If you need to move a car across state lines or bring one from abroad, the process can feel overwhelming. The good news? It’s mostly paperwork and a few decisions about how you want the vehicle to travel. Below you’ll find the most useful info to plan, budget, and avoid common hiccups.
In India you mainly have two ways to ship a car: container shipping and roll‑on/roll‑off (RoRo). Container shipping places your vehicle inside a sealed box, protecting it from dust, weather, and minor damage. It’s a bit pricier but worth it for high‑value cars or when you’re also moving personal items.
RoRo is cheaper because the car is driven onto a specialized ferry deck and secured with straps. The ship is open‑air, so you’ll see some exposure to elements, but most owners find it reliable for everyday rides. Choose based on your budget, the car’s condition, and how far it’s traveling.
1. Get quotes from at least three reputable shippers. Ask for a breakdown that includes loading, unloading, customs (if importing), and insurance.
2. Prepare the car: clean it, remove loose items, and take photos of any existing scratches. This helps settle any disputes later.
3. Gather documents: registration certificate, insurance copy, purchase invoice, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if the car isn’t yours.
4. Customs clearance (for imports): Pay import duty (around 100‑150% of the car’s value), GST, and any port fees. A customs broker can speed this up.
5. Loading day: Be at the port early. The crew will inspect the car, note its condition, and secure it on the deck or inside the container.
6. Transit: For domestic shipments, transit time ranges from 2‑7 days depending on distance. International routes can take 2‑6 weeks.
7. Delivery: Once the ship docks, you’ll pay any remaining fees and arrange a local transport to your final address.
Cost varies a lot. A RoRo shipment from Mumbai to Delhi typically runs between ₹30,000‑₹45,000, while container shipping for the same route can be ₹50,000‑₹80,000. Importing a used car from Japan often lands in the ₹2‑₹3 lakh range after duties and fees.
Tips to save money: book in bulk with other owners, avoid peak seasons, and negotiate the insurance premium. Make sure the shipper is licensed by the Directorate General of Shipping – a quick check on their website can spare you trouble.
By following these steps you’ll know exactly what to expect, keep costs under control, and get your car where it needs to be without surprise charges. Happy shipping!
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