Car Shipping to Limassol
- Fast Information
- Cost starts from: £650
- Roll on/Roll off: Yes ✓
- Container Shipping: Yes ✓
- Frequency of sailing: weekly
Shipping Your Car from the UK to Limassol, Cyprus: The Complete Guide
Shipping your vehicle from the UK to the sun-drenched shores of Cyprus is a significant step, whether you’re relocating for a new life, returning home, or moving a cherished classic car. At Ship Cars Ltd, we specialise in making this process seamless, reliable, and straightforward. This definitive guide covers everything you need to know about shipping your car to the Port of Limassol, from costs and paperwork to import regulations and preparation.
Why Ship Your Vehicle to Cyprus?
Cyprus is a popular destination for UK expatriates and returning residents, and having your own vehicle offers unparalleled freedom to explore the island. Common reasons for shipping include:
- Relocation: Moving to Cyprus for retirement, work, or to be closer to family, bringing the comfort and convenience of your familiar vehicle.
- Returning Residents: Cyprus nationals or long-term residents moving back to the island and bringing their UK-purchased vehicle with them.
- Second Homes: Individuals with a holiday home in Cyprus who require a vehicle for their extended stays.
- Vehicle Value: Shipping a car you already own can be more cost-effective than purchasing a new or used vehicle on the island, especially for specific models.
- Classic & Luxury Cars: Bringing over a cherished classic car or a luxury vehicle that holds significant personal or financial value.
Your Shipping Options: RORO vs. Container Shipping
We offer three flexible methods to ship your vehicle from the UK to Limassol, catering to different needs and budgets.
- Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) Shipping
This is the most efficient and popular method for standard, operational vehicles.
- How it Works: Your car is driven onto a specialised vessel under its own power and secured safely within the ship’s garage for the voyage.
- Best For: Standard, everyday vehicles that are in full working order.
- Key Restriction: Personal belongings are not allowed to be shipped inside the vehicle.
- Shared Container Shipping
A cost-effective container solution that offers more protection than RORO.
- How it Works: Your vehicle is shipped in a container shared with one or two other vehicles, separated by wooden battens for safety.
- Best For: Customers seeking enhanced protection for their vehicle at a lower cost than a dedicated container. Non-running vehicles are accepted.
- Personal Effects: A limited number of personal belongings may be allowed, subject to strict rules and customs declarations.
- Dedicated Container Shipping
The ultimate solution for security and protection.
- How it Works: Your vehicle has an entire 20ft or 40ft container to itself. It is loaded, secured, and sealed for a private, door-to-door journey.
- Best For: High-value classic cars, non-running projects, or customers who need to ship a substantial amount of personal effects with their car.
- Learn More: For a detailed comparison of container options, visit our International Container Shipping page.
Key Service Details & Pricing
Here is a clear breakdown of our services from the UK to Limassol.
Transit Time & Frequency
- Average Transit Time: 14 days from the UK port to the Port of Limassol.
- Sailing Frequency: Vessels depart three times per month, ensuring regular and flexible departure options.
Pricing Guide
Our guide prices provide a clear starting point. Please contact us for a precise, no-obligation quote.
| Vehicle Type | Example | RORO Price | Shared Container Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small / Standard Car | VW Golf, Ford Focus | £765 | £895 |
| Large SUV / 4×4 | Range Rover, BMW X5 | £995 | £995 |
Dedicated container pricing is bespoke; please enquire for a specific quote.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown
The final price for shipping your car is composed of several key elements.
- Ocean Freight: The core cost of the sea transport via your chosen method (RORO or container).
- UK Port Fees: Handling and administrative charges at the departure port is already included in the quotation.
- Cyprus Port Fees: Customs handling, harbour dues, and port services at the Port of Limassol needs to be paid at destination.
- Documentation: Our fee for professionally managing all required UK export.
- Insurance: An optional but highly recommended cost for risk coverage (detailed below).
- Vehicle Collection: An additional service fee if you choose for us to collect your vehicle from your UK address.
Paperwork Required for Shipping
Accurate documentation is essential for a smooth export from the UK and import into Cyprus.
