Choosing the right International Vehicle Shipping Company

Vehicle Shipping Company: With the cost of living, including the cost of vehicles, spiralling worldwide, it’s becoming increasingly common for people moving internationally to transport their cars to their new host country. This applies equally to Kiwis moving back to New Zealand as those leaving for overseas, as well as people moving between offshore countries.

It’s also becoming cost-effective to find the car of your dreams in another country and get it shipped direct to you, instead of having to find a vehicle through local dealers at a higher markup.

Whatever your motive might be for shipping a vehicle, choosing the right car transport company is crucial for a safe and hassle-free transaction. There are several important factors to consider so you make an informed decision when choosing the right car transport company.

1. Find the best ‘actual’ cost of car transport

When looking for your vehicle shipping company of choice, you’ll find a big difference between the prices that shipping companies offer for their services. A key step is to check for hidden costs that may not be included in the estimate or online quote, such as the landed cost versus the cost to ship it to your door.

Always look for a car transport company that has transparent pricing, including customs duties and taxes, and is upfront about all other charges you’re likely to incur.

2. Check your insurance coverage policy

Car transport, especially from overseas, comes with risks that you’ll need to consider. Even if you have taken out insurance, it’s important to carefully read the details of the policy you get through your chosen car transport company. This is to ensure your vehicle is comprehensively covered for damages during loading, unloading, and transit.

Also, always make sure that transit coverage isn’t limited to the voyage only, but also applies to any road transit that the shipping company does on your behalf to and from the port of load and unload. Additionally, you should check that your insurance coverage is for the correct mode of vehicle transportation, such as enclosed (container) shipping versus Roll On Roll Off (RORO) shipping.

3. Country-specific vehicle shipping considerations

Different countries have different laws and regulations when it comes to transporting your vehicle. For example, in the United Kingdom (UK), you can claim 20% Value Added Tax (VAT) back on VAT-qualifying vehicles. It’s highly recommended you choose a reputable company that offers the service of verifying and handling VAT-related documents and filing the VAT claim on your behalf if you wish to pursue this option.

Some car transport companies work with VAT experts or have representatives on the ground to expertly manage your VAT claim. As the owner of the car, the only due diligence you need to do is check with your chosen shipping company if your vehicle qualifies for VAT and ask for a copy of all VAT documents.

In another example, if you want to ship your car to Australia, you will require an import permit and not all cars can be imported to the country. So, it pays to have a vehicle transport company that knows the ins and outs of shipping to Australia, who can advise you and make sure you have the correct import permit in place.

4. Financing your vehicle transport

Overseas car shipping can be a costly exercise, which is why some shipping companies offer their customers financial assistance, usually through a third party. It’s always worthwhile looking for this service in your chosen car shipping company, as it helps carry the debt while your vehicle is in transit.

To finance a transit, you can expect to pay up to 20% of the total transit cost upfront as a minimum deposit. The balance, plus fees, is usually due just before the vehicle arrives.

 

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