
Guide and Tips for Shipping Your Car to Mexico
Proper documentation, including title and registration, is required when shipping a car to Mexico. Over 85% of cars shipped to Mexico yearly originate from the United States, with significant numbers coming from Houston, Detroit, Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan, and Minnesota. Before hauling, it is essential to ensure the car is in good condition and loaded correctly onto the truck in its designated place.

Typical Shipping Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- Transport costs for a vehicle going to Mexico from the U.S. can be as little as a few hundred dollars to as much as $3,000 or more.
- Much of the cost is dictated by the distance, which mainly relies on where the vehicle is being shipped to and from within the U.S. and Mexico.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Mexico - Average Cost to Ship a Car to Mexico
To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
---|---|---|---|
New York, NY to (New York port) to Altamira | $275 | $1,600 | 5+12 |
Los Angeles to (California port) to Ensenada | $350 | $2,500 | 5+5 |
Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to Manzanillo | $450 | $2,500 | 5+6 |
Portland, OR to (California port) to Manzanillo | $475 | $2,500 | 6+6 |
Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to Manzanillo | $550 | $2,500 | 6+6 |
Columbus, OH to (New York port) to Altamira | $550 | $1,600 | 5+12 |
Charlotte, NC to (New York port) to Veracruz | $575 | $1,700 | 7+12 |
Chicago, IL to (New York port) to Veracruz | $675 | $1,700 | 7+12 |
Miami, FL to (New York port) to Altamira | $925 | $1,600 | 7+12 |
Dallas, TX to (California port) to Ensenada | $1,025 | $2,500 | 7+5 |
- *Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type or model of vehicle.
- *Additional fees, such as import duties and taxes, may apply when bringing your car to Mexico
- *Save 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.
Understanding the process and legal requirements is essential when preparing to ship a car to Mexico. You must gather the appropriate documentation, complete customs paperwork, and cover any applicable import fees. Partnering with experienced vehicle transport providers who understand Mexico’s import laws helps avoid delays and ensures a smoother transaction.
Before you begin, evaluate your shipping needs and get a precise estimate of international transport costs. Not all shipments are the same—factors like destination, vehicle type, and delivery timeframe all influence the process.
Planning Around Mexico’s Climate
Climate can affect your car shipping to Mexico, especially in areas with extreme weather. The northwest is typically hot and arid, while coastal regions are more humid and rain-prone. Mexico City offers a milder climate, with warm summers and cooler winters. May is the hottest month, and July tends to be the wettest—conditions that could impact delivery schedules.
Aim to schedule your transport during the spring or fall for more predictable weather and fewer delays. Understanding seasonal trends can help you avoid complications during transit.

Navigating Logistics and Customs
Mexico’s customs infrastructure is well-developed, supporting a steady flow of imports, including vehicles. That means year-round shipping is feasible with minimal disruption, especially when working with logistics professionals familiar with the region.
With strong economic ties to the U.S., navigating the transport network in Mexico is relatively straightforward. Whether you're relocating temporarily or permanently, knowing the local import rules and climate conditions can help you plan more effectively.
As always, it would be beneficial to learn about the country's weather patterns to understand any delays that may occur. Traveling and importing goods year-round to the Mexican state is feasible.
It is easy to navigate through Mexico and have positive relations with a country with a strong history and ties with the U.S.
Mexico benefits from increased imports of goods and tourism, so its customs and laws regarding moving and shipping into the country are pretty strong.
Popular Vehicle Shipping Destinations: Car to Mexico Delivered with Ease!
Efficient and Reliable Car Shipping Solutions for a Seamless Car Journey to Mexico
Acapulco | Guadalajara | Monterrey | San Luis Potosi |
Aguascalientes | Guadalupe | Morelia | Tijuana |
Cancun | Hermosillo | Naucalpan | Tlalnepantla |
Chihuahua | Juarez | Nezahualcoyotl | Tlaquepaque |
Chimalhuacan | Leon | Puebla | Torreon |
Culiacan | Merida | Queretaro | Tuxtla Gutierrez |
Ecatepec | Mexicali | Reynosa | Zapopan |
Guadalajara | Mexico City | Saltillo |
Required Documents For Shipping A Vehicle To Mexico - Guide to Exporting Cars to Mexico