Paperwork from the UK
- Vehicle Registration Document (V5C): The original logbook is mandatory for processing the vehicle’s permanent export from the UK.
- Proof of Identity & Ownership: A copy of your passport and a recent utility bill or bank statement as proof of address.
For a full checklist, read our guide on Preparing Your Car for Export.
Paperwork for Cyprus Customs
- Original Bill of Lading: The title document for the shipment, which we will provide.
- Application for Vehicle Registration: Forms from the Cyprus Road Transport Department (RTD).
Cyprus Import Rules, Duty & Tax
Understanding Cyprus’s import regulations is crucial. The process differs for temporary and permanent imports.
- Temporary Import: Non-residents can temporarily import a vehicle for up to 6 months without paying taxes. You must provide a customs guarantee (cash deposit or bank guarantee) which is refunded when the vehicle is exported.
- Permanent Import: For residents or those moving permanently, the following taxes apply:
- VAT (ΦΠΑ): Standard rate of 19% on the customs value of the vehicle.
- Registration Fee: A one-time fee based on the vehicle’s age, CO2 emissions, and engine capacity (cc). This can be a significant cost.
- Special Defence Contribution: May apply in certain cases.
- Duty: Typically 10% for passenger vehicles, unless exempt under a personal import scheme for returning residents.
Official Links:
Vehicle Preparation & Insurance
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
Correct preparation prevents damage and ensures compliance.
- Fuel Level: The fuel tank must be no more than 1/4 full.
- Personal Belongings:
- RORO: Strictly not allowed. The vehicle must be empty.
- Container Shipping: A limited amount is permitted but must be declared. Prohibited items remain banned.
- Vehicle Condition: For RORO, the vehicle must be operational. For container shipping, non-running vehicles are acceptable.
For a detailed, step-by-step guide, please read: How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping.
Insurance & Risk Coverage
Protect your investment with our comprehensive marine insurance options.
| Coverage Type | Cost | What’s Covered | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Loss Cover | 1% of (Vehicle Value + Shipping Cost) | Total loss only, due to fire or water damage. | – |
| Comprehensive Cover | 1.5% of (Vehicle Value + Shipping Cost) | Covers total loss, fire, water damage, and cosmetic damage. | Vehicle must be under 10 years old. A condition report is mandatory. |
About the Condition Report: This pre-shipping inspection documents the vehicle’s condition. It is free of charge if we collect your vehicle. If you deliver the vehicle to us, a fee of £35 applies.
Vehicle Collection & What’s Allowed
How We Collect Your Vehicle
We offer two convenient options:
- You Deliver: Drive your vehicle to our designated UK port.
- We Collect: We collect from your home or workplace using a transporter or trade plate driver.
- Requirements for Collection: The vehicle must have a valid MOT and be fully operational to be driven.
Vehicle & Item Restrictions
Adherence to these rules is mandatory to avoid delays and penalties.
- Allowed Vehicles:
- Petrol and Diesel vehicles.
- Hybrid vehicles are allowed.
- Not Allowed / Restrictions:
- Electric Vehicles: Not allowed via RORO shipping. Electric vehicles can be shipped via container but are subject to a hazard surcharge of £295.
- Personal Belongings (RORO): As stated, strictly not allowed.
- Prohibited Items: This includes flammable liquids, explosives, weapons, ammunition, narcotics, perishable foods, and any hazardous materials.
Essential Resources for a Successful Shipment
To ensure a smooth process and avoid common errors, we highly recommend these resources:
- Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping – Learn from others to avoid costly delays.
- Avoiding Damage with International Car Shipping – Proactive steps to safeguard your vehicle.
Ready to Ship Your Car to Cyprus?
Shipping your vehicle from the UK to Limassol is a major undertaking, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With Ship Cars Ltd, you gain a trusted partner to manage the entire process, from collection and documentation to ocean freight and arrival coordination.
Our transparent pricing, regular sailing schedule, and expert knowledge of Cyprus import regulations make us the ideal choice. Contact us today for a precise, no-obligation quote and let us ensure your vehicle arrives in Cyprus safely and efficiently.
