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If you’ve only ever purchased cars locally before, you might not be familiar with how to buy a car and have it shipped. Many people are interested in considering makes and models that are located out of state or even in a different country. While it may be simpler and quicker to visit a local dealership, there are advantages to casting a wider net. This is especially true if you have a specific model in mind, you’re interested in foreign imports, or you’re searching for a rare gem.
Knowing how to buy a car and have it shipped involves a number of important choices. In addition to how you pay for your vehicle, you’ll need to decide on how your vehicle is shipped. Choosing between options including closed or open transport, door to door delivery or terminal pickup, and more will have a significant impact on the entire process.
Our comprehensive guide below provides you with everything you need to know to successfully purchase and ship a vehicle from within the U.S. and internationally.
Millions of cars are transported all over the world every year. If you’re shopping around for a new car, you might be wondering if it is possible to buy a car in a different state or even to consider overseas dealerships. The short answer is yes. U.S. citizens and organizations can buy cars and have them shipped. There are regulations in place to govern out of state and international shipping but if you fall head over heels for a car that isn’t local to you, you don’t have to give up on the dream of having that vehicle on your driveway or building a new fleet for your business.
If you are toying with the idea of having a car shipped, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the relevant rules and legislation and to make sure that you know exactly what is involved in the process. Shipping a car isn’t as straightforward as buying from a local dealership and driving your car home. There are additional expenses to consider, and you’ll also need to make sure that your new vehicle meets strict criteria set out by authorities, including the Department of Motor Vehicles, Environmental Protection Agency, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Buying and shipping a car can save time and money if you are looking at vehicles in other states or you’re interested in purchasing a foreign car. In some cases, shipping is the only option, but it might also be possible to consider flying and driving. If you are in a situation where you have options, weigh the pros and cons and compare costs before you make a decision.
Efficiency is critical in the automotive industry, and there are streamlined, swift transportation systems and services in place to move vehicles from one place to another. It’s rare for new cars to end up in the town in which they were made, and every year, millions of cars are shipped from A to B. If you’ve never thought about buying and shipping a car before, you might not have given much thought to how cars arrive at showrooms and dealerships.
There are various options when it comes to auto transport and car shipping. Shipping via boat is often considered the best solution because vessels can carry huge numbers of vehicles at the same time. Some specially designed boats can even transport up to 8,000 cars at one time. Traveling by ship also provides a cheaper and higher volume alternative when compared to shipping by air. While planes can certainly reach their final destination quicker, the cost for this speed is much higher and fewer cars are able to be transported.
Shipping via rail is another option that many people utilize. This is a reliable form of transportation as traffic and weather for example typically don’t have an impact on shipments. Of course, transportation via truck is always part of the journey, even if just for the final portion.
In addition to the mode of transportation that’s used to transport vehicles, the way in which they’re transported also varies.
The first important distinction in how vehicles are transported is whether it’s in an open or closed environment. Closed transport involves placing a strong, high-quality covering around the vehicles or placing them into a sealed container. Open transport, on the other hand, provides no protection.
When transporting new or highly valuable retro/classic vehicles, closed transport is nearly always used. Car shippers sending used or salvage vehicles will often opt for open transport since the possibility of damage to the vehicles will have less of a financial impact. As expected, closed transport carries a higher price tag than open transport.
Another consideration is the origin and destination of the vehicle shipment. Terminal delivery involves vehicles being picked up and/or delivered to a specific location before completing another step of the journey. Door to door delivery occurs when a car is delivered directly from the pickup location to the delivery location. The cost for a door to door delivery is certainly higher given the fact that the buyer and seller have to do less work than what’s needed for terminal deliveries.
Buying a car is an exciting proposition, but if you’re exploring the possibility of purchasing a vehicle out of state, it’s critical to make sure you know what the process entails. It is possible to buy a car out of state, but it can be more complex and potentially more time-consuming than buying a car closer to home.
There are advantages of being open to different options when looking for a new or used car. These include:
Generally speaking, it is best to avoid buying a car out of state unless you are certain that it is the right vehicle for you. Before you make any offers or sign any contracts, do your research and make sure you know exactly what you’re buying. You don’t want to waste time and money arranging a trip to a different state to find that the car isn’t what you thought it was. Be wary when it comes to online advertising and images. If you can, it’s always beneficial to inspect vehicles in person before you buy them and to arrange a test drive. If you have a friend or a family member who has expertise in mechanics, asking them to check out the car for you before you make a decision is a great idea. You could also arrange for a local mechanic to take a look.
There are differences between buying a used car in the state in which you live and purchasing a car out of state. One of the most crucial considerations is ensuring you are familiar with the requirements of your home state. Different states have slightly different regulations, and you can find out more from your local DMV.
