Ship Car to San Salvador with Trusted International Shipping Services

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Regional Considerations

  • Atlanta car shipping costs range from $600–$1,200, influenced by vehicle type, distance, and open vs. enclosed carrier selection.
  • Standard delivery to or from Atlanta takes 3–7 days, with expedited services available for high-demand urban routes.
  • All carriers must be FMCSA-compliant, offering verified insurance, DOT registration, and documented vehicle inspections at pickup and drop-off.
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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 .

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Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to San Salvador

To/FromGroundOceanEstimated Time
New York, NY to (New York port)
to the Area
$275$40505+33 days
Los Angeles to (California port)
to the Area
$350$27505+22 days
City Limits to (California port)
to Las Vegas, NV
$450$27505+22 days
Local Delivery to (California port)
to Portland, OR
$475$27506+22 days
Seattle, WA to (California port)
to the Area
$550$27506+22 days
City Limits to (New York port)
to Columbus, OH
$550$40505+33 days
Local Delivery to (New York port)
to Charlotte, NC
$575$40506+33 days
Atlanta, GA to (New York port)
to the Area
$700$40506+33 days
City Limits to (California port)
to Denver, CO
$775$27507+22 days
Local Delivery to (New York port)
to Houston, TX
$1,075$40507+33 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.

vessel full of stacked containers crossing blue ocean

*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.

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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:

container terminal and vessel
  • 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.

vessel in the port

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are required to ship my car to San Salvador?

To ship your car to San Salvador, you'll need the original vehicle title, a bill of sale, a valid passport, and a bill of lading. Additionally, a Certificate of Emissions Compliance is required for used vehicles, and a Certificate of Compliance for new vehicles. Both documents must be authenticated by the Salvadoran Consulate in your country of origin. 

How long can I keep my foreign-registered car in El Salvador?

Foreign tourists can temporarily import their vehicles into El Salvador for up to 180 days. This period was extended from the previous 60-day limit to accommodate longer stays. 

What are the typical costs involved in shipping a car to San Salvador?

Shipping costs vary based on factors like the vehicle's size, shipping method, and origin. On average, prices range from $1,200 to $2,500. Additional expenses may include import duties, taxes, port fees, and insurance. 

Is insurance mandatory for my car upon arrival in El Salvador?

Yes, El Salvador mandates that all vehicles have valid insurance coverage while in the country. Third Party Liability (TPL) insurance is required, covering up to $5,000 USD. This coverage must be obtained locally upon arrival. 

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Elena Rivera
Quick Delivery and Smooth Process
★★★★★

I had my car picked up on a Tuesday and by Friday, it was already in San Salvador, right to my door. The driver was punctual and professional, and everything from scheduling to delivery went without a hitch. Couldn’t have asked for a more efficient experience.

Sam Torres
Delivered on Budget and On Time
★★★★★

They quoted me a fair price for the shipment, and stuck to it. The car was picked up and delivered within six days, with no damage and exactly as promised. I appreciated that I could include a bit of personal cargo too, which made things more convenient.

Lars Mikkelsen
Great Service and Clear Updates
★★★★★

Communication was steady and helpful from beginning to end. The driver kept me posted during both pickup and drop-off, and everything was handled with care. I was happy with the door-to-door delivery and would definitely consider using them again.

Monique G.
Delivery Was Fine, But Not Truly Door-to-Door
★★★★★

The service wasn’t quite as seamless as I expected; they couldn’t reach my exact location, and I had to meet them elsewhere. What rubbed me the wrong was the driver asking for a tip via text afterward. That part felt slightly off, but at least the car arrived safely.

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A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

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