Ship Car To Kuala Lumpur
Car Shipping Kuala Lumpur
The most populous city and capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is one of the fastest-growing cities in Asia. It is the financial, cultural, and economic center and the hub of commerce and trade. In recent years, there has been a steady influx of foreigners and expatriates from the West for employment and trade. With the constant increase in tourism and work opportunities, more people have come to Malaysia temporarily or permanently and require a personal vehicle.
Suppose you are exporting a vehicle to Kuala Lumpur. In that case, you must pay the customs duties and complete the documentation and formalities before the car or vehicle is handed over. Additionally, it is essential to know about the weather conditions there. The tropical climate is suitable for shipping throughout the year but only in the rainy months, as the environment is prone to hurricanes and cyclones. This can delay the deliveries. Thus, knowing the climate and weather patterns before shipping your vehicle is best. With new regulations that have made import easier, shipping to Kuala Lumpur has become convenient.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Kuala Lumpur
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY to (New York port) to Kuala Lumpur | $275 | $3300 | 5+39 days |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Kuala Lumpur | $350 | $2500 | 5+28 days |
| Kuala Lumpur to (California port) to Las Vegas, NV | $450 | $2500 | 5+28 days |
| Kuala Lumpur to (California port) to Portland, OR | $475 | $2500 | 6+28 days |
| Seattle, WA to (California port) to Kuala Lumpur | $550 | $2500 | 6+28 days |
| Kuala Lumpur to (New York port) to Columbus, OH | $550 | $3300 | 5+39 days |
| Kuala Lumpur to (New York port) to Charlotte, NC | $575 | $3300 | 6+39 days |
| Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to Kuala Lumpur | $700 | $3300 | 6+39 days |
| Kuala Lumpur to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $2500 | 7+28 days |
| Kuala Lumpur to (New York port) to Houston, TX | $1,075 | $3300 | 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 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.
Steps before importing the vehicle.
There are certain essential documents without which transportation would not be possible. These documents are needed at the domestic US port and then at the Kuala Lumpur port:
- Proof of ownership of the vehicle.
- Vehicle purchase bills.
- Clear vehicle title.
- Registration certificate of the vehicle from country of origin.
- Owner’s passport.
- Resident or work permit.
- Vehicle insurance documents.
Preparing in advance to pay the VAT and customs fees is essential, as banks are closed on weekends. You might need to contact Malaysia Customs for more details on importing vehicles to Kuala Lumpur.
It will help you get more information on the restrictions you must take care of. However, we consider these aspects when you work with experienced and trustworthy international shipping transporters like A1 Auto Transport Service. When your vehicle arrives in Malaysia, you must apply for an International license, local registration, and insurance before driving the car around.
Things to consider.
You will need to prep your car before it is transported. You must remove the air conditioning gas and personal items and ensure that only an extra set of keys, spare tire, and jack are in it. If you are planning to use the RORO method, to ensure quick delivery and no quarantine period, then you will need to get the car steam-cleaned. A1 Auto Transport service will not have to move it from quarantine to a cleaning facility before shipping it. You must check with Title 19 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations for eligibility for shipping vehicles. You must drop off the car with the shipping service or at the U.S. port before it can be shipped. However, there are two standard methods of shipping, namely:
- RORO: Most customers choose this method as it is more affordable. The cars or vehicles are driven on the ships using ramps and secured for the transit. At the destination port, the cars are driven off.
- Container shipping: You can put your car in a shipping container along with other items, and it is then secured and sealed for transit. Usually, these are 20 feet or 40 feet in size, and though it is slightly more expensive, it is worth it.
If you would like more information about importing vehicles in Kuala Lumpur, please contact the Embassy of Malaysia in the USA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ship a car to Kuala Lumpur from the U.S.?
You ship a car to Kuala Lumpur using ocean freight, typically via container shipping or roll-on roll-off service. Vehicles are first transported to a U.S. export port, then loaded for sea transit to Port Klang near Kuala Lumpur. Required steps include export documentation, vehicle cleaning, and customs clearance on arrival. Most customers use professional international car shipping services to manage logistics, compliance, and port coordination efficiently.
Can I ship a car from Sabah to Kuala Lumpur?
Yes, shipping a car from Sabah to Kuala Lumpur is common within Malaysia. Vehicles are usually moved by coastal sea freight from Kota Kinabalu to Port Klang, then delivered inland. Transit times average 5–10 days, depending on vessel schedules and port handling. Costs vary by vehicle size and carrier availability. This option is widely used for relocations from East Malaysia and avoids long overland transport across borders.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Kuala Lumpur?
Shipping a car to Kuala Lumpur generally costs between $1,200 and $3,500 from the U.S. Pricing depends on vehicle size, shipping method, U.S. port location, fuel surcharges, and destination fees in Malaysia. Container shipping costs more than roll-on roll-off but offers added protection. Inland U.S. transport and Malaysian taxes or duties are typically separate. Use an international car shipping rates calculator for accurate estimates.
Is roll-on roll-off shipping available to Kuala Lumpur?
Yes, roll-on roll-off shipping is available to Kuala Lumpur through Port Klang and is one of the most cost-effective methods. Vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel and secured for transit. RoRo is ideal for operable standard vehicles and typically costs less than containers, though it offers less protection. Learn more about roll-on roll-off shipping when comparing international options.
What documents are required to ship a car to Kuala Lumpur?
Required documents include the original vehicle title, bill of sale, passport copy, and export authorization. Malaysian customs may also require an import permit, vehicle valuation, and compliance with local regulations. Vehicles must be clean and free of personal items. Working with an experienced international carrier helps ensure paperwork accuracy and prevents customs delays at Port Klang.
How long does it take to ship a car to Kuala Lumpur?
Shipping a car to Kuala Lumpur usually takes 30–45 days from the U.S. This includes inland transport to port, vessel loading, ocean transit, and customs clearance. Transit times vary based on departure port, carrier schedules, and seasonal congestion. Choosing consolidated ocean freight via international car shipping by sea offers predictable timelines for most vehicles.
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