Exporting Vehicles from the United States: What to Expect

Every vehicle exported from the United States requires the original title to be presented to customs in advance of loading, together with an electronic export filing. Missing that window means the vehicle rolls to the next sailing.

Roll-on/roll-off is the cheaper option for running vehicles and the default for most destinations. Containerisation costs more but protects the vehicle, allows spare parts to travel with it and suits destinations without RoRo terminals.

Destination rules decide what is worth buying. Many markets restrict vehicle age, steering side or emissions standard, and some require pre-shipment inspection by an appointed agency. Confirm these before bidding, not after.

Photograph and document condition before loading. An inspection report with timestamped images is the simplest way to resolve any dispute about damage in transit.