Moving a vehicle internationally is fundamentally different from a domestic cross-country transport. It involves navigating international maritime law, stringent national customs authorities, and complex vehicle registration (RTO) procedures. A single misstep in documentation can leave a high-value vehicle stranded at a port.
ShiftGo partners with licensed Customs House Agents (CHAs) and international freight forwarders to manage the secure, compliant relocation of cars, motorcycles, and specialty vehicles globally. Note: International vehicle relocation is subject to destination rules, shipping method, carrier availability, and import requirements.
Exporting a Vehicle from India (Outbound)
Taking your personal vehicle out of India requires explicit coordination between the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and Indian Customs.
1. Destination Compliance
Before initiating the export, you must verify that your vehicle is eligible for import in your destination country. Key factors include steering position (e.g., LHD vs. RHD), emission standards (Euro 4, Euro 6), and age restrictions.
2. RTO Deregistration
You must apply for the cancellation of your vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC) at the RTO where it is currently registered. This usually involves submitting a self-declaration, the original RC, a valid PUC, and an active insurance policy.
3. Customs Clearance
At the port of departure, a licensed CHA will file a shipping bill on your behalf. You may be required to produce a Chartered Engineer’s certificate verifying the vehicle's current market value, alongside your passport and travel documents.
Importing a Vehicle to India (Inbound)
India enforces some of the strictest vehicle import laws in the world to protect domestic manufacturing. It is a highly regulated and expensive process.
1. Strict Import Criteria
- Age Restriction: Used or second-hand cars must not be older than three years from the date of manufacture.
- Steering Position: Only right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are permitted to be imported and registered.
- Homologation: Vehicles must meet Indian safety and emission standards (CMVR). While some high-value vehicles (CIF value over USD 40,000) may be exempt from immediate homologation testing, most require compliance certification.
2. Customs Duty and Taxes
Import duties on cars entering India are notoriously high. Depending on the vehicle type, engine capacity, and value, combined customs duties can range from 100% to over 160% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value. Always consult the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) before shipping.
3. Transfer of Residence
If you are an Indian national returning to India for permanent settlement after residing abroad for at least two years, you may be eligible to import one personal vehicle under the Transfer of Residence rules, provided you have owned and used the vehicle abroad for at least a year.
Shipping Methods: RoRo vs. Container Freight
There are two primary methods for shipping a car across the ocean:
| Feature | RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) | Container Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | The vehicle is driven directly onto the deck of a specialized vessel, similar to a massive floating parking garage. | The vehicle is securely strapped inside a 20ft or 40ft enclosed steel shipping container. |
| Protection | Moderate. Vehicles are sheltered from the weather but share open decks with other cargo. | High. The vehicle is fully enclosed and protected from salt air, weather, and accidental transit damage. |
| Personal Items | Strictly prohibited. The car must be completely empty. | Permitted. You can ship household goods inside the same container. |
| Cost | Generally the most cost-effective option for port-to-port transport. | More expensive due to container leasing, terminal handling, and sealing fees. |
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need marine transit insurance?
- Yes, absolutely. Standard motor insurance does not cover international maritime transport. You must purchase specialized marine transit insurance to protect against total loss, container drop, or general average claims during the ocean voyage.
- Can I ship a motorcycle internationally?
- Yes. Motorcycles are typically shipped via LCL (Less than Container Load) freight. They are usually crated in custom-built wooden boxes before being loaded into a shared container for maximum safety.
- How long does international car shipping take?
- Transit times vary wildly by route. Shipping from India to Dubai may take 5 to 10 days port-to-port, while shipping from India to the USA or Europe can take 30 to 45 days, plus customs clearance time at both ends.
Request an International Vehicle Shipping Quote
Our logistics experts coordinate with leading marine carriers and customs agents to ensure your vehicle is transported safely. Contact us with your vehicle’s make, model, year, and the exact origin/destination ports.