If you are moving abroad, you already have a lot of things on your plate. Where will you live? Will you have culture shock? How do you get all of your belongings over there? Sometimes, people choose to ship a car overseas so that they do not have to buy another one in their new country. This is a process in itself. Learn more about the steps to take to send your vehicle on its journey.
How-to Prepare to Ship a Car Overseas: Proper Planning
Should You Bring Your Vehicle?
Before you prepare to ship a car overseas, you need to decide if it even makes sense to do so. In some countries like Ireland, the UK, and Australia, cars drive on the left side of the road. While it is possible to do so, it can be challenging to drive a left-hand car on the left side of the road. In some countries, your insurance would be higher by importing a vehicle that was not built to be driven on the appropriate side of the road. If you are moving to a place that drives on the left, you will have to feel out your comfort level with if you would be willing to drive a left-hand drive car instead of a right-hand drive car over there. If not, just wait to get another vehicle once you’re there.
You will also want to make sure your vehicle meets other standards and norms for where you are going. For example, Europe has strict emission laws. Is your vehicle a big gas guzzler? You may have to do some costly modifications to be able to bring it over. The same goes for electric vehicles. Charging plugs are different between different countries and continents. Will you have to make modifications to that as well? Consider both the time and money you may need to invest into these changes. Also, Europe has many narrow streets small parking spaces. A big pickup truck will probably have a hard time fitting in most places and look out of place.
Do Your Research and Prepare
When you begin this process, you will want to research the best company to handle it. Make sure they are licensed and insured, and be certain to do your research. It never hurts to ask around for referrals as well. Get quotes from multiple companies and compare them. There are many different types of packages you will be able to select more. They vary in the amount of time, money and effort you will have to put in yourself. Make sure to understand what you are getting quotes for and the differences in price points.
In order to ship a car overseas, you will need to have the clear original title, copy of bill of sale, and copy of your US Passport. Before you ship it off, you will also want to get your car throughly inspected and take detailed photos of it. Note any dents or dings. Consider getting your vehicle serviced before handing it over as well as getting it washed. Also, make sure your vehicle’s brakes are in good working condition. This will provide maximum safety during the loading and unloading of your car.