Get a 20% discount from our partners! Discount code will get added automatically when you submit the form. 
The most economical method to ship a car to Europe is typically through roll-on/roll-off (RORO) shipping, which, on average, costs between $1,500 and $5,000 and can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days from start to finish. This method is favored for its cost-effectiveness and simplicity, although it may offer a different level of protection than container shipping.
Shipping a car to Europe involves several substantial expenses and logistical considerations. The process can seem overwhelming, with costs from freight fees, insurance, and customs duties, all of which require careful consideration and planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping experience.
Understanding the Factors that Affect Shipping Costs
Numerous elements significantly shape the final cost of shipping a car to Europe. The size and weight of the vehicle in question can tremendously influence the price. Larger and heavier vehicles require more space and effort to ship, resulting in higher costs. Another crucial element to consider is the departure and arrival points. The farther the distance between these two points will inevitably lead to an increase in the shipping fees. Also, fluctuating fuel prices could greatly sway the overall expense of shipping.
Insurance is another factor to bear in mind. Notably, it might be more economical to insure your vehicle through the shipping company rather than taking on this responsibility individually. Your vehicle's value will directly influence the insurance cost, with higher-value cars garnering higher insurance premiums. The shipping method, containerized or roll-on-roll-off, also contributes to the final cost, with the former being more expensive due to its additional protection. Lastly, import taxes and duties assigned by the destination country could add significantly to the overall cost of shipping a car to Europe.
Choosing the Most Economical Shipping Method
Several options are available when selecting the most cost-effective method for shipping a car to Europe. Firstly, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping, where the car is driven onto the ship and secured on the deck. This method is often the most affordable, as it does not require a container or crating. However, it may not be suitable for all types of vehicles, and it doesn’t offer the highest level of protection as the car is exposed to weather conditions and potential damage during loading and unloading.
On the other hand, container shipping provides additional protection, given the car is safely enclosed in a strong metal container. This proves beneficial for high-value or classic cars that need extra care. This method can be slightly more expensive than RoRo shipping because of the additional costs involved, including loading, unloading, and renting the container. Although more expensive, container shipping might be a valuable investment when safety and protection are paramount.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing a shipping method, you should consider factors like the size and weight of the car, the destination, the type of shipping service you want (like door-to-door or port-to-port), and any additional services you might need (like expedited shipping or insurance).
You can reduce costs by comparing quotes from different shipping companies, choosing the most economical shipping method, and avoiding unnecessary services. Also, shipping during off-peak seasons can sometimes result in lower prices.
Hidden costs include customs duties and taxes, insurance, storage fees, and extra charges for additional services. Ask the shipping company for a detailed quote, and read the fine print carefully.
The most economical method usually involves shipping by sea, as it's generally cheaper than air freight. However, this can vary depending on the shipment's specifics, so it's best to get quotes for different methods and compare them.
Use a reputable shipping company that offers insurance to ensure your car's safety. It's also a good idea to remove any valuables from the car before shipping and to prepare the car properly for transport (for example, by disconnecting the battery and securing any loose parts).
Share on Facebook 
Share on LinkedIn 
Share on Twitter 
