UK to USA Car Shipping Explained

Embarking on the journey of shipping your beloved vehicle from the United Kingdom to the United States can seem like a daunting task, fraught with complexities and potential pitfalls. However, with the right knowledge and a trusted partner, this process can be remarkably straightforward. Autoshippers UK, alongside our dedicated US partners, have been facilitating this transatlantic exchange of automobiles for over two decades, establishing ourselves as leaders in the field. We understand the intricacies involved, from the initial quote to the final delivery, and are committed to providing a seamless and secure experience for every vehicle entrusted to our care. Whether you're a classic car enthusiast looking to import a vintage gem, a family relocating with an SUV, or a business needing to transport commercial vehicles, our expertise spans the entire spectrum of automotive shipping.

Understanding Your Shipping Options: RoRo vs. Container

When it comes to shipping your car from the UK to the USA, two primary methods stand out: Roll on Roll off (RoRo) and container shipping. Each offers distinct advantages, and the best choice often depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of vehicle you are transporting.

Roll on Roll off (RoRo) Shipping

Considered one of the simplest and most cost-effective methods, RoRo shipping is favoured by many major car manufacturers for its efficiency. Your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised vessel by our experienced team and secured in a designated car deck. This method is ideal for a wide range of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, motorhomes, trucks, and buses. Autoshippers UK offers regular RoRo services departing from major UK ports such as Liverpool and Southampton, with direct routes to all primary RoRo ports across the USA, including Baltimore, New York, Norfolk, Brunswick, Miami, Charleston, Galveston, Jacksonville, Port Hueneme, and Tacoma. The convenience of driving your vehicle on and off the ship makes this a popular choice for many.

Container Shipping

For those seeking enhanced security and a more personalised shipping experience, containerisation presents an excellent alternative. Your vehicle is securely loaded and stowed inside its own dedicated 20ft or 40ft shipping container. This method provides an additional layer of protection against the elements and potential damage during transit. Our container services boast frequent departures from key UK ports like Bristol, Felixstowe, Grangemouth, Liverpool, and the Port of London. Transit times are impressively swift, with East Coast destinations reachable in as little as 8 days, Gulf ports in approximately 14 days, and West Coast ports within 22 days. We also utilise the advanced R-Rack system, a proven method for safely shipping cars overseas, ensuring weekly departures, significant cost savings for our clients, and faster transit times.

Estimated Costs for Shipping Your Car to the USA

The cost of shipping a car from the UK to the USA can vary, but as a general guideline, the average cost is around £1,205. This figure is influenced by factors such as your vehicle's destination within the US and its type. For instance, shipping a saloon car to New York typically costs approximately £1,212, with a transit time of about 11 days. For a more precise estimate tailored to your specific requirements, we encourage you to complete the quote form on our website. Below, you’ll find a table illustrating indicative costs for major US destinations. Please note that these rates are current at the time of writing and are for port-to-port shipping only. They exclude duties, taxes, vehicle collection costs in the UK, and any redelivery fees at the destination. It's always advisable to get a personalised quote to ensure accuracy.

Please remember this table is a guide. For an accurate quote, please complete our online form.

Navigating US Import Regulations: Key Considerations

Importing a vehicle into the United States involves adhering to specific regulations set forth by various government agencies. Understanding these requirements upfront will help prevent delays and additional costs.

Quarantine Inspection and Vehicle Cleanliness

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) mandates that all vehicles shipped into the USA must meet stringent cleanliness standards. It is crucial to ensure your vehicle is thoroughly cleaned, both inside and out, before it is shipped. Any failure to meet these requirements can result in delays and extra charges for cleaning to pass customs inspection. Pay close attention to the undercarriage, wheel wells, and engine bay, as these areas are often scrutinised for soil and plant matter.

The 25-Year Rule: A Boon for Classic Car Owners

The United States has rigorous safety and emissions standards for imported vehicles. However, a significant exception exists for vehicles that are 25 years old or older. Under the 25-Year Rule, vehicles of this age are exempt from many of the standard safety and emissions compliance requirements. This makes importing classic and vintage cars considerably easier and more cost-effective. If you are importing a vehicle that predates this 25-year threshold, you will find that many of the complex compliance procedures do not apply. We can provide detailed guidance on the specifics of the 25-Year Rule for your reference.

Essential Documentation for Shipping

Accurate and complete documentation is paramount for a smooth shipping process. Both Autoshippers UK and US Customs will require specific paperwork. It's important to have these readily available.

