Thinking about sending your car to Puerto Rico, but unsure what it will cost? You’re not alone—shipping a vehicle to the island is a common need for people relocating, serving in the military, or spending extended time there. Knowing the price involves more than just looking at a shipping fee; several factors can affect the final cost.
This article breaks down everything you need to know—from cost ranges and key influences, to practical tips for saving money and avoiding surprises.
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How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Puerto Rico?
Shipping a car to Puerto Rico is a practical option for many people relocating, spending extended periods on the island, or bringing a specialty vehicle for personal use. The cost to ship a car to Puerto Rico generally ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on several key factors like your vehicle type, starting location, shipping method, and additional services requested.
Let’s break down what goes into these costs, the key steps involved, what you need to know before shipping, and how to maximize the value of your shipping experience.
Cost Factors: What Influences the Price?
Several aspects will impact how much you pay to ship your car to Puerto Rico. Understanding these will help you budget accurately and choose the best shipping option for your needs.
1. Distance and Starting Point
- Mainland Port Location: Costs are lower if you live close to major shipping ports like Jacksonville, FL or Newark, NJ.
- Inland Transport: If your car must be transported from an inland location to a departure port, add ground transport fees, which can range from $200 to $800 depending on distance.
2. Car Type and Size
- Standard Sedans: Cheaper to ship due to smaller size and weight.
- SUVs, Trucks, and Larger Vehicles: Cost more because of their weight and space requirements.
- Luxury or Specialty Cars: May need additional insurance or special handling, increasing the cost.
3. Shipping Method
- Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): The most common and cost-effective method. Your car is driven onto a ship and parked in an enclosed area.
- Container Shipping: Offers more protection and is ideal for high-value vehicles or for shipping personal belongings in the same container, but can be significantly more expensive.
4. Seasonality and Timing
- Peak Moving Seasons: Prices can be higher during summer or holidays when demand increases.
- Flexible Dates: If your schedule is flexible, you might be able to take advantage of discounts.
5. Additional Services
- Door-to-Port vs. Port-to-Port: Door-to-port (where your car is picked up at your home and taken to the departure port) is more expensive than port-to-port (where you drop off your car at the shipping port).
- Expedited Shipping: If you need your car to arrive quickly, expect to pay a premium.
Cost Overview Table
| Shipping Origin | Shipping Method | Average Cost (Sedan) | Average Cost (SUV/Truck) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville, FL | RoRo | $1,000 – $1,500 | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Newark, NJ | RoRo | $1,500 – $2,200 | $1,700 – $2,500 |
| Other US Locations | Door-to-port + RoRo | $1,200 – $2,500 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| All locations | Container Shipping | + $1,000 or more | + $1,200 or more |
Step-by-Step: How to Ship Your Car to Puerto Rico
- Get Quotes and Choose a Shipping Company
- Collect quotes from multiple trusted auto transport companies.
- Ask about licensing, insurance, and what’s included.
- Choose the service type (RoRo or container).
- Book Your Shipping Date
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Secure your spot; shipping companies can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
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Prepare Your Car
- Clean your car inside and out.
- Remove all personal items unless container shipping is chosen—RoRo ships do not allow anything inside the vehicle.
- Check for existing damage and take photos for documentation.
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Leave only a minimal amount of fuel (usually 1/8 tank).
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Drop Off Your Vehicle
- Deliver it to the assigned port or have it picked up from your address if you opted for pick-up.
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Present required documents (title, ID, proof of ownership, and valid registration).
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Shipping and Tracking
- The car will travel by sea (and possibly some ground transport).
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Most companies offer tracking updates.
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Customs and Import Taxes in Puerto Rico
- Be prepared to pay import duties and taxes upon arrival, which can vary based on your vehicle’s value, make, model, and year.
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Complete any necessary paperwork promptly to avoid extra storage fees.
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Pick Up and Registration
- Retrieve your car at the receiving port.
- Plan to register the vehicle in Puerto Rico and obtain new license plates.
Benefits of Shipping Your Car to Puerto Rico
- Convenience: No need to purchase a new car upon arrival.
- Cost-Efficiency: Shipping can be cheaper than selling your old car and buying another on the island.
- Personalization: You keep a vehicle you know and trust, potentially avoiding unexpected repairs common with used cars in new markets.
Challenges to Be Aware Of
- Puerto Rico Road Conditions: Roads on the island can be narrower and rougher than those in the mainland US, so low-clearance or very large vehicles may not be ideal.
- Import Taxes: Vehicle excise taxes in Puerto Rico can be substantial—do your homework to avoid surprises.
- Timeline: Weather or customs delays can sometimes stretch delivery times beyond the estimated window.
- Strict Regulations: Making sure you have all proper documentation, including clear title and bill of sale, is crucial.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first quote—compare at least three reputable companies.
- Ask About Insurance: Make sure you know what is covered during shipment. Consider supplemental insurance for added peace of mind.
- Double-Check Timing: Shipping may take 1–3 weeks depending on origin port and shipping method. Plan your transportation needs accordingly.
- Understand Tax Implications: Research the Puerto Rico Department of Hacienda’s online tool to estimate excise taxes before you ship.
- Choose the Right Port: Jacksonville, FL usually offers the lowest rates and fastest turnaround.
- Prepare Your Car Thoroughly: Mechanical issues, dead batteries, or excessive gas can get your shipment denied.
- Communicate Clearly: Stay in close contact with your shipping company for updates and required steps.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Use Major Ports: If possible, drive your vehicle to a main shipping port instead of paying for door-to-port service.
- Flexible Shipping Dates: Give a wider delivery window to qualify for lower rates.
- RoRo Shipping: Choose roll-on/roll-off over container unless you have special requirements.
- Bundle Services: Some companies offer discounts if you ship household goods along with your vehicle in a container.
- Prepare Documents in Advance: Avoid port storage fees by having all required paperwork and taxes paid in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to ship a car to Puerto Rico?
Shipping times typically range from 7 to 21 days, depending on your starting location, the shipping method, weather, and customs processing. Expect around one to two weeks if departing from major ports like Jacksonville, FL.
2. What documents do I need to ship my car to Puerto Rico?
You will need your car’s original title, valid registration, proof of ownership (bill of sale or loan payoff letter), a government-issued ID, and an insurance certificate. Additional documents might be required for leased or financed vehicles.
3. Are there import taxes or fees when bringing a car to Puerto Rico?
Yes, Puerto Rico charges an excise tax on imported vehicles. The rate depends on the vehicle’s make, model, year, value, engine displacement, and other factors. Be sure to use the Department of Hacienda’s online calculator to estimate your tax before shipping.
4. Can I ship personal belongings inside my car?
If you’re using the RoRo shipping method, personal items are not allowed inside the vehicle. However, container shipping may permit some personal belongings. Always confirm item restrictions with your shipping company to avoid problems or fees.
5. What happens if my car is damaged during shipping?
Auto shipping companies are required to carry insurance for your vehicle during transport. Before shipping, document your car’s condition. On arrival, inspect the vehicle thoroughly. If you find any damage, notify the shipping company immediately and file a claim as per their procedures.
Summary
Shipping your car to Puerto Rico involves careful planning and consideration, with total costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 for most standard vehicles. The final price depends on your vehicle, shipping method, departure port, and the level of service you choose. By comparing quotes, preparing all paperwork, understanding taxes, and following best practices, you can enjoy a smooth and affordable vehicle shipping experience.
Whether you’re moving permanently, spending an extended stay, or just want the convenience of your own car, knowing what to expect will help you make the best choices for your journey to the island.
