Blog Post

Transporting your car to Europe involves critical steps to comply with regional regulations and minimize costs. Europe presents a plethora of opportunities for Americans to explore diverse countries and cultures. A crucial decision is determining if it’s practical or possible to bring your car along. The success of shipping your car to Europe hinges on three main factors: completing the necessary paperwork, securing the proper insurance, and adhering to local laws and regulations. Continue reading to discover whether obtaining an auto shipping quote to the EU suits your needs.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Transporting Your Vehicle to Europe

Considering a European adventure, a pivotal choice you’ll face is deciding between shipping your car overseas or utilizing local transport. This decision significantly influences your budget and overall travel experience. In the following, we dissect the benefits and drawbacks of taking your own vehicle across European landscapes. Carefully evaluate these factors to determine the most suitable option for your trip.

Advantages of Shipping Your Car to Europe:

• Familiarity with Your Vehicle: Driving your own car eliminates the guesswork associated with renting. You’re familiar with its performance and maintenance history, providing peace of mind.
• Cost-Effectiveness: For those planning extended stays, shipping your car could be more economical than incurring long-term rental fees.
• Guaranteed Availability: You won’t face the inconvenience of rental shortages, which are common during peak travel seasons, by having your vehicle with you.
• Comfort in Challenging Conditions: Operating your own vehicle can lessen stress and decrease the likelihood of accidents on unfamiliar roads.

Disadvantages of Shipping Your Car to Europe:

• Higher Costs and Complications: The expenses and logistics of shipping can be prohibitive, perhaps nullifying the benefits of access to your own car.
• Efficient Public Transportation: With the availability of extensive and efficient public transportation systems in many European countries, the necessity for a personal vehicle diminishes.
• Expert Local Drivers: Relying on local transportation can minimize accident risks, as local drivers are adept at navigating their terrain and understanding traffic laws.
• Additional Expenses: Possessing a car in Europe means facing ongoing costs, including fuel, tolls, and parking charges.

Essential Documentation for Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Navigating customs requires careful preparation, especially when it involves paperwork mandated by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). To ensure a smooth process, it’s advisable to contact CBP in advance to confirm the specific documents needed. Typically, you will be asked to present:

• A government-issued ID, such as your driver’s license.
• Proof of vehicle ownership, which could be a title, bill of sale, or a notarized lien authorization.
• The vehicle identification number (VIN).
• Detailed information about the vehicle, including its model, make, and year.
• Contact details for both the shipper and receiver.

For a seamless inspection and clearance by CBP, all documents should be provided in duplicate and submitted no later than 72 hours prior to shipping. Our previous blog post delves deeper into the intricacies of international car shipping documents, including insurance, the bill of lading, and the necessity of signing multiple contracts to ensure your vehicle is protected throughout its journey.

Another critical step is obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is recognized as valid identification in 150 countries and can be indispensable where your U.S. license might not suffice. The IDP, which costs about $20 and is translated into 10 languages, can greatly facilitate driving in foreign countries, helping you to avoid potential fines or legal issues. Only two organizations, the National Auto Club and the American Automobile Association, are authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue the IDP. Visiting either organization is a requisite step to securing this important document.

Navigating Insurance for EU Travel

When it comes to insuring your vehicle for a trip to the EU, there are two essential categories of coverage: one that safeguards the vehicle during transit and another that protects both the vehicle and its occupants throughout the tour. Choosing a shipping company that carries adequate insurance for international transport of your specific vehicle type is crucial. Ensure that this coverage is included in their auto shipping quote.

For those driving rare or particularly high-value vehicles, it’s wise to consider augmenting the shipper’s coverage with additional insurance. The maximum payout from the shipper might not fully cover potential damages incurred during transit.

Bear in mind that it’s highly unlikely your American auto insurance will extend coverage to European territories. Moreover, insurance requirements vary across the EU, complicating the process of meeting the necessary criteria as you travel from one country to another.

It’s advisable to contact your current auto insurance provider to inquire about temporary coverage options for the European countries you plan to visit; however, note that some insurers may only offer international insurance in the case of a permanent relocation.

For further guidance, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or the U.S. embassy in your destination country can offer valuable advice on insurance. Additionally, our previous blog post delves deeper into overseas shipping insurance, covering types of coverage, limits, and the risks of foregoing it, providing a comprehensive overview for travelers.

Navigating International Concerns While Driving Abroad

Adapting to foreign weather conditions is crucial when driving abroad. Your vehicle may require new tires and/or windshield wipers to cope with the variations in temperature and precipitation levels. Furthermore, familiarizing yourself with the local traffic regulations is essential, as the European Union (EU) has its own set of road rules. The European Commission’s GoingAbroad app simplifies this process, offering easy access to these regulations.

Before transporting your car to Europe, it’s vital to investigate the specific vehicle and emissions standards of your destination. American vehicles may not automatically comply with these standards, risking entry denial. To avoid this, modifications to your vehicle’s emission system might be necessary, potentially increasing your costs significantly. Consulting with the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can provide further guidance on meeting the vehicle requirements of foreign countries.

The current regulation allows an unregistered American vehicle to remain in Europe for up to six months, which is generally adequate for most visits, assuming the car is used exclusively for personal purposes (without lending, hiring, or selling) and you are not an EU resident. Should you wish to extend your stay beyond six months, EU registration of your vehicle is mandatory, along with the payment of applicable fees, including import duties.

FAQ About Shipping Your Car to Europe 

Can you ship a car overseas without a title?

Typically, shipping a car overseas necessitates having a title, a crucial document for customs clearance in many destinations, including Europe, to verify the vehicle’s ownership and legal status.

Can cars be shipped by plane?

Cars can be transported via air freight, offering a much quicker alternative to sea transport, albeit at a significantly higher cost.

Is it more expensive to buy a car in Europe?

Purchasing a car in Europe may incur higher costs because of elevated taxes and fees, although these expenses differ according to the country and the vehicle model.

What is the cheapest way of international vehicle transport?

The most cost-effective method for international vehicle transport is typically through roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping, where vehicles are directly driven onto the vessel and securely fastened on the cargo deck.

Contact Safe Car Hauling

Safe Car Hauling Auto Transport, a reputable and highly rated auto broker, specializes in connecting you with reliable vendors for car transportation across the contiguous United States, as well as to Hawaii and Alaska. For a complimentary quote, feel free to reach out to us online or call our toll-free number at any time.