- Registration from the country of origin.
- Vehicle purchase invoice.
- Title.
- Passport.
- Proof of ownership.
- Residence permit.
- Visa.
- Bill of lading.
- Driver's license.
- Shipper ID
Visit the Mexico Customs Page for more information regarding this matter. Be sure to reference this page to understand any limitations and/or restrictions you may face upon moving or transporting goods such as automobiles to Mexico.
Mexican banks are typically closed on weekends, which may affect specific steps of the import process. Plan accordingly if payments or documentation need to be processed during your shipment.
For all car shipping to Mexico, you’ll need to prepare your vehicle properly:
- Remove any non-permanent or external accessories, such as spoilers, racks, or detachable electronics, as they may become damaged or cause issues during transport.
- Clear the interior of all personal belongings, especially if using a RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) service. Many carriers require vehicles to be empty inside for safety and compliance.
- Steam-clean the interior to prevent quarantine delays. A clean vehicle reduces the risk of being diverted to a sanitation or quarantine facility, which can significantly slow delivery.
- Drain all air-conditioning gases, as certain chemicals are restricted in international shipping regulations.
These steps help ensure a smoother international vehicle transport experience, minimizing potential delays or damage during transit.
Confirming Your Vehicle’s Eligibility
- If unsure whether your vehicle qualifies for shipment, consult Title 19 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. It provides official guidelines for vehicle exports from the United States.
- Need assistance? A-1 Auto Transport offers global car shipping solutions. Contact us for a no-obligation quote and expert help planning your shipment to Mexico.
- Be sure to remove all air-conditioning gases from your vehicle as well.
- If you are unsure about your vehicle’s shipping status eligibility, refer to Title 19 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations.
- A-1 Auto Transport ships vehicles worldwide. Click here or call 1-800-518-8708 for a free, no-obligation-to-buy price quote to ship your car.

Shipping & Automobile Transportation Methods To Mexico
- Roll On/Roll Off (Ro-Ro) Vehicle Shipping: This is the most commonly used method of carriage that individuals choose to transport their vehicles, including cars, trucks, and other wheeled items. This is a sea carriage method in which vehicles are driven on and off carrier ships using their wheels. Ro-Ro sea vessels are equipped with ramps that assist in moving cars on and off the boat. Essentially, it is a transmitting method suitable for any item that has wheels or can be safely placed on and off wheels, making it the most convenient and cost-effective way to haul vehicles by road and sea, especially when transporting a car to the Mexican Republic.
- Container Car Shipping: Many people who export autos to Mexico also send household goods and belongings there using this service. The car is brought to the customer's house or dropped off at a depot. Customers can choose between renting a private container (often 20 or 40 feet long) and using the extra room to store their belongings or sharing a container with another vehicle and saving money. Added costs result from the increased number of precautions that must be taken.
- Vehicle Shipping Transportation: This is a land-based and land-locked method of haulage, so it generally takes the most time. Cars are insured and routinely inspected throughout the trip, but they must wait for a shipping date to the Mexican state before they begin their journey.

Remember that the vehicle must be transported to a U.S. shipping port before it can begin preparations for shipment to another country, like Mexico. In certain cases, you may be allowed to drive your vehicle to a local port, which will help you cut back on further expenses.
Upon Arrival In Mexico
Once you arrive at your final destination, specific procedures must be taken to ensure the safe arrival of your vehicle into the country.
- Pay the appropriate customs duty and all taxes and fees associated with the shipment.
- Have modifications applied and tested if necessary.
- Apply for identification plate registration and approval with the Bangladesh government.
Once you arrive, acquiring more information about driving rules and regulations in Mexico will undoubtedly benefit you.
- Driving in Mexico: You’ll want to know Mexico's traffic and rules quickly. American and Canadian IDs are valid throughout the state. Remember that there are many travel advisories regarding traveling through some crime-ridden regions of the country, including border towns such as Ciudad Juarez.
Any further questions and concerns can be directed to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico.

