Ship Car To Vanuatu


Car Shipping Vanuatu
Typical Hauling Prices – How Much Does It Cost?
- In most cases, shipping a car to Vanuatu from the U.S. costs between $2,300 and $5,100.
- Since the Republic is made of several islands that form a chain, costs can vary depending on where in the U.S. the car is shipped from and its specific destination.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Vanuatu
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Vanuatu | $350 | $3000 | 22+5 |
| Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to the Area | $550 | $3000 | 22+6 |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to the City | $775 | $3000 | 22+7 |
| Portland, OR to (California port) to Vanuatu | $475 | $3000 | 22+6 |
| Boston, MA to (New York port) to City Limits | $400 | $8000 | 34+5 |
| Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to Vanuatu | $700 | $8000 | 34+6 |
| New York, NY to (New York port) to the Area | $275 | $8000 | 34+5 |
| Memphis, TN to (New York port) to Vanuatu | $800 | $8000 | 34+6 |
| Detroit, MI to (New York port) to the island | $575 | $8000 | 34+6 |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to Vanuatu | $1,025 | $3000 | 22+7 |
*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 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.
If you are considering exporting a car to Vanuatu, you should know some basic information about the process to ensure a smooth transition. it is an island country located east of Australia.
Vanuatu’s currency is the Ni-Vanuatu (VU, VUT, or VT), and the current exchange rate hovers around USD 1 for 93.60 VUT. The two major shipping ports in the area are Port Vila and Santo.

Popular Importing Destinations
Expected Costs and Required Documents
Shipping a car to Vanuatu is possible, and the costs are not as high as in other Oceanic locations. The duty tax is based on several factors relating to the vehicle's size and overall engine capacity. Vanuatu does not charge an excise tax. The duty and tax rates are as follows:
- There is a standard 12.5% value-added tax (VAT)
- The duty rate is between 15-30% based on the previously outlined factors
- 15% for golf carts and similar vehicles.
- 15% for a vehicle with a cylinder capacity below 1,000cc
- 20% for a vehicle with a cylinder capacity between 1,000 and 1,500cc
- 25% for a vehicle with a cylinder capacity between 1,500 and 3,000cc
- 40% for a vehicle with a cylinder capacity higher than 3,000cc
- 30% if your vehicle falls into the ‘Other’ category
- 10% for commercial vehicles that do not exceed 5 tons
- 15% for commercial vehicles that do exceed 5 tons

Required Documents For Dispatching A Vehicle To Vanuatu
- The name and address of the importer (supplied by your shipping company)
- The name, country of origin, quantity, and description of the vehicle
- The value of the vehicle (invoice if new, estimated value if used)
- A certificate declaring all info to be valid
- Vehicle title and registration, proof of ownership, and other supporting documents are highly recommended to make the transfer seamless.
- Passport
- Bill of lading
Other documentation may be required, so you should contact your shipping company to ensure you have all the necessary information. The government prohibits the importation of right-hand-drive vehicles unless proper clearance is obtained.
Carrying Methods
We offer various shipping methods to Vanuatu. The two most popular options are roll-on, roll-off, and container methods.
- Roll on, Roll off: The roll-on, roll-off method is one of the most popular. Your vehicle is driven onto the ship, securely held in place, delivered to the port of choice, and then driven off the boat. For this method to be viable, your vehicle must be operable. If you elect to use this shipping method, you cannot store personal items in your car.
- Container Shipping may be the best method for shipping personal belongings with your vehicle. Your vehicle and personal belongings will be securely held in place and stored in a shipping container.
Moving Of Heavy Equipment & Oversized Cargo
The simplest and most efficient way to ship heavy equipment or oversized cargo from the U.S. to Vanuatu is by hiring a qualified, experienced transport company. At A1 Auto Transport, we’ve been helping people nationally and internationally ship their vehicles, heavy equipment, oversized cargo, and more for about 30 years. We have access to the most reliable transport equipment and modern shipping technology. Our staff members are also very familiar with compliance with import policies and how to appease Customs for the certificate of import approval. Due to our efforts, we can deliver all kinds of heavy equipment or oversized cargo anywhere in the world.
If you’re wondering if what you need to ship would be considered “heavy” or “oversized” cargo, you can call in and ask the professionals at A1 or look at the list below.

