Is Shipping A Car To Puerto Rico Even Possible?

If you’re moving to Puerto Rico or just staying there for a long time, you might be wondering if it’s possible to take your car with you. The answer is yes, shipping a car to Puerto Rico is definitely possible. However, there are some important things to know before you begin. In this article, we’ll go over how you can ship your car, the costs involved, and what to expect when transporting your vehicle.

How Does Shipping a Car to Puerto Rico Work?

Shipping a car to Puerto Rico is quite similar to sending it to another state or country, but since Puerto Rico is an island, the car has to be transported by boat. The process starts with choosing an auto transport company that offers services to Puerto Rico. You will need to provide details about your car, such as the make, model, and condition, so the company can give you an accurate auto transport estimate.

Once you choose a company and agree on the cost, you will need to drop off your car at a port or arrange for the transport company to pick it up from your home. The car will then be loaded onto a cargo ship and transported to one of the ports in Puerto Rico, usually in San Juan. When the car arrives in Puerto Rico, you can pick it up from the port or have it delivered to your new address.

How Long Does It Take?

The shipping time depends on where your car is coming from. If you’re shipping a car from the East Coast of the United States, it typically takes about a week. If your car is being shipped from a further location, the transport time can be longer. Always ask the auto transport company for an estimated delivery time before booking the service.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Puerto Rico?

The cost of shipping a car to Puerto Rico can vary based on several factors. These include the size and weight of your car, where you are shipping from, and the time of year. On average, shipping a car from the mainland United States to Puerto Rico can cost between $1,000 and $2,500. However, this is just a general estimate, and prices can change. It's a good idea to contact different shipping companies to get a detailed auto transport estimate that fits your needs.

Factors That Affect the Cost

1. Car Size and Weight: Larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs generally cost more to ship because they take up more space on the ship and are heavier.
2. Distance: The further away your car is from the port where it will be shipped, the more expensive it might be. For example, shipping a car from Florida to Puerto Rico is often cheaper than shipping it from California.
3. Time of Year: The cost of shipping can go up during peak moving seasons, like the summer months. If you can, try to ship your car during the off-season to save money.
4. Extra Services: Some companies offer door-to-door service, where they pick up your car from your home and deliver it directly to your new address. While convenient, this can add to the overall cost.

What to Do Before Shipping

Before shipping a car to Puerto Rico, there are a few things you need to prepare. First, make sure your car is in good working condition. Some companies will not accept cars that are not drivable. If your car has any issues, inform the shipping company ahead of time.

Next, remove any personal items from the vehicle. Most companies will not allow you to ship a car that has belongings inside, for insurance and safety reasons. Also, clean your car and take pictures of its condition before shipping. This will help if there are any disputes about damage that may occur during transport.

Picking Up Your Car in Puerto Rico

Once your car arrives in Puerto Rico, you will need to pick it up from the port. You’ll have to present some documents, such as proof of ownership and identification. Be aware that you may also have to pay import taxes or fees based on the value of your vehicle. These fees vary, so make sure to ask your auto transport company about them beforehand.

Shipping a car to Puerto Rico is possible, but it requires some planning and research. Be sure to contact several transport companies to get an accurate auto transport estimate, and understand all the factors that can affect the cost. With the right preparation, your car can safely make the journey to Puerto Rico, and you can enjoy the convenience of having your own vehicle on the island.