Frontal aerial view of Grimaldi Lines RoRo vessel sailing
Ship a Car to Europe from USA
Call Us For a Quote: 1-858-547-0840
How to Ship a Car to Europe

Shipping a car from the USA to Europe can seem overwhelming, but with Ship Overseas, the process is straightforward and stress-free. With nearly 40 years of experience, we guide you step-by-step to ensure a successful experience. You can start by getting a free quote, providing details like the car’s Year/Make/Model, Pickup Zip Code or Departure Port, and the Destination Country in Europe. Ship Overseas services cover a wide range of European countries, from Albania to the UK.

The cost of shipping a car to Europe starts at $790 and varies based on factors such as the departure location in the USA (East Coast is cheaper than West Coast), the size of the vehicle (compact cars are cheaper than SUVs or trucks), and whether you drop off the car at the port or opt for a pickup service. While dropping off the car yourself is more affordable, having it picked up is more convenient, though you’ll need to arrange your own travel back home if you choose to meet at the port. Ship Overseas offers reliable support and detailed information to make the process seamless.

Cars unloading from Wallenius RoRo ship

Why Choose Ship Overseas?

Decades of Expertise – No guesswork, just reliable shipping.
Transparent Process – Clear communication at every step.
Competitive Pricing – Fair rates with no hidden fees.
Real-Time Tracking – Monitor your vehicle’s journey

 

Ready to Ship?

Get your free quote today and let us handle the rest!

Get Quote to Ship Car to Europe
Shipping a Classic Car or Truck to Europe?
Specialized Transatlantic Classic Vehicle Logistics
For nearly 40 years, Ship Overseas has managed high-value vehicle transport across the Atlantic with white-glove precision. Classic, vintage, and antique vehicles require a completely different tier of operational care than standard automobiles. Whether you are importing an investment-grade sports car or moving a personal classic collection, we ensure seamless customs management and total transit security.
European Transport Options & Regulation Compliance
Your classic car’s safe arrival in Europe depends on choosing the correct loading method and navigating the strict entry rules of destination ports like Bremerhaven, Antwerp, or Rotterdam.
 
Primary Transport Routing:
Shared Container Consolidation: Your vintage vehicle is securely blocked and braced inside an enclosed container, splitting ocean freight costs.
Sole-Use 20ft/40ft Containers: Complete isolation and dedicated space reserved exclusively for your vehicle and loose spare parts.
Enclosed Nationwide Ground Transport: Fully weather-protected flatbed towing directly from any US residence or auction house to our loading facility.
 
European Union Customs & VAT Benefits:
The 30-Year Rule: Vehicles over 30 years old meeting historical criteria often qualify for significantly reduced import duties and lower local VAT rates.
Title & Customs Clearance: Original US titles, matching bills of sale, and foreign registration histories are meticulously cleared through US Customs before sailing.
 
Get a transparent breakdown tailored to your vintage vehicle’s exact specifications using our calculator.
European Ports We Ship To

Albania: Duress

Belgium: Antwerp, Zeebrugge Learn more…

Croatia: Rijeka

Denmark: Copenhagen

Estonia: Paldiski

Finland: Helsinki, Kotka

France: Fos Su Mer, Le Havre Learn more…

  • Customs duties and VAT collected at the port of entry

Germany: Bremerhaven Learn more…

  • Destination handling charge: €150
  • EU member country: 10% duty + 19% VAT if owned <1 year
  • Transit through EU: 30% deposit refunded after registration

Italy: Civitavecchia, Livorno, Monfalcone, Naples, Palermo, Salerno, Savona Learn more…

  • Italian citizens: Own vehicle for 1 year to avoid 11% duty + 20% VAT
  • Non-Italians: One auto duty-free with proof of ownership and use for 1 year
  • Vehicles imported duty-free cannot be sold for 1 year

Lithuania: Klaipeda

Netherlands: Amsterdam, Rotterdam Learn more…

Norway: Drammen

Poland: Gdynia

Portugal: Lisbon

Romania: Constantza

Russia: St Petersburg

Serbia and Montenegro: Bar

Slovenia: Koper

Spain: Barcelona, Segunto, Vigo Learn more…

  • Proof of living in USA for 1+ year and owning the vehicle for 6 months to avoid customs taxes

Sweden: Gothenburg, Malmo Learn more…

Switzerland: Basel, Geneva, Zurich Learn more…

  • Duty-free if owner used the car for 6+ months overseas
  • New cars subject to VAT, duty, and statistical tax

UK: Liverpool, Southampton Learn more…

  • Import duty varies by vehicle type (passenger vs. commercial)
  • VAT: 20% based on purchase price

Ukraine: Odessa

US Departure Regions to Europe

We provide weekly commercial Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and shared container shipping lines serving the European continent. Select a specific US departure port below to view dedicated transit corridors, schedules, and terminal guidelines.

