Shipping a car internationally is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning and attention to detail. Many people make avoidable mistakes that can lead to delays, extra costs, or even damage to their vehicles. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 mistakes people make when shipping cars internationally and provide actionable advice to help you avoid them. By the end, you’ll feel confident in navigating the process—and know why West Coast Shipping is the trusted choice for international car transport.
Selecting the wrong shipping method can lead to unnecessary expenses or risks. For example:
What to Do Instead: Assess your vehicle's value, condition, and urgency to decide on the best method. Learn more about these options on our International Car Shipping page.
Missing or incorrect paperwork is one of the most common reasons for shipment delays or customs issues. Key documents include:
What to Do Instead: Partner with a shipping company like West Coast Shipping that offers assistance with documentation to ensure everything is accurate and complete.
Each country has unique customs requirements, including import taxes, duties, and compliance standards. Overlooking these can result in your car being held at customs or denied entry altogether.
What to Do Instead: Research the specific regulations of your destination country or consult professionals who specialize in international shipping. Our blog on international car shipping processes and best practices provides valuable insights into navigating customs requirements.
Many people focus solely on shipping fees and forget about additional expenses like:
This oversight can lead to unpleasant surprises when it’s time to collect your vehicle.
What to Do Instead: Use a cost calculator (available on our International Car Shipping page) to get an accurate estimate of all expenses involved in your shipment.
Improper preparation can lead to damage during transit or delays at customs. Common mistakes include:
What to Do Instead: Clean your vehicle thoroughly, remove all personal belongings, and document its condition with photos before shipping.
Standard shipping insurance may not cover all potential damages during transit. Many people assume their vehicle is fully protected when it’s not.
What to Do Instead: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for extra peace of mind, especially if you’re transporting a valuable or classic car.
Not all shipping companies have the expertise needed for international transport. Some may lack knowledge of customs regulations or fail to provide adequate protection for your vehicle during transit.
What to Do Instead: Work with an experienced provider like West Coast Shipping, which specializes in international car transport and offers secure container consolidation options.
Shipping times depend on factors like origin, destination, and method used. Misjudging these timelines can disrupt your plans, especially if you need your vehicle by a specific date.
What to Do Instead: Plan ahead by consulting estimated transit times provided by your shipping company. For example, shipments through West Coast Shipping range from 14–65 days depending on the route.
Some countries have strict regulations regarding emissions standards or modifications that must be addressed before importation. Failing to meet these requirements can result in fines or rejection at customs.
What to Do Instead: Research compliance requirements for your destination country or consult with experts who handle international regulations daily—like those at West Coast Shipping.
Attempting to manage international car shipping without professional help often leads to costly errors and unnecessary stress.
What to Do Instead: Partner with a trusted provider like West Coast Shipping that manages everything in-house—from documentation and customs clearance to secure loading and delivery.
West Coast Shipping has nearly two decades of experience in international car transport and offers:
Learn more about our services by visiting our homepage or exploring our International Car Shipping Process Guide for detailed insights into avoiding common pitfalls.
By avoiding these mistakes and working with professionals like West Coast Shipping, you can ensure a seamless international car shipping experience tailored specifically to your needs!