When you buy a used car, it’s also important to think about emissions. For the most part, emission standards for vehicles in the U.S. are administered federally and managed by the EPA. However, there are some variations between states when it comes to acceptable emissions and inspection frequency, so check before you buy. For example, California is heavily invested in a mission to reduce emissions, and rules have been enforced by the California Air Resources Board. If you’re planning to buy a car and ship it to California, you’ll need to make sure your vehicle is compliant. New emissions regulations apply to new and used cars, but it is worth noting that a new car is categorized as any vehicle that has fewer than 7,500 miles on the clock. Electric cars are not required to undergo emissions tests.
Another consideration when buying a car out of state is safety checks. In many cases, if you’re buying from a dealership, this will have already been sorted for you. If a safety check hasn’t been performed, you can arrange for authorized local mechanics to inspect your vehicle so that it meets the relevant standards. If a seller is unwilling to commit to doing this for you, this should raise a bright red flag. You will need to ensure that this process is completed to register and title your car when you arrive home. Reputable dealerships will provide you with a temporary title, which enables you to transport your vehicle. If you’re buying from a private seller, the process is more arduous, and you’ll have to liaise with the DMV in your home state, as well as the state in which you’re buying, to proceed.
The final thing to think about when buying a used car out of state is paying taxes. You’ll need to pay the tax due to register your car in your home state. Your car should also be insured before you get behind the wheel.
When shopping for a new car, you don’t have to buy from a dealership located in your home state. If you want to explore other options and look at offers in a different state, you can buy a new car out of state.
One of the most common reasons people buy out of state is to save money. In some cases, it may be possible to save hundreds, even thousands of dollars by purchasing a car from a dealer in a different state. Buying out of state might also appeal if you have your heart set on a rare or limited edition model, or you have a specific make and model in mind and you can’t find any good deals nearby.
When buying out of state, it pays to be organized and to conduct research in advance. It’s very difficult to really get a feel for a car without sitting in it and taking it for a spin.. It’s important that you feel comfortable, and that the descriptions and images provided are accurate. For these reasons, it’s important to ensure that you have an open and transparent conversation with the dealership you’re communicating with. Many dealerships often operate in groups where you can communicate with a local dealership about a vehicle at another one of their dealership located out of state.
If you choose to buy a car in a different state, you’ll need to think about how you’re going to get the vehicle home. If you plan to drive, liaise with the dealer to sort out a temporary registration sticker and make sure your new car is covered by insurance.
Before you make any final decisions when buying a new car out of state, it’s a good idea to work through this check-list:
Many buyers are now keen to explore financing options when buying a new car. Different lenders might specify various regulations, but you should still be able to use a loan or buy a car on finance if you’re looking to secure a vehicle out of state.
Classic cars hold a special place in many peoples’ hearts, and collecting vintage models is a popular pastime. Whether you have a number of classic cars, or you’re looking to make your first foray into the retro automobile market, it’s important to be aware of the steps involved in buying a classic model out of state.
Classic cars are different from new and used cars, and there are significant differences between different states when it comes to regulations. Some states are much more liberal than others in terms of registration requirements and emissions testing. When you’re looking for a classic car, it’s wise to consider these factors:
You can check the requirements of your home state by contacting your DMV. It’s essential to be aware of potential restrictions before you set your sights on a vintage gem in a different state.
If you do find a classic car that you love, and you’re keen to buy, do some research before making an offer. You can use the Internet to get an accurate idea of the car’s value. Make sure you buy from a reputable dealer and check the information provided to confirm that it’s valid. Finally, make sure you have a suitable insurance policy in place. Expect to pay more for insurance on classic vehicles. Damage to a classic vehicle can lead to an extremely high cost for repairs which adds increased risk for insurance companies. Learn more about classic car shipping.
We live in a world where people buy and ship products overseas on a daily basis. International trade is integral to the growth of global economies, and it also provides advantages for consumers. As a buyer looking for a new car, you can access a much wider range of makes and models if you consider purchasing a vehicle from a different country. The process isn’t as simple as visiting a local dealership, but it can be beneficial if you have your mind set on a specific car, or you’re keen to invest in a foreign make.
If you like the idea of buying overseas, here are some factors to consider:
Once you’ve confirmed the purchasing details, be sure that everything is in order to have your vehicle(s) shipped in the way that they need to be. Many overseas vehicle purchases hit snags during the shipping process through unforeseen delays, damage, and more. It’s important to work with a highly reputable transportation and logistics company with a proven track record of safely shipping vehicles.
Individuals, businesses and organizations rely on cars more than ever before, and every day, vehicles are transported between states, countries and continents. International car shipping enables buyers to choose from a wide range of makes and models and manufacturers to open their product range up to global markets.
When seeking international auto transport, it’s crucial to be aware of legislation and regulations that apply to imports. Having the right documentation (more on this later) and making sure that your vehicle is compliant can save a lot of hassle and prevent delays. If you buy from a dealership, or you hire a shipping agency to take care of the logistics for you, you can benefit from a comprehensive service that covers all elements of the delivery process. Some 3PL companies can manage the entire process which makes everything smoother, dealing with one point of contact instead of multiple parties.
