How To Ship an Exotic Car Safely: Full Guide

If you’re a proud owner of an exotic car, you know how important it is to maintain its pristine condition. Whether you need to ship an exotic car across the country for a car show, a race, or simply to store it away, shipping it requires careful planning and execution.

At CitizenShipper, we understand the importance of wanting to safely ship a car, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you avoid any potential mishaps and ensure a successful shipping experience.

1. Select the Right Shipping Option for Your Exotic Car

When it comes to shipping an exotic car, you have several options to choose from. The most popular are open and enclosed trailers. Open trailers are cost-effective and ideal for standard cars. On the other hand, enclosed trailers offer better protection for exotic cars and high-value vehicles. They’re designed to shield your vehicle from the elements and any debris that may cause damage during transit.

2. Plan Ahead for Shipping Your Exotic Car

Shipping an exotic car requires planning ahead of time. You want to make sure you have enough time to research shipping options, compare prices, and make an informed decision.

Start by identifying the date you want your car to be delivered, and work backward to determine the ideal date for pick up. This will give you enough time to prepare your car for shipping and avoid potential delays down the line.

3. Prepare Your Exotic Car for Shipping

Before you hand over your exotic car to the shipping company, you need to make sure it’s properly prepared for the journey ahead. Start by cleaning your car thoroughly and documenting any pre-existing damages by taking photos or videos.

Remove any personal items from the car, including loose items in the trunk, floorboards, or glove compartment. This will lighten the load for the shipping company and prevent any personal items from getting damaged or lost during transit.

4. Choose the Right Shipping Company

Choosing the right shipping company is crucial for a safe and successful shipping experience. You want to partner with a company with a proven track record of transporting exotic cars and all the necessary licenses and certifications.

At CitizenShipper, our vetted and verified drivers are experienced in shipping exotic cars, and our platform allows you to compare prices and read reviews from other customers to make an informed decision.

5. Insure Your Exotic Car

No matter how careful you are in shipping your exotic car, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s crucial to insure your car to protect your investment and have peace of mind during transit.

Most reputable shipping companies offer insurance coverage for your exotic car during transit. Reviewing the insurance policy and asking questions before committing to a shipping company is essential to ensure you’re adequately covered.

Factors To Consider When Shipping an Exotic Car Internationally

Shipping an exotic car internationally presents its own set of unique challenges. In addition to selecting the right shipping company and preparing your vehicle, you’ll need to navigate customs regulations, taxes, and paperwork.

1. Customs Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the import and export regulations of both the origin and destination countries. Each country has its own set of rules governing vehicle importation, and it’s essential to ensure compliance to avoid delays or fines.
2. Taxes and Duties: When shipping an exotic car internationally, you may be subject to taxes and duties based on the value of your vehicle. Research your destination country’s tax rates and duties and factor these costs into your shipping budget.
3. Documentation: Proper documentation is critical for international car shipping. Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, such as your vehicle title, registration, and proof of ownership. You may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or other documentation, depending on the destination country.
4. Shipping Methods: Consider the shipping methods available for international car shipping, such as roll-on/roll-off (RORO) or container shipping. While container shipping is typically more expensive, it offers better protection for your exotic car during transit.

Tips for Shipping an Exotic Car During Winter Months

Winter months pose unique challenges when it comes to shipping an exotic car, but with careful planning and preparation, you can ensure a safe and successful shipping experience.

1. Choose Enclosed Shipping: Enclosed shipping provides better protection for your exotic car from harsh winter elements, such as snow, ice, and road salt.
2. Check the Tires: Ensure your exotic car’s tires are inflated to the proper levels and in good condition to withstand temperature fluctuations during transportation.
3. Inspect Fluids: Check all fluid levels, including antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid, to ensure your car is ready for the winter weather.
4. Protect the Battery: Cold temperatures can affect your car’s battery performance. Ensure the battery is fully charged and in good condition before shipping.
5. Communicate with Your Shipping Company: Inform your shipping company of any specific concerns or requirements related to shipping your exotic car during winter. They may have additional recommendations or precautions to ensure a safe shipping experience.

FAQs

What Are the Shipping Options for Exotic Cars?

The main shipping options for exotic cars are open trailers and enclosed trailers, with enclosed trailers offering better protection for high-value vehicles.

How Can I Prepare My Exotic Car for Shipping?

To prepare your exotic car for shipping, clean it thoroughly, document pre-existing damages, and remove personal items and loose objects from the vehicle.

What Should I Look For in a Shipping Company for Exotic Cars?

Look for a shipping company with a proven track record, experience with exotic cars, necessary licenses, certifications, and insurance coverage.

Is Insurance Necessary When Shipping an Exotic Car?

Yes, insurance is crucial when shipping an exotic car to protect your investment and ensure peace of mind during transit.

Bottom Line

Transporting an exotic car requires careful planning and execution to ensure a safe and successful shipping experience. By selecting the right shipping option, planning ahead, properly preparing your car, choosing the right shipping company, and ensuring your exotic car, you can rest assured that your investment is in good hands.

At CitizenShipper, we’re committed to providing you with a hassle-free and safe shipping experience. Our platform allows you to compare prices, read reviews, and choose from a pool of vetted and verified drivers to transport your precious exotic car. Contact us today to get started!