Types of Oversized Cargo and Heavy Equipment We Can Ship to Vanuatu
- Cranes
- Combines
- Forklifts
- Harvesters
- Pontoon Boats
- Yachts
- RVs
- Motorhomes
- Tractors
- Air Drills
- Cold Planers
- Bulldozers
- Log Loaders
- Pneumatic Rollers
- Skid Steer Loaders
- Skidders
- Pavers
- Excavators
- Backhoes
- Boom Lifts
- Crawler Loaders
- Heavy Trucks
- Motor Graders
- Mowers
- Scissor Lifts
- Trenchers and more…

All of Our Methods for Heavy Equipment and Oversized Cargo
The type of cargo you’re shipping will determine which of the four international haulage methods are available to you. Our trained representatives will go over your options with you after you provide them with a few details, but if you’re curious as to what overseas transport methods we offer, here are some facts about each one…
- Container haulage is the most secure overseas transport method since it protects your cargo within metal walls and a ceiling. To use this method, your cargo, whatever it may be, must fit into a 40-foot moving container.
- Flat Rack haulage is an inexpensive open-air service that involves securing cargo to a metal frame before placing it on the boat.
- Roll-on/Roll-off Shipping is the most affordable option. Your large or heavy vehicle or equipment must be driven or rolled onto and off the ship.
- Lift-on/Lift-off Moving is recommended for those with inoperable vehicles or crated cargo. For this open-air service, a crane lifts the cargo onto the ship.
Relevant Statistics
- Approximately 600 cars are shipped to Vanuatu every year.
- It has seen a 30% increase in car imports over the past five years.
- More than 80% of the cars shipped to Vanuatu come from Australia and New Zealand.
- The average cost to ship a car to the area is around $2,500.
- Vanuatu implements strict emission standards, making 95% of imported cars hybrid or electric vehicles.
General Facts
- Shipping a car to Vanuatu involves transporting a vehicle from one location to Vanuatu, an island nation in the South Pacific.
- The process typically requires hiring a conveyance company specializing in international vehicle transportation.
- Cars are usually shipped to Vanuatu via container or roll-on/roll-off (RO-RO) vessels.
- Certain documents, such as the vehicle's title, registration, and import permits, may need to be prepared and submitted before shipping.
- Once the car arrives in Vanuatu, customs and clearance procedures must be followed before it can be legally driven on the islands.
Valuable Resources
Vanuatu Duty Rates
Related Information & FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I ship a car to Vanuatu from the United States?
You can ship a car to Vanuatu using roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping or container transport through major U.S. export ports such as Los Angeles or Oakland. The vehicle is delivered to the port, inspected, and loaded onto an ocean vessel bound for Port Vila or Luganville. Transit typically takes 25–40 days, depending on sailing schedules and port connections. RoRo is the most affordable option, while containers provide additional protection and space for personal items. Learn more about international options through international car shipping services.
How long does vehicle shipping to Vanuatu take?
Most shipments to Vanuatu take 25–40 days in total transit time. This includes U.S. port processing, ocean transit across the Pacific, and unloading at Port Vila or Santo. Ships usually depart from West Coast ports such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, or Seattle. Delays can occur due to weather, port congestion, or limited sailing schedules, since Vanuatu receives fewer cargo vessels than major global hubs. Planning shipments 3–4 weeks in advance helps secure space and avoid schedule delays.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Vanuatu?
Shipping a vehicle to Vanuatu usually costs $2,500–$6,500, depending on vehicle size, shipping method, departure port, and fuel surcharges. Smaller cars shipped via RoRo are typically cheaper, while SUVs or container shipments increase the price. Costs also vary based on seasonal demand and port handling charges. Insurance coverage and customs documentation may add to the total. For a clearer estimate based on distance and vehicle type, use a reliable international shipping cost calculator.
What documents are required to ship vehicles to Vanuatu?
Shipping a vehicle to Vanuatu typically requires the original vehicle title, bill of sale or commercial invoice, valid photo ID, and export documentation filed with U.S. Customs. The car must also pass vehicle inspection and export clearance procedures before leaving the port. Once it arrives in Vanuatu, import duties, VAT, and local registration may apply depending on the vehicle’s age and engine size. International carriers usually guide customers through paperwork during the vehicle shipping process.
Can I ship personal belongings inside my car to Vanuatu?
Personal items are generally not allowed inside vehicles shipped via RoRo, because shipping lines require empty vehicles for safety inspections. If you need to transport household goods along with your car, container shipping is the better option. A shared or dedicated container allows limited personal items packed securely with the vehicle. Customs officials may inspect the contents upon arrival, so items must be properly declared and documented to avoid delays or additional import fees.
Is roll-on roll-off shipping available for cars going to Vanuatu?
Yes, roll-on/roll-off shipping (RoRo) is one of the most common ways to transport cars to Vanuatu. With this method, the vehicle is driven directly onto a specialized cargo vessel and secured on the ship’s deck. RoRo is typically 15–30 percent cheaper than container shipping, making it popular for standard vehicles. However, the car must be operational and cannot contain personal belongings. Learn more about pricing and logistics for RoRo vehicle shipping.

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