International Container Car Shipping from the UK

Container car shipping transports vehicles inside sealed steel shipping containers — 20ft, 40ft, or 40ft High Cube. Ship Cars provides both dedicated (FCL) and shared (LCL) container services from UK ports to over 50 countries worldwide. Container is required for electric vehicles, non-runners, classic cars, and high-value vehicles. Personal effects can travel alongside the vehicle in a dedicated container. FCL pricing starts from £965 to Hong Kong and £1,595 to Australia.

What Is Container Car Shipping and How Does It Work?

Ship Cars Ltd provides comprehensive and reliable international container shipping services, offering a secure and efficient method for transporting vehicles and general cargo worldwide. Whether you’re shipping a single car, multiple vehicles, or require dedicated container space for your goods, our expertise ensures your items arrive safely and professionally at their destination. We specialise in Full Container Loads (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services, catering to a wide range of shipping needs from the UK, Ireland, and Scotland to numerous global destinations.

What Container Sizes Are Available?

We offer a range of standard shipping containers to accommodate different cargo sizes and requirements.

Shipping Container Dimensions

Note: Internal dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Please confirm suitability for your specific cargo dimensions.

FCL vs LCL — Which Container Service Do You Need?

We offer two primary service types to suit your shipping volume and budget:

FCL Container Shipping (Full Container Loads)

With FCL, you have exclusive use of a shipping container, offering maximum security and flexibility.

• Container Options: Choose from 20ft, 40ft, or 40ft High Cube (HQ) containers. We also handle out-of-gauge shipments.

• Weekly Sailings: Benefit from our extensive network and weekly sailings from major UK ports (Southampton, Tilbury, Felixstowe) to thousands of destinations worldwide.

• Collection Services: Daily collections are available across the UK for 20ft or 40ft containers, provided there is sufficient space for safe parking and maneuvering.

• Loading Flexibility: We can place the container on the ground for easier loading or leave it on the back of the truck (approximately 5ft off the ground), which can help save costs.

• Vehicle Loading: Our rates for container car shipping typically include professional loading and securing of vehicles at one of our loading facilities.

LCL Container Shipping (Less Than Container Load)

If you don’t require a full container, our LCL consolidation service is a cost-effective solution.

• Consolidation Service: Your cargo is consolidated with other shipments in a shared container.

• Competitive Pricing: This service offers a highly competitive rate for smaller consignments.

• Expert Packing: We offer expert packing, labelling, palletising, and crating services for items ranging from a few boxes and furniture to commercial goods like electronics and tyres.

• Daily Collections: We provide daily collections from anywhere in Scotland, Wales, and the UK for our LCL groupage container services.

Which UK Ports Do Container Ships Depart From?

Ship Cars arranges container shipping from multiple UK port facilities:

Container Shipping to Key Destinations: Average Prices and Transit Times

Here is a selection of our competitive container shipping rates, based on standard conditions (e.g., 1 car in a 20ft container, 2 cars in a 40ft container). These rates are inclusive of loading and securing vehicles at our facilities.

Please Note:

• These rates are indicative and subject to change based on market fluctuations, fuel surcharges, and specific destination requirements.

• Prices are typically for shipping one standard car in a 20ft container and two standard cars in a 40ft container. Larger vehicles or additional cargo may incur extra charges.

• Transit times are approximate and can be affected by various logistical factors.

• For destinations not listed or for bespoke shipping requirements (e.g., multiple vehicles, out-of-gauge cargo), please contact us directly for a tailored quote.

• Price Breakdown For RORO, FCL and LCL Car Shipping

Export Documentation

Ship Cars manages the UK export customs declaration and arranges the Bill of Lading for every container shipment. The Bill of Lading is the key title document for your container — it is required for customs clearance at the destination port and should be kept securely. We brief every customer on what documentation is needed at the destination end and can recommend local port agents where required.