Documents Required by Autoshippers UK:

• A copy of your vehicle's V5 (Licence Document). We do not require the original.
• A copy of the photo page of your Passport.
• If you require us to arrange collection of your vehicle in the UK using an insured driver, a copy of a valid MOT certificate will be requested. Alternatively, if your vehicle lacks a valid MOT or you prefer, we can arrange collection via a recovery vehicle or an enclosed transport vehicle.

Documents Required by US Customs:

• Bill of Lading: This crucial document will be provided by us once your vehicle has been shipped from the UK.
• A copy of your passport and any relevant Visa information.
• A copy of the vehicle's licence document (V5).
• NHTSA Form HS-7: This form is mandatory for all vehicle imports.
• EPA Form 3520-1: If your vehicle is less than 25 years old and does not conform to EPA standards, this form is required. You can find it here.
• DOT Conformance Bond: This needs to be attached to the HS-7 form if applicable.
• Copy contract with the RI: If modifications are required to meet standards, a contract copy with the Registered Importer (RI) regarding the completion of modification work must be attached to your HS-7 form.

For a more comprehensive understanding of customs procedures, paperwork, and associated taxes, please consult our detailed USA car shipping guide. Should you have any queries or require assistance with any of the documentation, please do not hesitate to call us on 0800 389 0784 or contact us through our website.

How We Secure Your Vehicle for Transit

The safety of your vehicle during transit is our utmost priority. Our video demonstrates our meticulous process for shipping cars to the USA within a 20ft container. Upon arrival at our facility, your car is carefully driven into the container and precisely positioned. We then employ robust securing methods to ensure it remains stationary throughout the journey. This typically involves using sturdy chocks for all four wheels, whether made of metal or wood. Furthermore, strong, padded ratchet straps are used to firmly lash the wheels to the container's integrated securing eyelets. In instances where wheel straps are not feasible, we utilise the vehicle's front and rear towing eyelets for secure lashing. All our shipping containers meet strict safety regulations, guaranteeing their structural integrity and providing excellent protection against weather conditions.

Shipping Your Car from the USA back to the UK

The process of shipping your car from the USA to the UK is equally streamlined with Autoshippers. Simply complete our user-friendly auto shipping quote form. Our network of experienced car shipping agents, located in major US cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Houston, and Savannah, will provide you with a tailored quote for shipping your vehicle from any US state. These agents are integral parts of the Autoshippers network, are BBB rated, and are members of AMSA. Being fully bonded and insured, they ensure a truly trouble-free car shipping experience.

Our Expertise and Network: Why Choose Autoshippers?

Autoshippers UK and our extensive network of US partners bring over 20 years of dedicated experience to the table. We are true experts in shipping all types of vehicles, from cherished classic and vintage cars to robust motorhomes and SUVs. Collectively, we represent the largest and most experienced network of professional car shipping companies operating between the UK and the USA. Annually, we facilitate the shipment of over 25,000 vehicles to and from North America. You can have complete confidence that your vehicle will receive the utmost care and attention, ensuring its safe arrival at its destination.

Sailing Schedules: Planning Your Shipment

Below are indicative sailing schedules provided by the shipping lines. While we strive for accuracy, please note that these schedules are subject to change, and space availability can only be confirmed upon receipt of all necessary documentation and full payment of freight costs. Autoshippers is not responsible for any alterations to these schedules.

UK to USA RoRo Sailing Schedules (Indicative)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How much does it typically cost to ship a car from the UK to the USA?
A1: The average cost is around £1,205, but this varies based on the vehicle type and specific US destination. Always get a personalised quote.

Q2: What are the main shipping methods?
A2: The primary methods are Roll on Roll off (RoRo) and container shipping, each offering different benefits in terms of cost and security.

Q3: Does the 25-Year Rule affect my import duties?
A3: Yes, vehicles 25 years or older are exempt from many US safety and emissions standards, simplifying the import process.

Q4: What documents do I need to provide?
A4: You'll need a copy of your V5, passport photo page, and potentially an MOT if collection by driver is arranged. US Customs requires a Bill of Lading, passport/visa copy, V5 copy, and specific NHTSA/EPA forms if applicable.

Q5: How clean does my car need to be?
A5: Your vehicle must be thoroughly cleaned inside and out to meet USDA quarantine inspection standards to avoid delays and extra costs.

Q6: Can I ship household goods with my car?
A6: Yes, our partners at 1st Move International offer services for shipping household goods, and you can receive a 20% discount on house moves when shipping your car with Autoshippers.

Shipping your car across the Atlantic is a significant undertaking, but with Autoshippers UK and our trusted US partners, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in expert hands. We are dedicated to providing transparent pricing, reliable service, and peace of mind throughout the entire shipping process. Contact us today to get a free, no-obligation quote and take the first step towards your car's transatlantic adventure.