Shipping Of Heavy Equipment & Oversized Cargo Vehicle To Mexico
Anyone needing the most excellent, affordable international shipping services is in luck. A1 Auto Transport is a worldwide conveyance company equipped to handle the delivery of nearly anything, including household goods, vehicles, heavy equipment, and oversized cargo. So, we've got you covered if you want to move heavy equipment or oversized cargo from the U.S. to a Mexican state. Some of the equipment we have shipped overseas in the past includes.
Excavators | Cranes | Feller Bunchers | Tractors |
Loaders | Graders | Yachts and Pontoon Boats | RVs |
Engines | Mining Equipment | Asphalt Pavers | Skidders |
Trenchers | Backhoes | Compactors |
It doesn’t matter what you are shipping; we encourage you to call us. We are sure we can find a solution for you. As licensed transport specialists, we provide each customer with insurance coverage according to the state minimum. For additional protection, we offer other insurance plans at low extra costs.

International Shipping Options through A1 - How much does importing a car from Mexico cost?
A1 Auto Transport offers shipping services to those moving large or heavy cargo internationally. Depending on the type of cargo you would like to have delivered to Mexico, only some of our services may be available to you. We can tell you which options are open after you give us details regarding the equipment or cargo you want to ship. Our specialists will guide your decisions and ensure you are well-informed of what’s available. They will even give you their professional recommendations. Here are all the overseas transport methods we have to offer:
- Flat Rack Shipping
- Container Shipping
- Roll On/Roll Off Shipping
- Lift On/Lift Off Shipping
Only one of the above hauling methods is an enclosed service. Container transport costs slightly more than the open-air services available due to the extra security provided. However, to use this method for your cargo’s delivery, it must fit into a 40ft container.
Out of the open-air haulage methods, flat rack transport is the safest. You can ship a car to Mexico with your cargo strapped tightly to a metal frame using this method. Ro/Ro Shipping is the least expensive method, yet it’s only offered to those conveyance operable, functioning equipment and vehicles. Lo/Lo Shipping is for anyone with crated cargo or inoperable equipment that must have a crane lift on the ship.
Other Services: Ship Cars To Mexico
- Overseas Moving Services to Mexico
Related Information & FAQs
- Ship your car to Mexico City with a reliable transport company
- The price of shipping acar to Mexico from the US
- Why should I use professionals to ship a car from the US to Mexico?
- How can I find out the cost of shipping a car to Mexico?
- Is shipping a car to Cancun, Mexico, a good idea?
- How much to legalize a car in Mexico?
- How to ship an ATV to Mexico
- Permanently import a vehicle to Mexico
- Cost of shipping from Mexico to the US
Relevant Statistics
- Over 10,000 cars are shipped to Mexico each year.
- Approximately 85% of car shipments to Mexican states are from the United States.
- On average, it takes 7-10 days for a vehicle to be shipped from the U.S. to Mexico.
- Shipping a car to Mexico ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the vehicle and distance.
- Mexican customs inspects less than 5% of cars shipped into the country.

General Facts
- Shipping a car to Mexico requires proper documentation, including the vehicle's title and registration.
- It is essential to research and comply with Mexican state import regulations and vehicle customs requirements.
- Car transportation to Mexico can be done by land or sea, depending on the location and preference.
- Hiring a professional moving company ensures a smooth and secure process.
- Additional fees, such as import duties and taxes, may apply when bringing an auto into a Mexican state.

Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to ship a car to Mexico?
To ship a car to Mexico, you'll need the vehicle's original title, registration, a valid passport, and a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (TIP) if applicable. Additional documents may include a bill of sale and proof of ownership. It's advisable to consult with a customs broker to ensure all paperwork complies with Mexican import regulations.
Can I ship a financed car to Mexico?
Yes, but you'll need written permission from your lender before shipping a financed vehicle to Mexico. Most lenders require confirmation that the vehicle will be returned or that the loan will be settled before export. It's essential to coordinate with your financing company and ensure all necessary documentation is in order.
Are there restrictions on importing older or used vehicles into Mexico?
Yes, Mexico has specific regulations regarding the importation of used vehicles. Generally, vehicles must be 5 to 10 years old, depending on the region, and must comply with environmental and safety standards. Certain vehicles, such as luxury or sports cars, may face additional restrictions.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Mexico?
Shipping costs vary based on factors like the vehicle's size, shipping method, and origin. On average, shipping a car from the U.S. to Mexico can range from $1,000 to $3,000. Additional fees may apply for customs duties, taxes, and insurance.