Documents Needed To Ship A Car To Saudi Arabia (2025 Checklist)

Ensuring you have every required document is the single most important step to a successful car import into Saudi Arabia. Missing paperwork can delay customs release, drive up storage costs, or even force re-export. Here’s what you need to clear customs, register locally, and avoid costly mistakes in 2025.

For a full step-by-step overview, costs, timelines, and shipping options, see our main Saudi 2025 import guide. For exact route and compliance quotes, use West Coast Shipping’s Saudi Arabia portal.

Essential Pre-Shipping Documents

Original Vehicle Title

This must be the lien-free (or otherwise released) U.S. title with the owner’s name matching export documents. If financed or previously under a lien, attach a formal lien release letter.

Bill of Sale or Commercial Invoice

Proof of purchase value. List buyer/seller information, VIN, make, model, year, and full sales price.

Power of Attorney

Needed for any shipping agent or broker who will act on your behalf with U.S. Customs or Saudi authorities.

Photo ID

• International shippers: Copy of the owner’s valid passport.

• U.S. shippers: EIN letter from the IRS.

Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED) / AES Filing

Filed electronically, this is mandatory U.S. export paperwork for every international vehicle shipment.

Saudi Import and Customs Documents

SASO Certificate of Conformity (CoC)

All incoming vehicles require a SASO CoC, confirming the car meets Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) standards. This is obtained through the SABER platform before shipping, and involves:

• VIN, make, model, photos, and specification submission

• SAR ~1,500 (≈$400) fee per car

• Review and physical inspection upon arrival for high-risk vehicles

Each shipment needs its own SASO certificate—even for batch or consolidated shipments.

Saudi Import Declaration & Customs Forms

• Register your shipment on the ZATCA website and upload all required vehicle and personal documents before shipping.

• Submit customs declaration and pay assessed duties (5%–15% depending on vehicle type/classification) plus 15% VAT.

Shipping Documentation

• Bill of Lading (B/L) from the ocean carrier/shipping agent

• Packing list (if shipping items in a container)

• Certificate of Origin if requested (for some regions/cases)

Post-Arrival: Saudi Registration and Road Readiness

Customs Clearance Certificate (Bayan)

Proof from customs that all duties, VAT, and prior paperwork have been accepted.

Technical Inspection Report (MVPI)

After arrival, obtain an inspection at a Saudi MVPI station confirming GCC compliance, emissions, safety, and VIN matching.

Registration Packet

Collate:

• Original title and bill of sale

• Customs Bayan

• SASO CoC

• Owner ID/Iqama/passport copy

• Inspection/MVPI certificate

• Local Saudi car insurance document (mandatory before registration)

• Copy of Saudi driver’s license (sometimes required)

• Copy of temporary or permanent plates paperwork

Riyadh Example: Registration may be subject to a plate subscription fee (SAR 200–600+), emission class, engine size, and local annual regulatory changes. Always consult with registration agents or the city’s licensing office before arrival for current requirements.

Importing for GCC Nationals, Expats, and Dealers

• GCC nationals may import up to two eligible vehicles/year.

• Expat importers (residents) must present a Saudi Iqama (residence permit) and driver’s license.

• Dealer/bulk imports require additional commercial registration and authorizations.

Quick-Reference 2025 Document Checklist

Don’t Miss a Step—Rely on Proven Partners

With document requirements and regulatory rules evolving each year, it’s critical to work with a team familiar with both U.S. and Saudi customs and registration processes. See our main Saudi guide or get instant route compliance advice through West Coast Shipping’s Saudi Arabia team.