Between 2015 and 2018, 14 million light-duty vehicles from the US were transported worldwide. If you are relocating abroad or planning to ship a car to a family member, the cost involved in shipping a car overseas is a major concern. It inculcates multiple additional charges in addition to the base rate, and you need to be aware of them.

If you want to grasp the whole understanding of these shipping charges, read on.

Car Shipping Cost Overseas

The cost of shipping a car overseas typically varies between$850 - $4500. However, take into account that this stipulated cost range isn’t inclusive of regulatory fees and customs duties. The price range fluctuates depending upon several factors listed below.

• Mode of Shipping
• Total Distance
• Pickup & Delivery location
• Vehicle type
• Vehicle size
• Port Regulation

Major Costs Associated with Shipping Cars Overseas

Base Rate

Base rate is the starting cost associated with transporting the car overseas. It only includes the transportation charges from the origin to the destination port. Port handling fees, fuel surcharges, and customs duties aren’t included in the base rate. This rate is primarily determined by the shipping method.

Bunker Adjustment Factor

The cost of overseas car shipping largely depends on the fuel charges. Fluctuations in these fuel prices are passed on to the shippers via the bunker adjustment factor (BAF), which is a surcharge added to the base rate. BAF fluctuates as per the global oil prices and the bunker fuel cost. 

Monitoring the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) price indicators can help you anticipate the potential surcharges so that you can plan your car shipments strategically when the fuel prices are lower.

Port & Terminal Charges

Port & terminal charges typically include: 

• Wharfage fees (charges imposed for using the equipment & infrastructure at the wharf)
• Terminal handling charges ( These are the charges levied by shipping terminals for positioning, storage, and the loading/unloading process) 
• Port security fees (The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This code establishes measures to ensure security at the ports. The port security fee is charged as a result of the implementation of these security measures.)

These charges vary depending on carrier agreements and origin & destination ports. The Federal Maritime Commission monitors these tariffs & oversees these surcharges. In order to ensure transparency in these imposed charges, carriers are required to publish these tariffs.

Vehicle Weight, Size & Dimensions

The shipping charges are interlinked with the vehicle’s weight, size & dimension. It is because they directly affect the fuel consumption and the carrier’s capacity. Heavier vehicles occupy more space, which significantly raises the price. Similarly, larger dimensions require specialized equipment, deviating the shipping process from the standard shipping procedure. 

Custom Duty

You can inquire from the destination port about the customs duty, as you are liable for it. Your shipping company can also provide you with this information. Tax percentage is based on your car’s value. A luxury car implies a higher tax.

Additional Factors Influencing the Shipping Charges

Marine Cargo Insurance

It is an optional add-on offered by the carriers, which, if availed, can impact the shipping cost. Although it increases the shipping bill, it safeguards your car against any potential financial loss. Skipping this will expose you to significant loss in case of an unforeseen incident, especially if you are dealing with the transportation of luxury cars.

Peak Season Surcharges Imposed by Carriers

Peak seasons are characterized by a surge in shipping volume. Resultantly, carriers increase the shipping charges owing to the high demand and limited supply. This happens typically during the summer or spring season or during the holiday period. These charges can overall raise the shipping cost. Furthermore, weather risks can also add to the cost.

Port Congestion Surcharges 

When destination ports face congestion resulting from labor shortage or high cargo traffic, it leads to delays and extended vessel waiting times. Shipping lines then pass these charges to the customer to compensate for the delays. Surcharge is typically determined by the weight of the vehicle.

Currency Adjustment Factors

It is imposed by shipping lines to evade the risk of currency exchange rate fluctuations between the time a rate is quoted & the payment is received. Since shipping overseas involves multiple currencies, sudden changes in the exchange rate can lead to financial loss for the carrier. To avoid this, a currency adjustment factor is imposed on the base rate. 

Price Variations In Accordance with the Mode of Shipping

The factor that determines how much charges are required to transport a car overseas depends greatly on the mode of shipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is shipping a motorcycle overseas feasible?

Yes, you can easily ship a motorcycle overseas by contacting a reputable and reliable carrier.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Car Overseas?

There isn’t any fixed cost as it varies with numerous factors. However, a general estimate is between $850-4500.