vehicles over 35 years old or approved temporary imports tied to visas or special permits. Most customers instead export vehicles temporarily or ship for resale outside Colombia. These rules are enforced by Colombian customs and port authorities without flexibility. Learn more through our international car shipping service.
How are car import taxes calculated in Colombia?
Import taxes are calculated using the CIF value, meaning vehicle cost, insurance, and freight combined. Standard passenger vehicles typically face a 35% import duty, plus 19% VAT and possible consumption tax depending on engine size and value. Taxes are assessed before vehicle release from port. These charges are paid directly to Colombian authorities and are separate from shipping fees.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Colombia from the U.S.?
Shipping a car to Colombia typically costs between $1,200 and $3,500. Pricing is influenced by shipping method, departure port, vehicle size, and fuel surcharges. Roll-on Roll-off is usually the cheapest way to ship a car to Colombia, while container shipping costs more but offers added protection. Inland transport and port handling fees may apply separately. Estimated costs can be reviewed using our car shipping rates.
What documents are required to ship a car to Colombia?
You must provide the original vehicle title, a notarized bill of sale or commercial invoice, passport copy, and a bill of lading. Financed vehicles require written lienholder approval. Colombian customs may also request proof of residency status for temporary imports. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork is the most common cause of shipment delays. Documentation standards are similar across international moves handled through our international car shipping process.
What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Colombia?
Roll-on Roll-off shipping is usually the most affordable option for shipping a car to Colombia. Vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel, reducing handling and container costs. This method works best for operable vehicles with no personal items inside. Container shipping costs more but allows additional protection and shared-container options. Cost efficiency depends on port availability and vehicle dimensions.
How long does it take to ship a car to Colombia?
Transit time from the U.S. to Colombia usually ranges from 20 to 40 days. Roll-on Roll-off shipments average 20 to 30 days, while container shipping often takes 25 to 40 days. Timing depends on port schedules, customs clearance speed, and seasonal congestion. Weather in Caribbean shipping lanes can also affect sailing frequency. Door-to-port timelines are typical for international car shipping by sea.
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