Do you want to ship your vehicle from the USA to St. Thomas?
Shipping A Car To St. Thomas
Typical Shipping Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- Typical shipping costs for transporting a car from the U.S. to St. Thomas range from $1,600 to $3,600.
- Costs will vary based on the vehicle's type, size, weight, and point of origin within the United States.
St. Thomas is one of the islands contributing to the archipelago, the US Virgin Islands. Because it is a US territory, the rules and regulations regarding importing a vehicle from the US are not nearly as stringent as those for shipping overseas internationally. However, it is still crucial that you work with a reputable auto export company to ensure the smoothest process possible.
Determining whether or not it is cost-effective to ship your car to St. Thomas is in your best interest. Transportation throughout the island can be challenging without a vehicle, as public transportation is minimal and taxis are expensive. There is also a significant dealer markup on cars sold on the island, so you will probably find that as long as your car can handle the somewhat rough terrain of St. Thomas, it is worthwhile to bring it with you.
Required Documents For Dispatching A Vehicle
- Current Registration
- Bill of Lading
- Vehicle Title (or notarized permission from lien holder allowing the vehicle’s transport)
- Current US Driver’s License
- Bill of Sale/Commercial Invoice (if available)
- Passport
- Proof of registration
Steps of Procedure:
- After arriving with your vehicle in St. Thomas, you must pass through Customs. No duty fees will be owed if your car is manufactured in the United States. If you are unsure, check the VIN. VINs beginning with 1, 4, or 5 are from the US and, therefore, are not obligated to pay duty. If the VIN starts with 2 or 3, the duty is 6% of the vehicle’s value as determined by either the bill of sale or the current blue book calculation. If the VIN begins with six or a letter, the duty is 3.5% of the vehicle’s value.
- You must now bring the Bill of Lading provided by your shipping company (www.a1autotransport.com) to the Internal Revenue Office (http://www.vibir.gov/) to pay the road tax, which is currently 16 cents per pound (vehicle weight). Please keep your receipt; you will need it to register your vehicle.
- Before you can move your vehicle from the dock, you will need to obtain auto insurance. After your insurance is in place, you must request a moving permit from the Department of Motored Vehicles (http://www.usvibmv.org/). The fee for this permit is $5 and will allow you to transport an unregistered vehicle to the DMV to complete an inspection and proceed with registration.
- The vehicle must then pass an inspection by the DMV before you can register it. You must present all the previous documents in the shipping procedure, including proof of insurance.
You can use your stateside driver’s license for a grace period of 90 days to allow you time to obtain a valid Virgin Islands driver’s license. To get your new license, you will only need to trade in your current stateside permit and not be required to take any tests.
Because St. Thomas is considered a US territory, the official language is English. Shipping your vehicle can be a breeze without a language barrier. Enlist the help and support of a great auto transport company, and ALWAYS remember to drive on the left.
Understanding Vehicle Import Requirements in St. Thomas
Importing a vehicle into St. Thomas involves specific requirements to ensure compliance with local regulations. Vehicles must meet U.S. emission standards and pass a safety inspection upon arrival. A road tax of $0.16 per pound applies to all imported vehicles. It's essential to have the original title and proof of ownership ready for customs clearance. Engaging with a knowledgeable shipping company can help navigate these requirements smoothly.
Navigating Driving Conditions in St. Thomas
Driving in St. Thomas presents unique challenges due to its terrain and road infrastructure. The island's roads are often narrow and winding and may lack shoulders, requiring drivers to be cautious and alert. Additionally, vehicles drive on the left side of the road, which can be an adjustment for those accustomed to right-side driving. Understanding these conditions is crucial for a safe driving experience on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to ship a car to St. Thomas?
To ship a car to St. Thomas, you'll need the original vehicle title, bill of sale, and a government-issued ID. If there's a lien on the vehicle, a notarized letter from the lienholder authorizing export is also necessary. Ensure all documents are in order to facilitate smooth customs clearance.
How long does it take to ship a car from the U.S. mainland to St. Thomas?
Transit times typically range from 14 to 25 days, depending on the departure port and shipping method. Weekly sailings from Florida ports are common, but factors like weather and port congestion can affect delivery times.
Are there restrictions on the types of vehicles I can import into St. Thomas?
Yes, vehicles must meet U.S. emission standards and pass a safety inspection upon arrival. Additionally, cars older than five years may require special exemptions. It's advisable to verify current regulations with the Virgin Islands authorities before shipping.
What taxes and fees should I expect when importing a car to St. Thomas?
Importing a car to St. Thomas involves a road tax of $0.16 per pound based on the vehicle's weight. U.S.-manufactured vehicles are exempt from import duties, but foreign-made cars may incur a 6% duty on the vehicle's value.
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