Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a topic category to view the answers for popular questions asked by our customers
All information subject to change. Contact our team at
(888) 805-4994
for assistance, or for a customized quote with your international car shipment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a topic category to view the answers for popular questions asked by our customers
Getting Started
How do I begin the process of shipping my vehicle?
Start by requesting a quote at www.shipoverseas.com or calling our office. Once you accept the quote, you’ll receive a link to complete your Shipping Order online. After submitting your order, we arrange the shipment and send you instructions and required documents.
When should I start preparing to ship my vehicle?
Begin the process 15–20 days before your desired shipping date to allow time to gather documents, confirm vehicle readiness, and schedule trucking if needed.
Who do I contact with questions about my shipment?
Contact the Ship Overseas Inc. office at 858 547 0840 for assistance.
How do I know my quote is still valid?
Quotes are valid for 30 days. Shipments departing after 30 days may incur updated rates.
Documents & Requirements
What documents do I need if my vehicle is paid off?
You will typically need:
- Original title
- Bill of Sale (if recently purchased)
- Copy of passport or driver’s license
- Vehicle registration
What documents do I need if my vehicle has a lien?
You will typically need:
- Original signed and notarized lienholder letter authorizing export
- Notarized copy of the title (front and back)
- If the title is electronic: a certified DMV title record
- Copy of passport or driver’s license
What additional documents do military service members need?
Military service members typically need:
- Copy of passport
- Copy of PCS orders
When do you need my documents?
We require copies of all documents before arranging pickup or providing port delivery instructions.
What is a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO)?
An MSO is a temporary ownership document issued by the dealership for new vehicles before they are titled.
What if I’m missing a required document?
Contact your Customer Service Representative for guidance. In many cases, substitutes or certified DMV records can be used.
Do I get my original documents back?
Yes. After your vehicle sails, U.S. Customs returns your documents to our office. We confirm your address and mail them back to you.
Payments & Billing
When do I pay?
Payment is due once your vehicle is delivered to the terminal or picked up by a trucker.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept:
- Wire transfer
- Cashier’s check
- Personal check (10 business days to clear)
- Credit card (4% processing fee)
Where do I send payment?
Payments are processed through our San Diego, CA office. Payment instructions will be provided with your booking confirmation or invoice.
Vehicle Condition & Preparation
How clean must my vehicle be?
- Exterior: washed and free of dirt
- Interior: vacuumed with only factory installed items inside
How much fuel can be in the tank?
U.S. regulations require no more than ¼ tank of fuel at the time of shipment.
Can I ship a vehicle with minor damage?
Yes. Minor issues like a chipped windshield are acceptable. Non-running vehicles may require special arrangements and additional fees.
Should I remove my license plates?
For RoRo shipments, we recommend removing plates before drop off and reinstalling them at destination, based on local regulations.
Are containers airtight?
No. Temperature and humidity changes can cause moisture buildup. We recommend covering seats and dashboards to help protect against condensation and mold.
Shipping Methods
What is Roll on/Roll off (RoRo) shipping?
RoRo vessels carry drivable vehicles that can roll, steer, and brake. Vehicles are driven on and off the ship and stored below deck, protected from the elements.
What is container shipping?
Your vehicle is loaded into a shared or exclusive container:
- Shared container: More economical; limited personal goods allowed.
- Exclusive container: You may load additional goods; total loss insurance available.
What are container size limitations?
- 20 ft container: ~19.5 ft long, 7.5 ft high, 7.5 ft wide; ~20,000 lb limit
- 40 ft container: ~39.5 ft long, 7.5 ft high, 7.5 ft wide; ~40,000 lb limit
Can I ship trailers or non drivable units?
Yes, if they can be towed onto a RoRo vessel or safely loaded into a container. Additional handling fees may apply.
Personal Items
Can I ship personal items in my vehicle?
- RoRo: No personal items allowed.
- Container: Personal items are allowed but not insured and shipped at your own risk.
What documentation is required for personal items in a container?
You must provide an itemized packing list including:
- Contents of each box
- Total number of boxes
- Value of goods
- Last 6 digits of the vehicle’s VIN
Are undeclared items allowed?
No. Undeclared goods may result in customs penalties at origin or destination, and may delay or prevent release of your shipment.
Insurance
Do you offer Marine Insurance?
Yes. We offer:
- Full cover insurance (vehicles ≤ 8 years old): 1.75% of insured value, $500 deductible. Minimum required coverage is $10,000 USD
- Container shipments: Total loss coverage only.
- RoRo shipments: Only the vehicle is insured; no personal items allowed.
Is insurance required?
Insurance is optional but strongly recommended. Steamship lines typically limit liability to around $500 per shipment.
When does coverage begin and end?
Coverage begins when the vehicle is loaded onto the vessel and ends when you take delivery at destination.
Pickup, Delivery & Tracking
Can someone else meet the trucker for pickup?
