{"id":1258,"date":"2014-01-08T09:47:32","date_gmt":"2014-01-08T09:47:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shipcars.co.uk\/news\/?p=1258"},"modified":"2025-04-24T11:16:58","modified_gmt":"2025-04-24T10:16:58","slug":"how-to-make-car-shipping-easier","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shipcars.co.uk\/news\/how-to-make-car-shipping-easier\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make Car Shipping Easier"},"content":{"rendered":"

So you\u2019re moving abroad and have decided to take your vehicle with you, you\u2019re unsure of the procedures or the legal implications involved when shipping a vehicle overseas<\/strong><\/a>?\u00a0 First Base Freight will be on hand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer any questions that you may have. We have many years of experience in shipping cars, trucks and motorhomes all over the world.\u00a0 We will assist you every step of the way \u2013 even helping you to avoid the many pitfalls that may come your way (this will depend on your chosen destination)<\/p>\n

One of the main issues that people face when shipping their vehicle is that they have never used a car shipper before and to be honest there are thousands in the UK to choose from \u2013 this on its own can be quite daunting.\u00a0 You need to find a shipper that will help you understand the procedures in layman terms.\u00a0 A lack of knowledge can cause un-necessary stress later on, so research is key to a smooth and trouble free shipment \u2013 hence why we have decided to be available 24 hours every day, \u00a0Check out our guide below that we have put together to help people avoid any unwanted stress and \u00a0rid people of their unwanted car shipping worries.<\/p>\n

Things You Need to Know<\/b><\/p>\n

We always advise our clients to check with the local customs at their chosen destination prior to shipment, to ensure that they can in fact import their vehicle without issue.\u00a0 Some destinations have minimum requirements that must be met, such as the maximum age of the vehicle, if it LHD or RHD (left or right hand drive) If you are a returning resident, you could also find out if you would receive relief from duty and taxes at the destination.<\/p>\n

Now remember, when moving a vehicle overseas you have to make sure that your vehicle makes it to the port in plenty of time.\u00a0 The vessels tend to close for receiving a couple of days prior to shipment so that the stevedores have plenty of time to load the vessels concerned.\u00a0 However a reliable car shipping company<\/strong><\/a> will be able to advise you of the exact date your vehicle needs to be at the port.\u00a0 If you are unable to deliver the vehicle yourself, First Base Freight offer a UK collection & delivery service by either \u2018Trade Plate Drivers\u2019 or on a single vehicle transporter.<\/p>\n

One of the most important things you need to remember when shipping your vehicle is to have the relevant paperwork copied and ready at all times. For instance, if you are having your vehicle collected by one of the shipping companies trade plate drivers you will be required to have a copy of the vehicle\u2019s MOT for the driver to have within the vehicle while they are transporting your vehicle to the port of departure.\u00a0 The shipping company that you have chosen should be able to give you the full list of paperwork that would be required for the specific destination that your vehicle is being shipped to.<\/p>\n

After you have the relevant paperwork sorted out – it is advised that you inspect your vehicle prior to shipping, making sure that it is in complete working order before it is driven to the port or collected by the shipping company. This will allow you to document<\/strong><\/a> the condition of your vehicle prior to sailing; allowing you to flag any mechanical issues that may require immediate attention.<\/p>\n

You may need to consider how you would prefer your car to be shipped; by roll on\/roll off or by containers? Both options offer very secure ways to ship a vehicle overseas.\u00a0 The only difference is transit time and cost.\u00a0 Only you know your budget but you must also bear in mind is that you will have fees to pay once your vehicle arrives at your chosen destination. Personal possessions left within the vehicle are removed as some ports will fine you for having them within the vehicle during its boarding.