Electric Vehicle Shipping from the UK

Ship your Tesla, Polestar, Taycan or any electric or hybrid car overseas — with the right battery paperwork, charge level and insurance sorted for you.

Quick answer

What is electric vehicle (ev) shipping?

Electric vehicles can travel by RORO or container when the carrier's battery-condition, charge-level and declaration rules are met. Requirements vary by line and route and are confirmed before booking.

The Ship Cars is the vehicle shipping agent division of Ascope Shipping Services LTD, registered in England.

Electric cars are shipped as dangerous goods because of their lithium-ion batteries. Under the IMDG Code, a battery-powered vehicle is classed as UN3171 (Class 9). That does not stop you shipping it, but it does mean the shipping line needs correct declarations, the battery must be in good condition and the state of charge usually has to be within the line's limit — commonly 30% or less for container shipments and often up to 50% for RoRo.

The Ship Cars handles EV bookings every week from Southampton and Tilbury. We check the line's current EV rules for your route, complete the dangerous goods declaration, advise on charge level and make sure your car is accepted first time — no surprises at the terminal.

Electric car prepared for compliant international shipping — Electric vehicles require route-specific battery and carrier checks.

Why Choose Our Electric Vehicle (EV) Shipping

Correct DG Paperwork

We prepare the UN3171 Class 9 dangerous goods declaration required by every shipping line for battery-powered vehicles.

Charge Level Guidance

We confirm the exact state-of-charge limit for your line and route, typically 30% for containers and up to 50% on some RoRo services.

RoRo or Container

RoRo is usually cheapest. Container is ideal for high-value EVs such as a Taycan, Model S Plaid or classic EV conversions.

Brand-Specific Advice

Tesla transport mode, Polestar and Rivian tow modes, 12V battery care and keycard handover are all covered before drop-off.

EV-Ready Insurance

Marine insurance that covers electric vehicles, including battery damage, arranged on request.

Destination Checks

We check import rules for EVs at destination, including incentives, charging-port standards and any age or type restrictions.

How It Works

Get a Quote

Tell us the make, model, battery size and destination. We confirm which lines accept EVs on your route.

Battery Check

We ask you to confirm the battery is undamaged, with no warning lights, and advise the correct charge level.

Paperwork

We complete the export declaration and the Class 9 dangerous goods declaration.

Deliver or Collect

Drop the car at the port or we collect it. Charge level is checked at check-in.

Sailing & Arrival

Your EV sails by RoRo or container and we keep you updated until it is ready at the destination port.

Indicative Pricing

Prices are estimates for a standard car. Get an exact quote for your vehicle.

EV by RoRo (Europe/Middle East)

Same published country rates as petrol cars on most routes

From £535

EV in shared container

Charge level usually 30% or less

By quote

EV in sole 20ft container

Best for high-value EVs

By quote

Frequently Asked Questions

Can electric cars be shipped overseas from the UK?

Yes. EVs are shipped every week by RoRo and container. They are declared as UN3171 Class 9 dangerous goods, which we handle for you.

What charge level should my EV have?

It depends on the line. Many container lines require 30% or less; some RoRo services accept up to 50%. We confirm the exact limit for your sailing. The car must still have enough charge to be driven on and off.

Can I ship a damaged or recalled EV?

Vehicles with damaged, swollen or defective batteries are usually refused or need special approval. Tell us about any damage or battery warning before booking.

Is shipping an EV more expensive?

On most routes the freight price is the same as a petrol car of the same size. Some lines add a small dangerous goods or handling surcharge, which we include in your quote.

Can I ship a Tesla from the UK?

Yes. We regularly ship Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X. Enable transport mode if needed, leave the keycards with the car and ensure the 12V battery is healthy.

RoRo or container for an EV?

RoRo is cheaper and fine for most EVs. Choose container for high-value, modified or rare EVs, or if you want the car sealed for the whole voyage.

Official government resources

Always confirm current customs, duty and vehicle registration rules with the official authorities before you ship.

Related Services

RORO Shipping

The most popular and cost-effective way to ship running vehicles internationally. Drive on, sail away.

Container Shipping

Maximum protection for high-value, classic, and non-running vehicles. Dedicated or shared container options.

Shared Container Car Shipping

The cheapest way to ship a car in a sealed steel container. Share a 40ft high-cube with vehicles heading to the same destination and save 25–35% versus a dedicated container — weekly departures from UK ports to 50+ countries.

Guides

Ready to Ship?

Get a free, no-obligation quote for electric vehicle (ev) shipping from the UK. Browse our destinations or use the cost calculator for an estimate.