How to Ship a Car from the UK to Europe: Everything You Need to Know

When one thinks of shipping a car in the UK to Europe, he/she may be tempted to think that this is a complex venture, but with the proper information and planning there may be nothing much to worry about. You might be moving, selling a car or simply interested in embarking on a long European trip with your Mercedes-Benz mansion-wagon, it is important to know how to ship your car to Europe so that you can arrive with your motor vehicle. This guide includes all the information that you will need to know including selecting the shipping method to fulfill legal and customs documents.Ship Cars Ltd  

Why Would You Need to Ship a Car from the UK to Europe?

People have a lot of reasons to use cars shipped to Europe out of the UK. Others are travelling to foreign countries either to work or retire, and the rest are classic car lovers who come to watch shows or races. Others may have bought a car in the UK and would wish to have it shipped to one of the European destinations.

Whichever the case, the car shipping is convenient, secure and the mind is at ease, particularly when compared to driving the car across the borders as it may not only take time, but also be expensive in terms of fuel, accommodation, and toll charges.

You may also like to read 10 Mistakes People Make While Shipping Car International.

What Are the Main Methods to Ship a Car to Europe?

Shipment of a car in the UK to Europe can be done in two major ways: Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and Container shipping. RoRo shipment consists of hauling the vehicle to a huge ferry or cargo vessel then hauling it out at the destination terminal. This is the most cost-effective and suitable approach especially when standard vehicles are used.

Container shipping, however, is a practice, which entails packing the car into a metal container. The procedure is more safe and appropriate in high-value, vintage, or luxury cars. It also enables one to carry personal belongings with the vehicle in the same container.

You may also get benefit from reading How To Choose Right Car Shipping Method.

Which Documents Are Required for Car Shipping from the UK?

You will have to prepare a set of documents to fulfill the legal and customs demands before your car is shipped. Usually, there are the following documents needed:

• Vehicle registration certificate (V5C).
• Duplicate of the vehicle owner identity/ passport.
• Evidence of car ownership (in case just purchased)
• Bill of sale or commercial invoice.
• Shipping and international cover documents (insurance).

One should also remember to ensure whether the destination country in Europe needs any further paperwork, like the import declaration or emission certificates.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from the UK to Europe?

Shipment of a car to Europe in the UK is dependent on a number of factors:

• Port and destination country.
• Shipment mode (RoRo or container)
• Dimensions and weight of the car.
• Season (high season may raise the expenses)
• Additional services (such as insurance, door to door delivery, or ancillary services such as customs handling)

Prices may vary on average between 500 to 2000 pounds. As an illustration, transporting an average car using RoRo to ports in either France or Netherlands can be approximately between £600-800, with transportation to southern or eastern Europe potentially being expensive. Container shipping is generally a higher cost particularly when you require an enclosed container or when you require a sole-use container.

You may like to read Important Things to Remeber When Shipping a Car.

Do You Need to Pay Taxes or Customs Duties?

The UK and the EU have altered their customs regulations after Brexit. Although UK is no longer a member of the EU custom union, every European nation has its import regulations.

You may be spared on some taxes in most countries in the EU in case you are relocating your place of residence to that country and the car is used and owned by you; considered that it should take at least six months of use in that country. Nevertheless, in case of a newly-bought or a commercial vehicle, there can be import duties and VAT, and it can be between 10 and 30 percent depending on the nation of origin.Enquire with the local customs of the country you are going to to know what is expected of you.

What Is the Best Way to Prepare a Car for Shipping?

Proper preparation can assist in the successful delivery of your vehicle to the destination without accidents and incidents. Begin by giving the car a complete check up, including checking on any damage or mechanical problem. Wipe down the car well because the dirt can conceal the scratches or dents on the vehicle during the check.

Eliminate all personal components (except containers service can permit them), and make sure that the fuel tank is not filled higher than 1/4 by law. Turn off alarms, fold down mirrors and ensure that the battery is charged. Captive photos of your car in all angles is an evidence in case you need to claim insurance at a later stage.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from the UK to Europe?

The shipping time is highly dependent on the destination and mode of shipping. The Western European route (France, Belgium, Netherlands) across the RoRo vessels can generally be made 2-5 days. When shipping to southern or eastern Europe it may take 7-14 or more days.

Container shipping can be a little bit slower because of the unloading and loading of containers particularly where there are shared containers. It is always advisable to have an approximate time range by your shipping company.

Can You Ship a Car from the UK to Europe After Brexit?

The answer to this question could be yes, it is still possible to ship a car between the UK and Europe even after Brexit. Nonetheless, customs processes are transformed. You now have to submit export declaration in the UK and import declarations in the EU country. There are also shipping companies that provide the custom brokerage service to take care of this paperwork on behalf of you.

It is strongly suggested to select a shipper knowledgeable in the transport after Brexit because he/she will take you through the new legal regulations and minimize the chances of delays.

Is It Better to Hire a Car Shipping Company or Handle It Yourself?

 

It is highly recommendable to get a well-known car shipping services company, unless you are well versed in international logistics. Professional corporations possess the expertise, insurance and facilities to carry out the whole exercise – between collecting your car in the United Kingdom to transporting it to your European location.

The companies to seek are those with transparent pricing, good client reviews, and full licensing and insuring. You are also at liberty to decide on the port-to-port or door-to-door service according to your liking and financial capacity.

What Are the Most Popular European Destinations for UK Car Shipping?

Some of the most common destinations where UK vehicles are shipped include:

• France (Calais, Le Havre, Marseille)
• Germany (Hamburg, Bremerhaven)
• Spain (Barcelona, Valencia)
• Netherlands (Rotterdam)
• Italy (Genoa, Livorno)

These countries offer well-established port infrastructure and are easy to access via both RoRo and container shipping.

Final Thoughts: Is Car Shipping from the UK to Europe Worth It?

Shipping a car from the UK to Europe can be a very worthwhile option, especially if you’re moving long-term or dealing with a high-value vehicle. While the process involves paperwork, costs, and planning, the convenience and safety of shipping far outweigh the stress of overland transport or re-purchasing a vehicle abroad.With the right preparation and a trusted shipping partner, your car can reach its European destination efficiently and securely.Looking to ship a car from the UK to Europe? Do your research, compare quotes, and make sure your shipping company is experienced in handling post-Brexit regulations for a smooth journey across borders ship car .