The Complete Car Shipping Checklist for UK Exporters

Before booking any shipment, it is worth confirming that your destination country actually permits import of your specific vehicle. Some countries restrict imports by vehicle age, drive configuration (left-hand versus right-hand drive), or emissions standard, and finding this out after paying for shipping is a costly mistake to avoid.

Check whether you will need a specific customs relief, such as transfer of residence relief within the EU, and gather early confirmation of any documentation this requires. It is also worth checking whether your destination has minimum notice periods for booking RORO sailings, as popular routes can fill up several weeks in advance during peak season.

Most shipments require broadly the same core documents: the original V5C registration certificate, your passport or photo ID, a bill of sale or purchase invoice showing the vehicle's value, and proof of your residency status at the destination if relevant to any customs relief being claimed. If the vehicle is on finance, you will also need a letter of authority from the finance company confirming the vehicle can be exported.

For vehicles still under UK ownership being shipped for someone else, or for company-owned vehicles, additional authorisation letters may be required. Keep both original documents and clear photocopies or scans, since some ports and clearing agents will want originals while others accept copies submitted in advance.

Proper vehicle preparation reduces the risk of damage and speeds up the loading process at the port. Key steps include reducing the fuel tank to around a quarter full, disconnecting or securing the battery where required by the carrier, removing all loose items and personal belongings unless shipping by container with permitted personal effects, and deactivating any aftermarket alarm system.

Take detailed, dated photographs of the vehicle from all angles, including the interior, odometer reading, and any existing scratches, dents, or wear, before it leaves your possession. This creates a clear record of condition that protects you in the unlikely event of a damage claim during transit. Also ensure you provide two sets of keys — one travelling with the vehicle and one retained for the shipping paperwork as instructed by your shipping company.

Decide between RORO and container shipping based on your vehicle's condition, value, and destination availability, referring to The Ship Cars' guides on each method if you are unsure which suits your situation. Request a written quote that clearly separates freight, insurance, and any anticipated destination charges, so you have a full picture of the total cost before committing.

Once you accept a quote, confirm the collection or drop-off arrangements, the expected sailing date, and the insurance terms in writing. Make a note of your booking reference and the shipping line's tracking details so you can monitor your vehicle's progress once it departs.

Marine transit insurance should be arranged for every international vehicle shipment, covering loss or damage during loading, the voyage, and unloading. Confirm whether the policy is based on agreed value or market value, particularly important for classic or modified vehicles where a standard market valuation may not reflect the car's true worth.

Check what excess applies and whether the policy covers additional risks such as delay-related storage costs or destination handling incidents. Keep a copy of your policy documents and the insurer's claims contact details accessible throughout the shipment in case you need to report an issue quickly.

Before your vehicle arrives, confirm with your shipping company or a local clearing agent exactly what documents will be needed to clear customs at the destination, and make sure these are sent ahead of the vessel's arrival wherever possible to avoid storage or demurrage charges. Arrange destination insurance and registration appointments in advance if you know your vehicle's approximate arrival window.

Finally, plan how you will collect the vehicle once it clears customs — whether that is self-collection from the port, or arranging onward delivery through your shipping company — and confirm any final payments or charges due at this stage before the vehicle is released to you.