Ship Car to Porto with Trusted International Service
Car Shipping Porto
Porto is the second-most densely populated city in Portugal. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and is situated on the banks of the Douro River. Towards the west of the city is the Atlantic Ocean coastline, leading to scenic beaches and a blue sea. The city is a popular retirement and employment destination.
Thus, whether you are in Porto on vacation, to work, study, or to return home, commuting in and around the city is easy when you have your transportation.
Shipping Methods and Costs
Shipping a car to Portugal typically costs between $1,595 and $3,500, depending on the vehicle's size, shipping method, and port of origin. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) is cost-effective, while container shipping offers added protection for high-value cars. Transit times vary, with ocean freight taking approximately 15–30 days.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Porto
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA to (California port) to Porto | $200 | $3200 | 5+32 days |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Porto | $350 | $3200 | 5+32 days |
| Porto to (California port) to Portland, OR | $475 | $3200 | 6+32 days |
| Porto to (California port) to Seattle, WA | $550 | $3200 | 6+32 days |
| Columbus, OH to (New York port) to Porto | $550 | $2500 | 5+21 days |
| Porto to (New York port) to Charlotte, NC | $575 | $2500 | 6+21 days |
| Porto to (New York port) to Atlanta, GA | $700 | $2500 | 6+21 days |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to Porto | $775 | $3200 | 7+32 days |
| Porto to (New York port) to Memphis, TN | $800 | $2500 | 6+21 days |
| Houston, TX to (New York port) to Porto | $1,075 | $2500 | 7+21 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.
Import Taxes and Exemptions
When importing a vehicle into Portugal, be prepared for taxes such as the Imposto Sobre Veículos (ISV), which can be up to 10%, and the Value Added Tax (VAT) at 23%. However, certain exemptions apply. If you've owned your car for over six months and are relocating to Portugal, you might qualify for tax exemptions, provided you meet specific residency and documentation requirements.
Registration and Compliance
Upon arrival in Porto, your vehicle must comply with Portuguese regulations. This includes obtaining a Certificate of Conformity, passing a vehicle inspection, and registering with the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT). Ensure all documentation is to avoid delays and additional costs.
*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.
Different aspects of importing the vehicle
For tourists, you can import your vehicle and drive it for 6 months within a year if it is registered in your name and only your family uses it. Additionally, it is essential that the vehicle is insured and you have an international driving license. However, those moving temporarily or permanently to Porto must register the car after 180 days. To do this, you need to have a residency permit. However, it is essential to remember that any vehicle conforming to the EU standards can pass the tests and inspections at Portugal.
After 180 days of import, you are legally required to apply for a residency permit and a local driving license. As per the Portuguese Customs Department, if you are importing a used vehicle, there is no VAT applicable, but if you sell the car within 12 months, you will need to pay it. Every 5 years, you can import one vehicle duty-free into Portugal.
Types of transport
Ocean-bound freight shipping is the only way to ship your vehicle to Porto. Being a port, it is faster to get the car, but you need to be present to get the authorized delivery. You can drive the vehicle only after all the formalities and legal procedures are completed. However, the method you select to ship the car also affects the cost. The two methods of shipping include:
- RORO: The roll-on/Roll-Off method involves driving the car on the deck and securing it in the parking bay. This is the cheapest way of shipping the vehicle. However, you are not allowed to keep any personal belongings inside the vehicle, and you cannot leave the air conditioning gas inside the car. It has to be drained. At Porto, the vehicle has to be driven off the ship.
- Container shipping is an expensive option. The car and other household goods that you need to move will be sealed inside a 20-foot or 40-foot container, which will be loaded and unloaded at Porto.
Required documents for vehicle registration
All cars must be issued an ‘All-in-one” card. This is the vehicle’s log book, registration, and license plate tag. It needs to be there in the car at all times. After you receive the ‘All-in-one’ card, you can get a new Portuguese license plate issued. The registration of the vehicles is done at the Civil Registry office. However, it is essential to remember that all documents must be in Portuguese. The government–aided Citizen Shops can help you translate the documents into Portuguese. The local bureaucracy deals in the local language, so it is best to have some assistance. You can contact the Portuguese Embassy in USA for more information.
Other Services
- Moving to Porto
Final Thoughts
Shipping your car to Porto opens the door to more freedom and convenience as you settle into one of Portugal’s most historic and vibrant cities. From navigating daily errands to exploring coastal routes along the Atlantic, having your vehicle makes life in Porto more flexible and enjoyable.
Planning, understanding tax implications, choosing the best shipping method, and preparing your documents can avoid unnecessary delays and costs. A professional international auto transport company can guide you through each step, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely, legally, and ready for the road. Whether relocating permanently or planning an extended stay, shipping your car to Porto is a wise investment in comfort and mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to Porto, Portugal?
Shipping a car to Porto usually costs between $1,100 and $2,300 from the U.S. Price depends on shipping method (RoRo vs container), vehicle size, departure port, and seasonal carrier demand. Container shipping costs more but offers added protection. Port fees, customs handling, and Portuguese taxes are separate. For broader pricing factors, see our international car shipping guide.
How long does it take to ship a car to Porto from the U.S.?
Transit time to Porto typically ranges from 16 to 26 days after vessel departure. East Coast ports like New York or Baltimore are faster than Gulf or West Coast routes. RoRo shipping often moves quicker than containers, which may face port consolidation delays. Customs clearance in Portugal can add several days depending on documentation accuracy.
What documents are required to import a car into Porto, Portugal?
You will need the original vehicle title, proof of ownership, passport or residency ID, and a Certificate of Conformity or technical inspection. Portuguese customs also require an import declaration and IMT registration forms. Missing or incorrect documents are the top cause of clearance delays. Full requirements are outlined in our international car shipping services resources.
Are there tax exemptions when importing a car to Portugal through Porto?
Yes. If relocating to Portugal, you may qualify for exemption from VAT and ISV taxes under residency transfer rules. You must have lived outside the EU for 12 months, owned the vehicle for 6 months, and keep it for at least 12 more months after import. Exemptions are granted once per person every ten years.
Should I choose RoRo or container shipping for Porto, Portugal?
RoRo shipping is the most economical option for standard vehicles and runs on fixed schedules to Portugal. Container shipping costs more but is preferred for high-value, classic, or modified cars due to added security. The right choice depends on vehicle value, condition, and risk tolerance. Learn more about options in our international car shipping by sea overview.
Can I ship a non-running car to Porto, and does it cost more?
Yes, non-running vehicles can be shipped to Porto, but costs are typically $300 to $600 higher. These vehicles require winch loading and specialized port handling. Most non-operational cars must ship by container rather than RoRo. Advance disclosure is required to avoid port refusal or rebooking delays.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
Dave C. 
Courtney J. 
Jeff D. 
Maria L. 
