Ship Car to Manila, Philippines with Secure Transport
Car Shipping Manila
Manila is the Philippines' capital and the center for politics and economics. With about 2 million inhabitants, Manila is the second most populous city in the country. With beautiful architecture, the Manila Bay shoreline, and a lot to do, the city is a great place to live and work.
Public transportation, such as buses and taxis, can help you get around the large city. However, if one cannot speak the language or has difficulties with the currency, it will be advantageous to have a personal vehicle available. Shipping an individual vehicle anywhere in the Philippines isn't as tricky as directions are followed.
Import Taxes and Fees
When shipping a car to Manila, it's essential to account for various taxes and fees imposed by the Philippine government. These include a customs duty of 30% for vehicles with nine seats or fewer, an Ad Valorem Tax (AVT) ranging from 15% to 100% based on the vehicle's engine displacement, and a 12% Value Added Tax (VAT) applied to the sum of the vehicle's value, customs duty, and AVT. Additional charges may encompass import processing, documentary stamp, and container security fees. Being aware of these costs can help you budget and avoid unexpected expenses.
Registration and Compliance
Upon your vehicle's arrival in Manila, several steps must be completed before it can be legally driven. First, the car must clear customs, which involves submitting all necessary documentation and paying the applicable duties and taxes. Next, the vehicle must undergo inspection and registration with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), ensuring it meets local safety and emission standards. Completing these procedures diligently ensures compliance with Philippine laws and facilitates a smooth transition to driving your vehicle in Manila.
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Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Manila
- Shipping a car to Manila typically costs $1,500–$4,500, depending on vehicle type, departure location, and container or RoRo service.
- Ocean transport to Manila commonly takes 4–8 weeks, including vessel transit, port processing, and customs clearance procedures.
- Philippine imports require customs documentation, duties, and LTO compliance requirements before vehicles can receive local registration approval.
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manila to (California port) to San Jose, CA | $210 | $2300 | 5+26 days |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to the Area | $360 | $2300 | 5+26 days |
| Manila to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $410 | $3100 | 5+35 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to the City | $550 | $2300 | 6+26 days |
| Manila to (New York port) to Detroit, MI | $575 | $3100 | 6+35 days |
| City Limits to (New York port) to Chicago, IL | $675 | $3100 | 6+35 days |
| Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to Manila | $700 | $3100 | 6+35 days |
| Local Delivery to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $2300 | 7+26 days |
| Miami, FL to (New York port) to Manila | $925 | $3100 | 7+35 days |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to local Area | $1,025 | $2300 | 7+26 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
*Save ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for 1 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.
Documentation Needed for Shipment
Specific documentation must be presented to Customs with any vehicle shipment outside the United States. For the Philippines, this documentation may include the following.
- Title and vehicle registration
- Proof of purchase
- Receipt for paid duties
- A license or picture ID
- Passport
- Motor Vehicle Inspection Report
- Certificate of Release signed by the Commissioner at Customs
Requirements
Along with the necessary documentation, requirements also need to be met. The vehicle owner should contact the Philippine Embassy to determine these requirements, considering they may change anytime. However, below, you will find what is typically requested regarding vehicle shipment to the country.
- The vehicle must undergo clearance through the Philippine National Police.
- All duties must be paid in full.
- Approval through the Bureau of Customs.
Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI) for Used Vehicles
Importing a used vehicle into the Philippines requires obtaining a Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI) from the Bureau of Import Services (BIS). This certificate is essential to avoid potential seizure and penalties. To qualify, the vehicle must be registered in the importer's name for at least six months before shipment and meet specific criteria, including being left-hand drive and not exceeding three tons in gross weight. The application process involves submitting a notarized application form, proof of ownership, and evidence of the vehicle's compliance with Philippine standards. Ensuring all requirements are met before shipping can prevent costly delays and complications upon arrival.
Port and Customs Clearance Procedures
Upon arrival in Manila, your vehicle will undergo customs clearance at one of the 14 approved ports of entry in the Philippines. The process includes submitting necessary documents such as the Import Entry, Internal Revenue Declaration, and the Supplemental Declaration on Valuation. Customs authorities will assess duties and taxes based on the vehicle's value and specifications. After payment of the estimated fees, the car will be released from customs custody. Engaging a licensed customs broker can facilitate this process, ensuring compliance with all regulations and expediting the release of your vehicle.
What Hauling Methods Are Available?
Three shipping methods are available for vehicle shipment outside the U.S. These include RO/RO, container, and air shipping. Below are descriptions for each one.
- Air Freight isn't typically an option for everyone. It is costly, and few can afford this shipment.
- RO/RO Carrying is the roll-on, roll-off method. The vehicle must remain empty except for floor mats, a jack, and a spare tire. This is the cheapest form of shipment.
- Shipping containers allow you to transport additional things. The vehicle and its contents will be stored in the container, which might also serve as storage space for your things. You can split the moving cost with another person by having them share the container with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to Manila, Philippines from the USA?
As of September 28, 2026, a practical current planning range for shipping a standard car from the USA to Manila is about $2,100 to $4,500 for ocean transport. U.S. pickup location, vehicle size, departure port, and RoRo or container service account for most rate differences. Philippine customs duties, taxes, terminal handling, and local delivery are separate. For a vehicle-specific estimate, use A1's international car shipping rates calculator.
How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Manila?
Shipping a car from the USA to Manila commonly requires about 4 to 7 weeks for ocean transport, depending on the U.S. departure port, vessel routing, and shipping method. Current market schedules place many Philippines-bound sailings near 25 to 50 days, with West Coast routings often shorter than East or Gulf Coast movements. Customs examination and release occur after arrival and can add time. A1's guide to international car shipping by sea explains the ocean-shipping process.
What documents are required to ship a car to Manila, Philippines?
A U.S. vehicle shipment to Manila normally starts with proof of ownership and export documentation, while Philippine import paperwork depends on whether the vehicle is new or used. For a used self-propelled vehicle, U.S. CBP requires Electronic Export Information in AES and the required title documents at least 72 hours before export. A qualifying used vehicle entering the Philippines also needs a DTI Certificate of Authority to Import, plus the applicable passport, title or registration, and roadworthiness and emissions documentation.
What taxes and duties apply when importing a car into the Philippines?
Philippine automobile imports can incur customs duty, automobile excise tax, and 12% VAT, plus smaller customs processing charges. Current Bureau of Customs guidance lists a 30% customs-duty rate for automobiles with nine seats or fewer and 20% for those with ten seats or more. Automobile excise-tax rates are generally 4%, 10%, 20%, or 50%, depending on the applicable value bracket, with special treatment for qualifying hybrid and purely electric vehicles. The exact assessment depends on the vehicle's customs classification and valuation.
Are there restrictions on importing used cars into the Philippines?
Yes. The Philippines permits only qualified used vehicles imported by qualified individuals, and the required Certificate of Authority to Import must be secured before importation. Under the No-Dollar Importation program, a personally owned vehicle must be left-hand drive, weigh no more than 3,000 kilograms GVW, have been registered to the qualified importer for at least six months, and have the required roadworthiness and emissions certificate. Philippine Customs also limits this program to one vehicle per family and restricts resale for three years.
Is RoRo or container shipping better for sending a car to Manila?
RoRo usually costs less for an operable standard vehicle, while container shipping provides an enclosed space that can suit high-value vehicles or cars needing different handling. RoRo requires the vehicle to be driven on and off the vessel and is available only where the carrier offers suitable service. Container rates are normally higher because the vehicle occupies dedicated or shared container space. A1's RoRo shipping guide covers the main cost and handling differences.
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