International shipping offers many benefits, including:
Manufacturers can now ship to almost anywhere in the world.
When shipping a car from England to the U.S., there are various boxes to check. First, you’ll need to check that the vehicle you want to buy in England is eligible. There are restrictions in place according to whether or not you are a U.S. citizen, when the vehicle was manufactured and whether it meets FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards). Your car will have to pass border checks and comply with emissions requirements set out by the Environmental Protection Agency. Cars that are imported to the US should also have a clean under-carriage.
The time it takes to ship a car from England will depend on the shipping partner chosen and the availability of the vehicle. The cost will also vary according to the value of the car, its condition, the company you choose to transport your car and the shipping method used.
If you’re thinking about buying a car in England, choose a reputable dealer and make sure the vehicle can be registered in your home state.
Germany is famed for its car industry, and makes like Mercedes and Volkswagen are very popular. If you’re looking to buy in Germany and ship to the US, you’ll need to ensure the vehicle you are interested in meets U.S. import standards.
Any vehicle that is imported to the U.S. is subject to checks, and it’s wise to ensure your new car fits the bill before you proceed.
Requirements relate to emissions, FMVSS and registration eligibility. The age of the vehicle and your citizenship status will also be taken into account.
There are various options when shipping a car from Germany, including:
The method you choose will impact the cost, and it might also affect delivery times.
Are you shipping a car to Germany? Learn more about auto transport to Germany.
If you’re looking at purchasing and shipping a car from Japan, you’re not alone. The Japanese car industry thrives on selling their manufactured vehicles to consumers across the world, including the U.S. Subaru, Nissan, and Toyota are three of the largest Japanese auto manufacturers.
While you should be able to find vehicles that are already compliant with the emission and safety standards of the U.S., you should still confirm this with the seller. If the vehicle that you’re importing from Japan isn’t compliant with U.S. requirements, it will lead to costly modifications.
The time that it takes for a car to be shipped from Japan to the U.S. will generally be around 1 month. This is with the car being shipped on an ocean vessel. If a quicker delivery is needed, air transport is recommended, but will be costly.
If you’ve made an agreement to sell your car and are shipping it to someone, you need to properly prepare it to be shipped.
Here are some simple steps to take before your car starts its journey:
By preparing your vehicle before shipping, you can reduce the risk of damage, as well as ensuring you have proof if your car is scratched or scuffed in transit. It is well worth spending a few minutes carrying out a thorough inspection before your car is taken away.
Many people move to different states, and some buyers are keen to look for deals or specific models out of state. If you’re thinking of shipping a car in the US, it’s important to be aware of domestic shipping regulations.
Domestic requirements are designed to promote safety and protect the environment. If you’re shipping a car in the U.S., you should be aware of the steps you’ll need to take to start driving your car legally.
When you buy and ship a car, it’s wise to inspect the vehicle closely, so that you can check for signs of damage on arrival. If there are no new scuffs or marks, and you’re happy with the condition of the vehicle, you’ll be asked to sign a Bill of Lading. The next step is to register your car in your home state. There are variations in time-frames in different states, so make sure you know how long you have to register the vehicle.
The process for shipping a car in the U.S. involves:
Standard oversize load limits apply for car shipments just as they would for any other type of commodity.
Cars are shipped all over the world today, and regulations are in place to ensure driver safety and protect consumers.
International shipping regulations vary according to the countries involved in importing and exporting. Different countries have different requirements, and this means that you might have to provide documentation and meet certain eligibility criteria before buying and shipping a car overseas or across borders.
There are variations in international car shipping regulations, but typically, global shipping requires:
When dealing with international shipping cars to the U.S., there are a few forms that will be required.
It’s important to work with a licensed customs broker to ensure that these forms are completed and filed appropriately.
Whether you’re buying a new car, or you’re shipping a used car to a different state or country, it’s natural to want to enjoy peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe hands. Auto transport partners provide logistics and shipping services. You can find details of services online, ask for recommendations or read reviews. It’s also worth looking for endorsements from reputable brands and manufacturers.
When looking for an auto transport partner, it’s wise to take these steps:
Finding a high-quality and affordable partner can be time-consuming and challenging. Many shippers and companies choose to work with a full-service 3PL that already has established partnerships with qualified transporters. This cuts down on research and comparison time and provides you with quick access to the best service providers available.
Now that you have the knowledge needed to buy and ship a car, you just need the right company to get it done. At R+L Global Logistics, we’re ready and willing to get the job done for you. We’ve been safely transporting vehicles for clients and customers since 2008. Whether you’re shipping a car within the U.S. or from another country, we’ll get the job done safely and hassle-free.
Our full-service transportation and logistics approach ensures that you can get everything done with us. From transporting your car to storage if needed to customs clearance, we do it all. You won’t have to worry about complicating the process by working with multiple companies and people.
When you’re ready, give us a call at (866) 322-1381 and we’ll provide you with a quick, transparent auto transport quote.
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