Shipping a car to Hawaii can be overwhelming. If you take it step by step, the process of shipping a car overseas can be made simpler. If you want to know how to, continue reading to know about shipping cars overseas.
Moving cars across the ocean is big, but the process is surprisingly clear-cut. Regardless if you are moving for leisure or work, bringing your car by having it shipped is more convenient. Moreover, many people prefer to ship car from California to Hawaii even if they only plan to stay there for a few months or years.
Overseas Car Shipping Methods
Roll-On, Roll-Off (RORO)
RORO is the most affordable option to have your car shipped overseas. Your car is driven and secured on a ship. Using devices such as clamps, a ratchet, and straps, your car will not move while on transit. Imagine your car is parked in a big parking lot.
What you need to remember when you opt for RORO is that there should be no other items in your car for safety. If there are no extra items in your car, you will less likely have inspections and charges. Moreover, your car needs to be in good condition. You will have to pay extra for towing services if your vehicle is not running.
Even though this is the most cost-effective overseas car shipping method, it is not the most recommended type. That is because your car is in an open area and exposed to various elements and conditions such as rain and wind. Therefore, you will likely worry if your car can be delivered abroad safely.
Car Transport Containers
This is the most famous option for shipping cars in another country. Although this option is more expensive compared to RORO, it is relatively more secure. That is because your car will be shipped inside a protected metal container.
If you want to save more in shipping your car in closed containers, you can avail a shared storage container. Your car will be housed with other vehicles. You can call your car transport company if you have the option to go for a 40-feet shared container rather than a 20-feet sole container.
Air Freight
The last option you have for shipping your car overseas is to have it board a freight aircraft. Nevertheless, using this car shipping method is often very expensive. In many cases, it is more expensive than the car itself.
The best advantage of having your car shipped through this method is you are ensured of safety. One reason for this is that your car will not be subjected to a lot of handling aside from the common loading and unloading. Another good thing about air freight is that it is also the fastest. Rather than waiting for several weeks or months, your car can reach its destination after a few days.
Steps on How to Process Overseas Car Shipping
- Look for car shipping companies within your area of residence. Check the rating and read the reviews of your chosen car shipping companies online to help you narrow down your choices. After making a list, you can contact the companies, ask your concerns, and get a quote.
- When you schedule your car’s transport, you should do it at least 2 months in advance.
- Contact the embassy of the country you plan to have your car shipped. Inquire about the policies they have regarding shipping cars. You need to take down important information and know if digital documentation is available.
- Complete the inspections. Begin collecting the needed documents and pay all the costs related to the shipment. You also need to start preparing the documents needed by the customs of the country you are moving into.
- Clean the interior and exterior of your car. Check the fluids. You have to keep in mind that the fuel amount is not more than a quarter of a tank full. Moreover, if required, fill your tires with air.
- Organize the rides needed to pick up and drop your car off.
The Cost of Shipping a Car Overseas
There is no specific amount for the cost of shipping a car to Hawaii because there are many factors to be considered. Some considerations include the car shipping method, the distance the car will be traveling, and the car shipping company you chose.
To give you a picture, you might need to spend roughly around $1,000 to $2,000 to transport a car overseas. This is not the only payment you need to make, there are still other fees. The price range is the base amount which includes your car’s accommodation while in transit.
How Long It Takes To Ship a Car Abroad
Similar to the cost, there are also factors to consider on the duration of the shipment. For many international shipments, it can roughly take around a week for the car to arrive at its destination after it has been shipped out. If the destination is far, you might have to wait for 1 to 2 months before it arrives. You can ask about the estimated arrival period of your car to your shipping company. They can provide a more accurate timeline considering customs and other possible issues.
Conclusion
Finally, even though your preferred car shipping company will do most of the shipment process for you, you should know what you need to do to make the process easier. Shipping a car in another country needs careful and good planning and preparation.
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