If you are shipping your vehicle internationally, whether by land or sea, there are certain documents and information you will have to secure. It is recommended to check on Customs regulations in the country to which you are traveling to avoid problems once your vehicle arrives. Many international vehicle shipping companies will provide a list of Customs regulations, foreign consulates and embassies are also a good resource for this information.

In dealing with foreign ports, your shipping company should be able to help you with required paperwork. The receiving port may have documentation and loading fees, and in some situations you may have to pay an import tax. Some places may require you to make modifications to your vehicle, or may charge extra for insurance on vehicles imported from abroad.

Make note you will need the original title and a letter from the lien holder (if applicable), authorizing the exportation of vehicle. If you purchased a car in US you will need the original title and a Bill of Sale. Most countries require you to present bills of lading. It is best to obtain this information from your international vehicle shipping company so you will be properly prepared for entry into another country.

The most popular option in international vehicle shipping is RO/RO, which stands for Roll-On/Roll-Off service and basically means that your car will be "rolled on" the ship at the port of origin and "rolled off" at the port of destination.

Before agreeing to any one shipping service, always shop around. Get quotes from as many companies as possible. Compare prices among reputable vehicle shipping services. Don’t entrust your vehicle to services that have a generally bad record. Make sure you study the history of a company. Ask your friends who have gone through the same thing to advise you on good shipping services.

As with most things the price you pay for your international vehicle shipping is pretty much dependant on the vehicle shipping company you choose and before you make your final decision you should be very careful that you have been comparing like for like. Some shipping companies will include a number of value added services that the cheaper company may not offer. In order to be sure you are getting the best deals make sure you read all of the terms and conditions.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about international vehicle shipping:

Q. Will I need to deal with Customs when shipping my vehicle overseas?
A. Many shipping companies will have clearing agents and custom brokers that can handle and prepare your vehicle for shipping, as well as, agents at the destination port who will assist you. You can do this work yourself as well.

Q. Will there be International port and clearance charges?
A. Yes, each country differs, but there are doc fees and off loading fees that are charged by destination countries. Your vehicle shipping company will inform you of these charges. You may also be liable for import duties and taxes in some situations.

Q. Is my vehicle insured while in transit overseas?
A. Maritime Law declares that shipping companies are liable to no more than $500 per vehicle. It is strongly recommended you purchase an extra insurance policy. They offer full coverage, which covers all damages and shipping expenses.

Q. How much gas should I leave in my vehicle when shipping?
A. No more than 1/4 tank is requested, when shipping your vehicle overseas.

Q. How will my vehicle be shipped?
A. When shipping overseas, your shipping company has different options to offer you depending on your needs and budget. They can offer you container-shipping, roll on, roll off, or a few other options.

Q. Can I store personal items in my vehicle?
A. In most cases you can store items in the vehicle depending on the method of shipping. Your personal items may not be insured. If you are shipping your vehicle in its own container, your items can be insured, otherwise, usually not.

Q. What forms of payment is accepted by International shipping companies?
A. Shippers accept cashier and certified checks as well as cash and credit cards for the deposit. The balance is due upon delivery and only cash, cashiers or certified checks is accepted unless other arrangements have been made prior to transport.

Q. What if my vehicle is inoperable, can it still be shipped?
A. Yes. It can still be shipped but in most cases additional fees will apply because of the extra equipment and labor needed to ship your vehicle.