Yes. Provide their name, phone number, email, and the pickup address so we can coordinate with them directly.
How do I track my shipment?
Use www.marinetraffic.com and enter the vessel name we provide. You may also call or email us for updates during transit.
What do I need to collect my vehicle at destination?
Requirements vary by country. Contact the local destination agent before arrival. We can provide their contact details upon request so you know exactly what to bring.
Can anyone pick up my vehicle at destination?
Yes, if their name is listed as the consignee. They must present ID, the title, and a permission letter if applicable.
Customs, Duties & Destination Charges
What destination fees should I expect?
Typical destination fees may include:
- Terminal charges
- Customs clearance
- Local handling fees
- Container offloading fees (usually higher than RoRo)
Do I pay import duties or taxes?
It depends on the destination country and your residency status:
- Tourists are often exempt.
- Returning residents may owe duties.
- Military and government employees are often exempt.
What are destination charges for military base ports?
Approximate offloading fees (subject to change) may include:
- About $280 per car
- About $350 per SUV
Who pays for U.S. Customs inspections?
Customs clearance is included in your quote. If a container is pulled for re-inspection, costs are typically shared among all vehicle owners in that container.
Transit Times & Delays
How long does shipping take?
Most shipments take approximately 30–45 days depending on destination, vessel availability, and routing.
Can you guarantee arrival dates?
No. Delays may occur due to:
- Weather
- Port congestion
- Customs delays
- Vessel schedule changes
- Insufficient freight
- Re-routing
Should I book travel based on estimated arrival?
We strongly advise against booking flights or hotels based solely on estimated arrival dates. Always allow extra time for potential delays.
Military Specific Questions
Do you offer military discounts?
Yes. Our rates already include a military discount where applicable. Ask our team for details based on your route and status.
What happens when my vehicle arrives at a military base port?
You’ll pay destination offloading fees and present your military documents to receive temporary tags or base-specific clearance, depending on local rules.
Can military members ship vehicles with liens?
Yes, with an original lienholder permission letter and certified title copies. Additional documentation may be required depending on the lender and destination.
Are military members exempt from taxes?
In many countries, yes. However, exemptions vary by destination and status, so always confirm with the destination customs authority or base transportation office.
Miscellaneous
What is a customs clearance broker?
A customs clearance broker is a licensed agent who processes your vehicle through import formalities. We can provide contact details upon request for many destinations.
What am I allowed to ship?
It is your responsibility to ensure your cargo is permitted in the destination country. Restrictions may apply to:
- Vehicle age
- Left-hand vs. right-hand drive
- New vs. used vehicles
- Personal belongings
Can I request delivery to my base or residence?
Yes. We can arrange forwarding services to your base or residence for an additional fee, depending on local carrier availability and access rules.
How do I begin the process of shipping my vehicle?
Start by requesting a quote at www.shipoverseas.com or calling our office. Once you accept the quote, you’ll receive a link to complete your Shipping Order online. After submitting your order, we arrange the shipment and send you instructions and required documents.
When should I start preparing to ship my vehicle?
Begin the process 15–20 days before your desired shipping date to allow time to gather documents, confirm vehicle readiness, and schedule trucking if needed.
Who do I contact with questions about my shipment?
Contact the Ship Overseas Inc. office at 858 547 0840 for assistance.
How do I know my quote is still valid?
Quotes are valid for 30 days. Shipments departing after 30 days may incur updated rates.
What documents do I need if my vehicle is paid off?
You will typically need:
- Original title
- Bill of Sale (if recently purchased)
- Copy of passport or driver’s license
- Vehicle registration
What documents do I need if my vehicle has a lien?
You will typically need:
- Original signed and notarized lienholder letter authorizing export
- Notarized copy of the title (front and back)
- If the title is electronic: a certified DMV title record
- Copy of passport or driver’s license
What additional documents do military service members need?
Military service members typically need:
- Copy of passport
- Copy of PCS orders
When do you need my documents?
We require copies of all documents before arranging pickup or providing port delivery instructions.
What is a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO)?
An MSO is a temporary ownership document issued by the dealership for new vehicles before they are titled.
What if I’m missing a required document?
Contact your Customer Service Representative for guidance. In many cases, substitutes or certified DMV records can be used.
Do I get my original documents back?
Yes. After your vehicle sails, U.S. Customs returns your documents to our office. We confirm your address and mail them back to you.
When do I pay?
Payment is due once your vehicle is delivered to the terminal or picked up by a trucker.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept:
- Wire transfer
- Cashier’s check
- Personal check (10 business days to clear)
- Credit card (4% processing fee)
Where do I send payment?
Payments are processed through our San Diego, CA office. Payment instructions will be provided with your booking confirmation or invoice.
How clean must my vehicle be?
- Exterior: washed and free of dirt
- Interior: vacuumed with only factory installed items inside
How much fuel can be in the tank?
U.S. regulations require no more than ¼ tank of fuel at the time of shipment.
