Ship Car to San Salvador with Trusted International Shipping Services

Car Shipping San Salvador

El Salvador's capital is the country's most populous city and municipality. It is a cultural, financial, and educational hub, so the government is increasingly populated by foreigners and expatriates.

If you plan on moving here for a few months or a couple of years, having your vehicle with you can give you the freedom of movement.

However, many specifications and requirements must be fulfilled before the vehicle can be imported to the Area. First, it is mandatory to possess an original and clear title. If the car is under a lien, you must present a letter authorizing the vehicle to be shipped abroad.

Import Regulations and Vehicle Eligibility

El Salvador enforces strict guidelines on vehicle imports to maintain safety and environmental standards. As of 2025, the country permits the importation of light vehicles manufactured from 2017 onwards. Heavy passenger vehicles must be 2015 or newer, and heavy cargo vehicles must be 2010 or newer. Exceptions exist for classic or antique cars over 30 years old, which may qualify under specific conditions.

All imported vehicles must also comply with El Salvador's safety and emissions standards. This includes having functional airbags and seat belts and meeting environmental regulations. Non-compliant vehicles may face entry denial or require costly modifications.

Required Documentation for Importation

Proper documentation is crucial for the import process. Importers must provide:

• Original vehicle title and registration
• Commercial invoice detailing the vehicle's value
• Bill of lading
• Import permit from Salvadoran authorities
• Proof of compliance with safety and emissions standards

Failure to present accurate and complete documentation can result in delays, additional fees, or refusal of entry .

Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to San Salvador

*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 allows for faster shipments. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

Motor vehicle regulations.

To export your vehicle to this place, the U.S. Customs will ask you to drop it off at the pier. It will likely be shipped out after 72 hours. This time is enough to check the vehicle's proficiency and verify the documents. It will also give El Salvador Customs time to ensure that nothing has been placed in the vehicle after going through an initial inspection.

If you plan to drive to the Area, you might have to reconsider it. The roads between the Southern US and El Salvador are not appropriately maintained, and some junctions are dangerous. That is why it is best to ship your vehicle by freight shipping with the assistance of A1 Auto Transport Company. You can easily import your car efficiently and safely. You must be present in this country to complete the auto shipment process. You need to be present in the Area when the vehicle arrives and submit the proper identification upon arrival to clear customs. These include:

• Title deed.
• Insurance and registration certificate.
• Bill of Lading.
• Invoice of vehicle purchase.
• Passport and photo ID of the owner.
• Permit to import.
• Listed vehicle details- VIN, chassis/engine number, model, and year of manufacture.

The cost of shipping includes the RORO and container shipping methods. If you have an expensive vehicle, container shipping is best, and if you are just shipping the car, RORO works best. You must oversee the process and ensure that A1 Auto Transport service is with you at every step. The company plays a pivotal role in this entire procedure, and we will help you and your car after arriving in the Area.

Costs associated with cargo

El Salvador works on the Central American Tariff Service. Since vehicles are considered commodities, there is a 13% tax on them. In addition to VAT, you have to pay 30% of your vehicle’s present CIF value, depending on the make, year, and model.

Auto conveying

The auto shipping company must be licensed and bonded through the Federal Maritime Commission. This offers a greater protective level and ensures that the firm receives a higher licensure level. A1 AT was stolen from the vehicles, which can be an issue. The cars shipped via container shipping and RORO must be cleaned and have an empty gas tank, as mentioned by the U.S. Customs. You can contact the Embassy of El Salvador to learn more about cargo in the area.

Shipping Methods and Considerations

Two primary shipping methods are available:

• Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): Vehicles are driven onto the ship and secured for transit. This method is cost-effective but exposes the vehicle to environmental elements.
• Container Shipping: Vehicles are placed inside a shipping container, offering protection from weather and potential damage. While more expensive, this method is preferred for high-value or classic cars .

The choice between RoRo and container shipping depends on budget, vehicle type, and desired protection level during transit.

Customs Duties and Taxes

Importing a vehicle into El Salvador incurs various fees, including:

• Import Duties: Based on the vehicle's value, typically ranging from 5% to 30%.
• Value-Added Tax (VAT): Standard rate of 13% applied to the vehicle's value plus import duties.
• Environmental Tax: Additional fees may apply depending on the vehicle's emissions and engine size .

It's essential to calculate these costs beforehand to avoid unexpected expenses.

Final Thoughts

Successfully shipping a car to San Salvador requires careful planning and adherence to El Salvador's import regulations. You can facilitate a smooth import process by ensuring your vehicle meets eligibility criteria, preparing accurate documentation, selecting the appropriate shipping method, and accounting for all associated taxes and fees. Consulting with experienced international auto transport professionals can further streamline the experience and provide peace of mind.