It might be difficult to ship a car to South America, especially if you have never dos it. Furthermore, an understanding of the vehicles allows you to maintain and plan accordingly. Meaning your vehicle will reach the destination without the abnormality.
We’ll take you step-by-step of shipping a car to South America, from knowing shipping options to customs process. In this eventual guide, we’ll give you all the information needed to ship a car to South America hassle-free. You will make it a stress-free process by following this guide.
Choosing the best shipping method is your first step.
Shipping a car to South America done in various ways. Which way to go about it will depend on your needs, budget and time. Common shipping methods are two.
1. Roll on/roll off
The RoRo shipping method is the most economic and popular for car transit. Using RoRo ship, your vehicle is driven onto the ship at the origin port and driven off at destination port If you’re ship a standar car, SUV, or motorcycle – this is the best method for most vehicles.
2. Shipping a container
If you want more protection for your vehicle, consider using container shipping for transportation. Your car gets transport in a container to reach the port of destination. This method is pricier but provides more security for your car as it is protect from pollution and damage during transit.
Usually container ship option is taken for luxury cars, classic cars or cars with special needs.

The paperwork you will require
There are several legal and regulatory requirements of shipping a car to South America. In order for your vehicle to pass through customs without incident you will need the following documents.
- Proof of ownership is contained in the bill of sale document, where the transaction is documented.
- To register in your name, you must show proof that the vehicle is registered and belongs to you.
- Your passport and ID may be required for customs to identify who you are.
- A declaration used to notify customs that a vehicle is being exported.
- Insurance: Proof of insurance coverage is often required during shipping.
The vehicle specifications and value for customs purposes assessment is a customs declaration.
Each country of South America may have slightly different requests for documentation, so always check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country to make sure you have everything in order.
Step Three: Get Your Vehicle Ready for Shipping.
When you have selected the shipping method and assembled the required documentation, the next step is to prepare your vehicle. Check this to make sure everything is okay.
1. Remove dirt and debris.
In most countries, including the South American ones, the vehicle cleaned. Foreign soil, plants or insects are dangerous to our ecosystem is the reason we don’t allow. Get your car wash well from both inside and outside.
2. Clear Out Personal Belongings.
Make sure to remove all electronic gadgets, others tools and personal items.
3. Is the vehicle condition okay?
Before shipping, ensure to snap detailed photos of your vehicle. This will help you document the condition of your car before it is load on the vessel. This document is going to be need for the claim of damage with the shipping company if there are damages during transport.
4. Make sure the vehicle is functioning correctly.
RoRo shipping does not require your car to be completely functional, but your car must be able to drive onto the ship. Make sure the battery has charged and tires holds pressure Not all shipping companies will be able to take-load your car so check beforehand. You do not want last minute surprises.
Choose a Reliable Shipping Company
It is essential to select the right auto transport company to ensure your car is ship safely and efficiently. Choosing a reliable company requires some tips for it.
Select a company that ships vehicles internationally (especially to South America), as they will have experience.
Check reviews from past customers who shipped cars to South America to determine the company’s reputation.
Ensure that the company insures your vehicle for its transfer, especially with luxurious vehicles.
Shipping companies must reveal prices for the service they will offer and stick to prices stated.
A good shipping company provides responsive customer service to assist you during the whole process.
At Carson Deliveries
We deliver dependable, cost-effective vehicle shipping services to South America. We can help you pick an appropriate shipping method and find the right shipping paperwork with ease.
Step five is customs clearance in South America
Once your vehicle arrives at the destination port, it will undergo customs clearance. Getting Import Approval Required confirms compliance with destination country’s import regulations. Make sure you have everything you need for customs clearance.
When bringing a car into South America, you will have to pay import duties and taxes on your vehicle. The rate is different from country to country, so be research the rate for your country.
Bring all the important papers, including the bill, title and insurance papers of the vehicle.
The car may have to undergo a physical inspection to show that it meets local standards and regulations.
Depending on the country and the complexity of the paperwork, customs clearance can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Step Six- Delivery of the vehicle
Your vehicle delivered once its cleared through customs. The shipping method and port will determine whether you will pick up the vehicle at the port or have it delivered to your house.
Numerous auto transport companies provide door-to-door delivery, where your vehicle is delivere right to your home or business address. If you are using RoRo ship then a pickup required where you’ll need to pick the vehicle up at the port unless door-to-door is available.
Conclusion
Sending a vehicle to South America is easy if you allow yourself time to get yourself prepare. When you choose the right shipping method, ensure all of the documentation is in order, ensure your vehicle is prepare for shipping and hire a credible shipping company, you will receive your car safely and on time.
We specialize in providing secure and efficient vehicle shipping services to South America at Carson Shipping. We take care of everything from the paperwork to the customs clearance and logistics to ensure your car arrives smoothly. Get in touch today for more information about shipping to South America. We look forward to hearing from you!