Real Container Shipping Examples from Ship Cars

Classic Car:

A private collector in Edinburgh shipped a 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback to Jebel Ali, Dubai, using a dedicated 20ft container from Tilbury. We arranged professional loading at our facility, secured the vehicle on wooden bearers to protect the undercarriage, and coordinated the UAE customs documentation. The vehicle arrived in 28 days and cleared Dubai customs without delay.

Electric Vehicle:

A customer relocating from Bristol to Perth, Australia shipped a Tesla Model 3 via dedicated container from Southampton to Fremantle. The EV hazard surcharge of £295 applied, and we provided specific battery preparation guidance per IMDG Code requirements. Transit time was 47 days; the vehicle cleared Australian biosecurity and was collected from Fremantle depot within 5 days of arrival.

Want To Buy Shipping Containers?

In addition to our shipping services, Ship Cars Ltd can also assist with the purchase of shipping containers. Whether you need a new or used container for shipping purposes or for storage, we can source reliable options.

• Container Types: We can source Standard 20ft, Standard 40ft, and 40ft High Cube containers.

• Condition: Options are available for new (one-trip) and used containers, which are inspected for seaworthiness and structural integrity.

• Delivery: Container delivery can be arranged to your UK address.

• Pricing: Container purchase prices vary significantly based on type, condition, and market demand.

  • New 20ft Container: Typically ranges from £2,800 – £3,500.

  • Used 20ft Container (Good Condition): Typically ranges from £1,800 – £2,500.

  • New 40ft Container: Typically ranges from £3,500 – £4,500.

  • Used 40ft Container (Good Condition): Typically ranges from £2,500 – £3,500.

These prices are approximate for purchasing a container outright and are subject to market fluctuations. Please contact us for current pricing and availability.

• International Vehicle Shipping Services:  Beyond Vehicle Transport

Special Considerations for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

Container shipping provides a safe and compliant method for transporting electric and hybrid vehicles.

• Allowed in Containers: Both electric and hybrid vehicles are permitted within shipping containers.

• Hazard Surcharge: Due to the presence of high-voltage batteries, electric vehicles typically incur a hazard surcharge, usually around £295 for a dedicated container shipment. This fee covers the necessary safety protocols and handling requirements.

• Preparation: Specific guidelines apply to preparing electric vehicle batteries for international transit, which our team will clearly outline for you.

Vehicle Condition and Loading

• Non-Operational Vehicles: Your vehicle does not need to be working or operational for container shipping. Our team has the equipment and expertise to safely load non-running vehicles into containers.

• Loading Goods: You are permitted to load personal belongings, spare parts, and other goods within the container alongside your vehicle. Ensure all items are securely packed and braced to prevent movement during transit. Avoid shipping hazardous or prohibited materials.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

While containers offer robust protection, we strongly recommend comprehensive marine insurance for added peace of mind.

• Total Loss Cover: Protects against total loss due to fire or water damage during transit. Costs 1% of the vehicle’s value + shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: Covers cosmetic damage (scratches, minor dents) as well as total loss. Costs 1.5% of the vehicle’s value + shipping cost. Available for vehicles no older than 10 years. A condition report is required; it’s complimentary if we collect your vehicle, or £35 if you deliver it to us.

• Marine Insurance For Vehicle Shipping: Comprehensive Coverage Option

Additional Resources

• Transit Time: Container shipping transit times vary by destination, ranging from 16 days to major ports like Jeddah to over 65 days for routes like the UK to New Zealand.

• Sailing Frequency: We offer weekly sailings to most major international destinations via container services.

• Prohibited Items: Hazardous materials, illegal items, weapons, ammunition, live animals, and perishables are generally not allowed.

• Mistakes to Avoid: For insights into common pitfalls, see our guide: Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping

• Vehicle Preparation: For detailed instructions, please visit: How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping and Preparing Your Car for Export.