US East Coast Terminals

The highest-frequency transatlantic lane. Ideal for direct, fast RoRo transport and container consolidation entering major North Sea and Western European hubs like Bremerhaven, Antwerp, and Southampton.

US Gulf Coast Terminals

Strategic southern lane routing connecting the South, Midwest, and Texas oil fields directly with European Mediterranean, UK, and North Sea maritime hubs for classic cars and heavy equipment.

US West Coast Gateway

Specialized secure container loading lanes transiting through global shipping channels. Provides reliable routing for cars originating on the Pacific Coast bound for inland Western Europe and Scandinavia.

Our Shipping Methods to Europe
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping
Heavy machinery driving onto RoRo ship for international transport
Best for operational vehicles
  • Most cost-effective option
  • Fixed schedules like airlines
  • Weather-protected transport
Shared Container Shipping
Multiple heavy machinery pieces loaded in shared shipping container
Best for budget-conscious shippers
  • Split costs with others
  • Can include personal items
  • Works for non-running vehicles
Exclusive Container Shipping
Valuable heavy machinery secured in private shipping container
Best for high-value vehicles
  • Maximum protection
  • Private container space
  • Ideal for luxury/classic cars
How to Ship a Car to Europe

Shipping a car from the USA to Europe can seem overwhelming, but with Ship Overseas, the process is straightforward and stress-free. With nearly 40 years of experience, we guide you step-by-step to ensure a successful experience. You can start by getting a free quote, providing details like the car’s Year/Make/Model, Pickup Zip Code or Departure Port, and the Destination Country in Europe. Ship Overseas services cover a wide range of European countries, from Albania to the UK.

The cost of shipping a car to Europe starts at $790 and varies based on factors such as the departure location in the USA (East Coast is cheaper than West Coast), the size of the vehicle (compact cars are cheaper than SUVs or trucks), and whether you drop off the car at the port or opt for a pickup service. While dropping off the car yourself is more affordable, having it picked up is more convenient, though you’ll need to arrange your own travel back home if you choose to meet at the port. Ship Overseas offers reliable support and detailed information to make the process seamless.

Cars unloading from Wallenius RoRo ship

Why Choose Ship Overseas?

Decades of Expertise – No guesswork, just reliable shipping.
Transparent Process – Clear communication at every step.
Competitive Pricing – Fair rates with no hidden fees.
Real-Time Tracking – Monitor your vehicle’s journey

 

Ready to Ship?

Get your free quote today and let us handle the rest!

Get Quote to Ship Car to Europe
Marine Insurance (Recommended):
1.75% of vehicle value (full coverage)
1.25% (total loss only)
Customizable coverage (50-100% of value)
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to ship my vehicle to Europe?

You will need the original title, a copy of your passport, and a bill of sale. For some European countries, additional documents like a certificate of conformity may be required. Our team will provide you with a complete checklist based on your specific destination.

How long does it take to ship a car to Europe?

Shipping times vary depending on the destination port and shipping method. On average:

– Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) service: 2-4 weeks

– Container shipping: 3-6 weeks

– Air freight: 1-2 weeks (most expensive option)

Customs clearance can add an additional 3-10 business days depending on the country.

What are the costs involved in shipping a vehicle to Europe?

The total cost depends on several factors including vehicle size, shipping method, destination, and insurance. Typical costs range from $1,000 to $3,500 for standard vehicles. This includes:

– Ocean freight charges

– Port fees at origin and destination

– Customs clearance fees

– Documentation fees

We provide all-inclusive quotes with no hidden fees.

Can I ship personal belongings inside my vehicle?

This depends on the shipping method and destination country regulations. For container shipping, you can typically include some personal items (usually up to 100 lbs). For RoRo shipping, no personal items are allowed inside the vehicle. All personal items must be declared and may be subject to additional customs duties.

What insurance coverage is provided during shipping?

We provide basic marine insurance coverage at 0.3% of the vehicle’s value. You can upgrade to comprehensive coverage for additional protection. Our insurance covers damage during ocean transit but doesn’t cover mechanical failure or pre-existing damage. We’ll provide full details of coverage options when you get a quote.

How do I prepare my vehicle for shipping?

We recommend:

1. Wash your vehicle thoroughly (for inspection purposes)

2. Remove all personal belongings

3. Disable the alarm system

4. Leave about 1/4 tank of fuel

5. Take photos of your vehicle from all angles

6. Remove any custom parts that might protrude

Our team will provide a complete preparation checklist when you book your shipment.

Additional Shipping Services
Ready to Ship Your Car to Europe?

Get your free, no-obligation quote today, or contact Ship Overseas at (858) 547-0840 for personalized assistance in shipping your car.