
Move your Vehicle To Warsaw
Warsaw is the capital and largest city of Poland. Just 190 miles away, the Carpathian Mountains provide a backdrop. The city is situated on the banks of the Vistula River, which drains into the Baltic Sea. It is a hub of trade, economy, business, and culture, which is why there are a host of expatriates here on study or work visas.
Having your own vehicle imported to Warsaw from the USA is incredibly convenient for faster commuting and staying independent. However, as with any auto shipment, you must file paperwork, adhere to regulations, and pay the requisite fees. When moving your vehicle, you need to consider the weather conditions in Poland. The winters are harsh and cold, while the summers are mild and a better time to ship.
What to Know Before Shipping a Car to Warsaw
Shipping a vehicle from the U.S. to Warsaw, Poland, is a wise choice for expats, international students, or business travelers who want the freedom of personal transportation. But before making arrangements, it's crucial to understand Poland’s import requirements and local regulations. Your car must be legally compliant, adequately documented, and adapted to European road standards.
Import Costs, Documentation, and Compliance
Poland applies several taxes when importing a car. These include a 10% customs duty, 23% value-added tax (VAT), and an excise tax that varies based on engine size—larger engines are taxed at a higher rate. All of these charges are calculated based on the total value of your vehicle, including the shipping and insurance costs.
You’ll also need to gather essential documents like the vehicle title, bill of sale, proof of ownership, valid identification, and Polish-recognized insurance. Non-Polish documents must be translated by an official translator. Once your vehicle arrives, it must pass a technical inspection to meet safety and emissions standards. Adjustments like converting headlights or updating the speedometer to kilometers per hour may be required.
Estimated Cost & Time for Delivery
To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
---|---|---|---|
New York, NY to (New York port) to City limits | $275 | $3150 | 5+28 days |
Los Angeles to (California port) to Warsaw | $350 | $3850 | 5+39 days |
Local area to (California port) to Las Vegas, NV | $450 | $3850 | 5+39 days |
Local Delivery to (California port) to Portland, OR | $475 | $3850 | 6+39 days |
Seattle, WA to (California port) to the area | $550 | $3850 | 6+39 days |
Warsaw to (New York port) to Columbus, OH | $550 | $3150 | 5+28 days |
City limits to (New York port) to Charlotte, NC | $575 | $3150 | 6+28 days |
Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to The Area | $700 | $3150 | 6+28 days |
Local area to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $3850 | 7+39 days |
Warsaw to (New York port) to Houston, TX | $1,075 | $3150 | 7+28 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.
*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.

Transportation methods
There are only two ways of freight shipping: Roll-on/Roll-Off (RORO) and Container shipping. Both of these methods are safe and commonly used for cargo shipping. However, container shipping is more expensive, as your vehicle is secured and sealed within a 20-foot or 40-foot shipping container. You are allowed to keep your personal belongings within the container.
RORO is the cheapest way to ship your vehicle to Warsaw. The car is secured on the open deck, and to avoid theft and pilferage, you are not allowed to keep any personal items. It is best to steam clean the vehicle before hauling and ensure the car jack, floor mats, and spare keys are left within it.
Choosing the Right Shipping Method
There are two main options for getting your car to Warsaw: roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping or container transport. RoRo is a more cost-effective solution for standard vehicles, while container shipping provides extra protection, which is ideal for high-value or classic cars. Shipping costs typically range from $1,100 to $2,800, depending on the method, vehicle type, and departure port.
For the smoothest experience, work with a professional auto transport company specializing in international shipments to Poland. They’ll help guide you through customs, paperwork, and scheduling, ensuring your car arrives in Warsaw safely and without unnecessary delays.
Documentation for Auto-hauling
When relocating internationally to Poland, a host of documentation must be submitted and verified for the vehicle to enter Warsaw legally. Some of the essential documents include:
- Clear title deed.
- Bill of Lading.
- Purchase invoice with details of the car.
- The owner’s passport and driving license.
- Resident or work permit.
Your vehicle will be shipped to Gdynia, the Polish port, and then driven to Warsaw, about 200 miles away. Poland is part of the European Union and has the same assessment of levies and taxes. Diplomats and returning citizens returning to Warsaw qualify for tax exemptions and duty-free imports, as the vehicle is considered a household good. To get an idea of the import duty on standard vehicles, it is 10% with VAT of about 23%. There is a border tax, which varies according to the engine capacity.
Final Thoughts
Shipping a car to Warsaw can be a practical and cost-effective decision if you're staying long-term or want the convenience of your vehicle. While the process involves several steps, like understanding taxes, completing documentation, and passing inspections, it becomes far more manageable with the proper preparation and support. By partnering with an experienced international auto transport provider, you can ensure a smoother, more reliable experience from the U.S. to Poland. With the details handled professionally, you’ll be ready to hit the roads of Warsaw confidently.
Additional considerations
Additionally, you must submit the documents and inform the Customs department about the ‘Import Declaration’ that you have owned the vehicle for over 6 months in the US before importing it to Warsaw. You can contact the Polish Customs Department for information on eligibility, limitations, and other auto import regulations.
Other Services
- Moving to Warsaw

Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car to Warsaw from the U.S.?
Shipping a car to Warsaw typically ranges from $1,900 to $4,100, depending on factors like vehicle size, transport method (RoRo or container), and the U.S. port of departure. The vehicle is usually shipped to Gdańsk port and then transported inland to Warsaw by bonded carrier.
What is the average transit time for shipping a car to Warsaw?
The average transit time is between 4 to 7 weeks. This includes ocean freight to Gdańsk port and subsequent inland haulage to Warsaw.
What taxes and duties will I need to pay when importing a car into Poland?
Importing a car into Poland involves several fees:
Customs Duty: Typically 10% of the vehicle's CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
Value Added Tax (VAT): 23% applied to the sum of the CIF value and customs duty.
Excise Duty: 3.1% for engines up to 2000 cm³ and 18.6% for engines above 2000 cm³.
Can I ship a non-running car to Warsaw?
Yes, non-operational vehicles can be shipped to Warsaw, but they require special equipment like winches for loading and unloading. This may incur additional fees, so it's crucial to inform the shipping company about the vehicle's condition upfront.