When planning to ship a vehicle to France, understanding the complete cost structure is essential for proper budgeting and avoiding unexpected expenses.
Whether you're relocating, purchasing a classic European car, or expanding your automotive business into the French market, this comprehensive guide breaks down all the costs associated with shipping a car to France.
The foundation of your car shipping budget starts with the base transportation costs, which vary depending on your chosen shipping method.
Container shipping provides maximum protection for your vehicle during international transit:
Port-to-Port Container Shipping: $1,050–$1,800 per vehicle
Destination Fees: Starting at $600, depending on the receiving agent in France
Consolidated Container Options: Save up to 50% by sharing container space with other vehicles
Container shipping is ideal for high-value vehicles, classic cars, or non-operational vehicles requiring maximum protection during transit.
For operational vehicles where cost efficiency is prioritized:
Base RoRo Shipping: Typically ranges from $900–$2,000 per vehicle
Additional Port Charges: Vary by destination port in France
Handling Fees: May apply for oversized vehicles
RoRo shipping generally offers a more economical option for standard vehicles in good running condition, though it provides less protection than container shipping.
For urgent timelines or ultra-high-value vehicles:
Premium Pricing: Typically 5-10 times higher than ocean shipping options
Expedited Transit: Reduces shipping time from weeks to days
Enhanced Security: Minimizes handling and exposure risks
While significantly more expensive, air freight provides the fastest and most secure transportation option for time-sensitive or extremely valuable vehicles.
Beyond shipping costs, you'll need to budget for French customs duties and taxes:
Import Duty: 10% of the vehicle's value
Value Added Tax (VAT): 19% applied to the combined total of:
Vehicle value
Shipping costs
Import duty
For classic vehicles over 30 years old:
Import Duty: Exempt (0%)
Reduced VAT: Only 5.5% instead of the standard 19%
This significant tax advantage makes France an attractive destination for classic car imports, potentially saving thousands on larger transactions.
Several other factors can influence your total shipping expense:
East Coast Departures: Lower costs and shorter transit times (2-3 weeks sailing)
West Coast Departures: Higher costs and longer transit times (5-10 weeks sailing)
Inland Transportation: Additional fees apply for vehicle collection from non-port locations
Size and Weight: Larger or heavier vehicles incur higher shipping costs
Value: Higher-value vehicles typically require more comprehensive insurance
Condition: Non-running vehicles require special equipment for loading and unloading
Modifications: Vehicles with aftermarket modifications may require special handling
Protecting your vehicle during international transit is crucial:
Standard Liability: Limited to $500 per the Carriage of Goods at Sea Act
Cargo Damage Protection: Optional comprehensive coverage based on vehicle value
Deductibles: Typically range from 1-2% of the insured value
Most standard auto insurance policies don't cover international shipping, making additional cargo protection highly recommended for valuable vehicles.
Proper documentation is essential for smooth customs clearance:
Export Customs Clearance: Processing of export documentation
Bill of Lading: Legal document for international shipping
Destination Documentation: Preparation of import paperwork
Customs Broker Fees: Professional assistance with customs procedures
Working with an experienced shipping partner like West Coast Shipping can streamline this process and help avoid costly delays.
Beyond the obvious expenses, several potential hidden costs should be factored into your budget:
Cleaning: Thorough cleaning required for customs inspection
Mechanical Preparation: Ensuring proper condition for transport
Fluid Reduction: Reducing fuel and other fluids to required levels
Storage Fees: If you can't collect your vehicle immediately
Compliance Modifications: Potential adjustments to meet French standards
Registration Costs: Fees associated with registering your vehicle in France
Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Can impact final costs when paying in different currencies
International Transaction Fees: Bank charges for currency conversion
Payment Method Surcharges: Some payment methods may incur additional fees
When deciding whether to ship your car to France or purchase locally, consider these financial factors:
Total Shipping Costs: $2,000–$4,000 for most standard vehicles
Import Duties and Taxes: 10% duty plus 19% VAT (or reduced rates for classics)
Compliance Modifications: Potential additional expenses
Secondhand Cars in France: Generally more expensive than in the US
French Car Market: Different model availability and pricing structure
Long-Term Value: Familiar vehicle vs. adaptation to new market
For many relocating to France, shipping a car can be more economical than buying locally, especially for higher-value or classic vehicles.