Ship Cars Ltd. is your reliable partner for all international container shipping needs. Contact us today via email at info@shipcars.co.uk or call us to discuss your requirements and receive a competitive quote.

We also Provide efficient Services of Roll on Roll Off Shipping. Contact us today for further information or visit our sailing schedule and get an instant quote to schedule your car shipping with us.

Frequently Asked Questions — Container Car Shipping

What is the difference between FCL and LCL container shipping?

FCL (Full Container Load) gives you exclusive use of a 20ft, 40ft, or 40ft High Cube container — maximum security and the ability to include personal effects alongside your vehicle. LCL (Less than Container Load) consolidates your cargo with other shipments in a shared container, reducing cost for smaller consignments. Most vehicle shipments use FCL for security and flexibility.

Can I ship an electric vehicle by container?

Yes. Electric vehicles must be shipped by container — they cannot travel via RoRo due to lithium battery safety regulations. A hazard surcharge of £295 applies. Ship Cars provides specific battery preparation guidelines for your EV before shipment, in line with IMDG Code requirements.

Can I ship a non-running vehicle by container?

Yes. Non-running vehicles can be loaded into a container using a forklift or winch — no need for the vehicle to be Driveable. Non-runners cannot travel via RoRo, which requires vehicles to be driven on and off the vessel under their own power.

Can I put personal belongings in a container with my car?

Yes — in a dedicated FCL container. Personal effects, spare parts, and other goods can travel alongside your vehicle provided they are securely packed, properly braced, and fully declared. Hazardous and prohibited items are not permitted. Destination customs rules on personal effects vary — Ship Cars advises on route-specific restrictions at the time of booking.

How much does container car shipping cost from the UK?

20ft FCL shipping from London Gateway starts from £990 to Hong Kong (40 days), £3,544 to Jebel Ali UAE (28 days), £995 to Karachi (37 days), £1705 to Australia (85 days), and £1705 to New Zealand (77 days). 40ft containers add approximately £200–£300 per route. Prices are sea freight only — destination port fees, customs duties, and local charges are payable separately.

What container sizes are available?

Ship Cars offers three standard container types: the 20ft standard (33.18m³ internal volume — fits one standard car); the 40ft standard (67.67m³ — fits two standard cars); and the 40ft High Cube (76.28m³ — extra height for larger vehicles, motorhomes, and oversized cargo). Out-of-gauge shipments can also be accommodated — contact us for bespoke dimensions.

How long does container shipping take from the UK?

Approximate transit times from London Gateway: Jeddah 16 days; Jebel Ali (Dubai) 28 days; Hong Kong 40 days; Australia (Melbourne, Sydney, Fremantle, Brisbane) 47 days; New Zealand (Auckland, Lyttelton) 65 days. Allow additional time for port handling and customs clearance at the destination port after arrival.

Which UK ports do container ships depart from?

Ship Cars arranges container shipping from London Gateway, Tilbury, Southampton, Felixstowe, and Grangemouth. The departure port for your shipment depends on your destination and the most efficient vessel schedule at time of booking. Our published rates are based on London Gateway departures — contact us for pricing from other UK ports.

What items are prohibited in container shipping?

Prohibited items include hazardous materials (flammable liquids, gases, explosives), weapons and ammunition, illegal substances, live animals, and perishables. Destination-specific restrictions also apply — for example, New Zealand has strict MPI biosecurity rules prohibiting soil, seeds, and organic material inside vehicles or containers. Ship Cars advises on route-specific prohibited items at the time of booking.

Does my vehicle need to be insured during container shipping?

Marine insurance is not legally mandatory but is strongly recommended. Ship Cars offers Total Loss Cover at 1% of vehicle value plus shipping cost (covers fire and water damage), and Comprehensive Cover at 1.5% (covers cosmetic damage too, for vehicles under 10 years old). A pre-shipment condition report is required for Comprehensive Cover — free if Ship Cars collects your vehicle, £35 if self-delivered.