Can I ship a vehicle with minor damage?
Yes. Minor issues like a chipped windshield are acceptable. Non-running vehicles may require special arrangements and additional fees.
Should I remove my license plates?
For RoRo shipments, we recommend removing plates before drop off and reinstalling them at destination, based on local regulations.
Are containers airtight?
No. Temperature and humidity changes can cause moisture buildup. We recommend covering seats and dashboards to help protect against condensation and mold.
What is Roll on/Roll off (RoRo) shipping?
RoRo vessels carry drivable vehicles that can roll, steer, and brake. Vehicles are driven on and off the ship and stored below deck, protected from the elements.
What is container shipping?
Your vehicle is loaded into a shared or exclusive container:
- Shared container: More economical; limited personal goods allowed.
- Exclusive container: You may load additional goods; total loss insurance available.
What are container size limitations?
- 20 ft container: ~19.5 ft long, 7.5 ft high, 7.5 ft wide; ~20,000 lb limit
- 40 ft container: ~39.5 ft long, 7.5 ft high, 7.5 ft wide; ~40,000 lb limit
Can I ship trailers or non drivable units?
Yes, if they can be towed onto a RoRo vessel or safely loaded into a container. Additional handling fees may apply.
Can I ship personal items in my vehicle?
- RoRo: No personal items allowed.
- Container: Personal items are allowed but not insured and shipped at your own risk.
What documentation is required for personal items in a container?
You must provide an itemized packing list including:
- Contents of each box
- Total number of boxes
- Value of goods
- Last 6 digits of the vehicle’s VIN
Are undeclared items allowed?
No. Undeclared goods may result in customs penalties at origin or destination, and may delay or prevent release of your shipment.
Do you offer Marine Insurance?
Yes. We offer:
- Full cover insurance (vehicles ≤ 8 years old): 1.75% of insured value, $500 deductible. Minimum required coverage is $10,000 USD
- Container shipments: Total loss coverage only.
- RoRo shipments: Only the vehicle is insured; no personal items allowed.
Is insurance required?
Insurance is optional but strongly recommended. Steamship lines typically limit liability to around $500 per shipment.
When does coverage begin and end?
Coverage begins when the vehicle is loaded onto the vessel and ends when you take delivery at destination.
Can someone else meet the trucker for pickup?
Yes. Provide their name, phone number, email, and the pickup address so we can coordinate with them directly.
How do I track my shipment?
Use www.marinetraffic.com and enter the vessel name we provide. You may also call or email us for updates during transit.
What do I need to collect my vehicle at destination?
Requirements vary by country. Contact the local destination agent before arrival. We can provide their contact details upon request so you know exactly what to bring.
Can anyone pick up my vehicle at destination?
Yes, if their name is listed as the consignee. They must present ID, the title, and a permission letter if applicable.
What destination fees should I expect?
Typical destination fees may include:
- Terminal charges
- Customs clearance
- Local handling fees
- Container offloading fees (usually higher than RoRo)
Do I pay import duties or taxes?
It depends on the destination country and your residency status:
- Tourists are often exempt.
- Returning residents may owe duties.
- Military and government employees are often exempt.
What are destination charges for military base ports?
Approximate offloading fees (subject to change) may include:
- About $280 per car
- About $350 per SUV
Who pays for U.S. Customs inspections?
Customs clearance is included in your quote. If a container is pulled for re-inspection, costs are typically shared among all vehicle owners in that container.
How long does shipping take?
Most shipments take approximately 30–45 days depending on destination, vessel availability, and routing.
Can you guarantee arrival dates?
No. Delays may occur due to:
- Weather
- Port congestion
- Customs delays
- Vessel schedule changes
- Insufficient freight
- Re-routing
Should I book travel based on estimated arrival?
We strongly advise against booking flights or hotels based solely on estimated arrival dates. Always allow extra time for potential delays.
Do you offer military discounts?
Yes. Our rates already include a military discount where applicable. Ask our team for details based on your route and status.
What happens when my vehicle arrives at a military base port?
You’ll pay destination offloading fees and present your military documents to receive temporary tags or base-specific clearance, depending on local rules.
Can military members ship vehicles with liens?
Yes, with an original lienholder permission letter and certified title copies. Additional documentation may be required depending on the lender and destination.
Are military members exempt from taxes?
In many countries, yes. However, exemptions vary by destination and status, so always confirm with the destination customs authority or base transportation office.
What is a customs clearance broker?
A customs clearance broker is a licensed agent who processes your vehicle through import formalities. We can provide contact details upon request for many destinations.
What am I allowed to ship?
It is your responsibility to ensure your cargo is permitted in the destination country. Restrictions may apply to:
- Vehicle age
- Left-hand vs. right-hand drive
- New vs. used vehicles
- Personal belongings
Can I request delivery to my base or residence?
Yes. We can arrange forwarding services to your base or residence for an additional fee, depending on local carrier availability and access rules.