Shipping a classic, collectible or exotic car overseas from the US requires careful planning, proper documentation, and an understanding of international shipping regulations. Whether you're a collector, dealer, or individual looking to transport a valuable vehicle abroad, this guide walks you through the essential steps and documentation required for exporting cars via air and sea freight from the United States.
Understanding Your Shipping Options
When exporting a high-value vehicle from the U.S., you generally have two primary shipping methods:
Sea Freight
Container Shipping: Your vehicle is loaded into a 20ft, 40ft or 45ft container, providing maximum protection from the elements and potential damage.
Dedicated Container: Your vehicle is the only cargo in the container
Shared (Consolidated) Container: Your vehicle shares space with other cargo (typically more economical)
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo): Your vehicle is driven onto the vessel, secured on the deck, and driven off at the destination port.
More economical than container shipping
Less protection from elements
Not recommended for extremely valuable classics or exotics
Air Freight
Fastest shipping method (days versus weeks)
Highest level of security and protection
Significantly more expensive (often 3-5 times the cost of sea freight)
Typically used only for extremely valuable vehicles or when time is critical
Essential Documentation Requirements
Regardless of shipping method, you'll need to prepare several important documents:
1. Title and Ownership Documentation
Original Vehicle Title: Must be clear (no liens) and in the exporter's name, signed off from seller to buyer
Bill of Sale: If recently purchased
Authorization Letter: If you're exporting on behalf of the owner
2. U.S. Customs Documentation (for imports and exports)
EEI (Electronic Export Information): Filed through the Automated Export System (AES) for vehicles valued over $2,500 (your freight forwarder, such as us would file it on your behalf)
CBP Form 7501: Entry/Immediate Delivery form (if this is imported to the USA)
Customs Form 3299: Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles (for returning U.S. residents if the vehicle is imported to the US
EPA Form 3520-1: For vehicles less than 25 years old if the vehicle is imported to the US
DOT Form HS-7: Declaration for vehicles being imported
3. Vehicle-Specific Documentation
Vehicle Specifications: Complete details including make, model, year, VIN, engine number, etc.
Vehicle Valuation: Proof of value for insurance and customs purposes
Photos of the Vehicle: Detailed photos documenting condition before shipping
4. Destination Country Requirements
Import License: Many countries require pre-approval to import vehicles (check with your destination Customs Broker on the requirements or if you need a referral, we can provide you one)
Duty and Tax Documentation: Forms for payment of applicable import duties
Environmental and Safety Compliance: Documentation proving the vehicle meets destination country standards
Insurance Certificate: International transit insurance (we can provide you a quote)
Special Considerations for Classic Cars (25+ Years Old)
Classic vehicles have certain advantages when exporting:
Reduced Documentation: Generally requires less paperwork for the clearance at the destination country.
Historical Vehicle Status: Many destination countries offer reduced import duties for vehicles with historical significance (documentation of provenance may be required)
Collector Value Documentation: Appraisals and certificates of authenticity may be required for insurance and customs valuation.
Special Considerations for Exotic Cars
When exporting high-value exotic cars, additional steps are recommended:
Specialized Insurance: Ensure coverage matches the full value of the vehicle
Pre-export Inspection: Professional inspection with documentation
Secure Transport: Door-to-door service with specialized equipment
The Export Process: Step by Step
1. Pre-Export Preparation (4-6 weeks before shipping)
Research destination country requirements
Select a qualified auto shipping company with international experience
Obtain necessary permits and documentation
Schedule vehicle inspection and prepare for shipping
2. Vehicle Preparation (1-2 weeks before shipping)
Clean the vehicle thoroughly (important for agricultural inspections)
Remove personal items (not permitted in vehicle during shipping)
Reduce fuel to ¼ tank or less
Disconnect battery (required for many shipping methods)
Document the condition with detailed photos
3. Customs Clearance (3-7 days before shipping)
Submit all required documentation to your freight forwarder
Complete AES filing (if value exceeds $2,500)
Schedule customs inspection (if required)
4. Transport to Port/Airport
Arrange specialized transport to departure point
Complete carrier inspection and documentation
Secure loading and proper securing of the vehicle
5. International Transit
For Sea Freight:
Transit time: 1-6 weeks depending on destination
Tracking updates throughout transit
Coordination with destination agents
For Air Freight:
Transit time: 1-3 days depending on destination
Customs pre-clearance when possible
Coordination with receiving agents
6. Destination Arrival and Customs
Arrival notification
Destination customs clearance
Payment of import duties and taxes
Compliance inspections as required
Choosing a Shipping Partner
When selecting a company to handle your classic or exotic car export, consider:
Experience: Specialized in high-value and classic vehicle shipping
Insurance Options: Comprehensive coverage for the full value
Documentation Assistance: Help with complex paperwork requirements
Global Network: Established relationships at destination ports
References: Reviews from previous classic/exotic car shipments
Costs to Consider
Shipping costs vary widely based on:
Destination: Distance and specific port/airport fees
Vehicle Size and Weight: Larger vehicles cost more to ship
Shipping Method: Container vs. RoRo vs. Air Freight
Insurance Coverage: Higher value vehicles require more extensive coverage
Additional Services: Door-to-door service, specialized handling, etc.
Customs Duties and Taxes: Vary by destination country and vehicle value
Final Tips for a Smooth Export
Start Early: International vehicle shipping requires significant lead time
Document Everything: Keep copies of all paperwork and communication
Consider Timing: Avoid shipping during extreme weather seasons when possible
Research Destination Requirements Thoroughly: Every country has unique regulations
Use Established Shipping Partners: This is not the time to cut corners on quality
Exporting a classic, collectible or exotic car from the US is a complex process, but with proper planning and the right partnerships, your valuable vehicle can safely reach its international destination while complying with all necessary regulations.
Whether you're sending a rare Ferrari to a European trade show for cars, relocating your classic muscle car collection, or delivering a Lamborghini or Porsche to an overseas buyer, understanding these export procedures will help ensure your prized vehicle arrives safely and legally at its new home.