Purchase price in US: Approximately $25,000 for a well-maintained example
Container shipping to France: $1,050-$1,800
Destination fees: $600
Import duty: $0 (exempt as classic car over 30 years old)
VAT (5.5% on vehicle + shipping): Approximately $1,500
Total landed cost in France: $28,150-$28,900
1965 Ford Mustang with similar condition in France: €35,000-€45,000 ($38,500-$49,500)
No shipping or import costs
Total cost in France: $38,500-$49,500
In this specific case, importing a classic 1965 Ford Mustang from the US would save approximately $10,000-$20,000 compared to purchasing the same vehicle directly in France.
This example demonstrates why classic cars over 30 years old are particularly economical to import, as they benefit from:
No import duty (compared to 10% for newer vehicles)
Reduced VAT rate of only 5.5% (compared to 19% for newer vehicles)
Typically lower purchase prices in the US market
Strong demand and higher valuation in the European market
For more information on shipping classic cars to France, visit our ultimate guide to shipping cars to France.
Several approaches can help reduce your overall shipping expenses:
Shared Container Space: Reduces per-vehicle costs by up to 50%
Flexible Timing: Allowing for consolidated shipment scheduling
Volume Discounts: Available for multiple vehicle shipments
Off-Peak Shipping: Avoiding summer and holiday seasons
Advance Booking: Securing space 6-8 weeks in advance
Flexible Delivery: Allowing for optimal routing and scheduling
Le Havre: Generally the most cost-effective French port
Direct Routes: Choosing ports with direct shipping connections
Inland Transportation: Balancing port costs with final destination proximity
To illustrate typical costs, consider these example scenarios:
Container shipping: $1,200
Destination fees: $600
Import duties and taxes: $3,000 (based on $15,000 vehicle value)
Insurance and documentation: $500
Total approximate cost: $5,300
Container shipping: $1,800
Destination fees: $600
Import duties: $0 (exempt as classic)
VAT: $1,500 (5.5% on $25,000 value plus shipping)
Insurance and documentation: $700
Total approximate cost: $4,600
The right logistics provider can significantly impact both costs and service quality:
Transparent Pricing: Clear breakdown of all fees without hidden charges
Volume Discounts: Better rates for regular or multiple vehicle shipments
Direct Carrier Relationships: Access to competitive rates and reliable space
Comprehensive Services: End-to-end solutions that simplify the process
West Coast Shipping offers competitive rates through direct carrier relationships and volume-based advantages, with transparent pricing that helps you understand exactly what you're paying for.
Understanding payment options and requirements is important for budgeting:
Accepted Payment Methods: Wire transfers, checks, and bank deposits
Payment Timing: Typically required before shipping commences
Currency Options: Payment in USD or EUR may affect final costs
Credit Cards: Not accepted by many shipping companies, including West Coast Shipping
Armed with a comprehensive understanding of car shipping costs to France, you're now better prepared to budget for your international vehicle transport:
Get a Personalized Quote: Use West Coast Shipping's car import calculator for instant rates
Consider Your Timeline: Factor in seasonal variations and booking lead times
Evaluate Shipping Methods: Choose between container, RoRo, or air freight based on your needs and budget
Plan for All Costs: Budget for both obvious and hidden expenses
For a more detailed understanding of the entire shipping process beyond costs, explore our ultimate guide to shipping cars to France, which provides comprehensive information on every aspect of the international vehicle shipping journey.
Ready to ship your car to France? Contact West Coast Shipping today for a personalized quote and expert guidance through every step of the international shipping process.