If you have purchased a new or used vehicle that has been imported into your country by water, here are the typical steps to get it transported from the port to your home:
Step 1: Contact The Shipping Company – Getting Your New Vehicle Home
Once your vehicle arrives at the port, the shipping company will notify you. Contact them to let them know you are ready to take delivery. They will provide you with an estimated arrival date and let you know which port it has arrived at. The major ports that handle vehicle imports are usually located in or near major cities.
Step 2: Arrange Transport From The Port
Now you need to arrange to have your vehicle transported from the port to your home. There are a few different options for this:
Rent A Truck
You can rent a truck or van large enough to carry your vehicle from a rental company. Research rental rates and availability for the dates you need. Be sure the vehicle you are transporting will fit in the rental truck.
Hire A Transport Company
Professional vehicle transport companies can pick up your car or other vehicle from the port and deliver it for you. Get quotes from a few companies to compare rates. Factors like distance, vehicle size/weight affect pricing. Reputable companies have proper car carrier trucks and ensure safe delivery.
Trailer It Yourself
If you have a suitable vehicle like a truck or SUV, you can rent an enclosed car trailer and tow it yourself. Research rental trailer sizes vs your vehicle. Towing safely requires experience – consider a professional if unsure.
Step 3: Schedule Pickup Time With The Terminal – Getting Your New Vehicle Home
Contact the port terminal where your vehicle is located to schedule a specific date and time to pick it up. Terminals have limited space so appointments are required. Have your transport method arranged before scheduling pickup.
Step 4: Perform Required Customs Clearance
| Country | Customs Requirements |
| USA | Most personal imports qualify for a duty-free exemption if for personal use. May require basic import paperwork like an import/entry form. |
| Canada | No import duties on personal imports less than $20,000 in value for non-commercial use. May need import/entry form for record. |
| UK | Personal imports from outside EU have import VAT due unless qualifies for an exemption. Needs customs declaration form to clear VAT. |
Research customs requirements for your country to ensure proper paperwork is completed accurately. Missing data or mistakes can delay release of your vehicle from the port.
Step 5: Perform Pickup At The Scheduled Date And Time
Arrive at the port terminal as scheduled with your transport method. The terminal will guide you through verifying identifying information and paperwork for your vehicle. Once verified, they will guide you or your transport provider to retrieve your vehicle for loading.
Step 6: Transport The Vehicle Home And Unload – Getting Your New Vehicle Home
Your transport provider will safely deliver your vehicle directly to your home or other destination. Help guide them efficiently to the unloading location. Once home, your new vehicle import journey is complete! You can now enjoy your vehicle that was originally shipped abroad.
Proper planning is key to having a smooth experience getting your imported vehicle from the arriving port to your home. Following the typical transport process steps can make the final delivery proceed without complications.
