How To Choose A Reliable International Car Shipper In 2025

Moving a vehicle across oceans is not the same as booking a domestic car hauler. Customs documentation, port handling, biosecurity rules, and long transit times make international car shipping a specialized craft. Choosing the wrong provider can add weeks of delay, thousands in hidden fees, or even damage to a prized classic.

1. Verify Core Credentials First

Look for Proper Licensing

• FMC OTI Number: Any U.S. ocean freight forwarder must hold an active Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) license. Ask for the Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) number and confirm it on the FMC site.

• Bond Coverage: Licensed forwarders must maintain a surety bond; verify the amount is sufficient for your cargo value.

Confirm Port Access and Facilities

A reliable shipper controls or partners with secure facilities near major ports. West Coast Shipping operates company-owned yards in California, Florida, and New Jersey—read how that shortens timelines in our article on the Auction to Your Door workflow.

2. Demand Transparent All-Inclusive Quotes

What a Real Quote Includes

1. Inland pickup (if requested)

2. Port and terminal charges

3. Ocean freight (RoRo or container)

4. Customs documentation fees

5. Destination port handling

6. Final delivery options

If any of these line items show "TBD," the price will likely balloon. Our instant shipping calculator produces a full door-to-door estimate in seconds—no fine-print surcharges later.

Watch for Hidden Extras

• "Security fee" or "administration fee" tacked on after loading

• Fuel or currency surcharges not capped in advance

• Unspecified "terminal handling" left open-ended

3. Evaluate Documentation Expertise

Key Paperwork Your Shipper Should Master

4. Inspect Physical Handling Standards

Loading Techniques Matter

• Soft-strap tie-downs protect wheels better than metal chains.

• Custom ramps and low-angle lifts prevent splitter damage on exotics.

• Photo documentation at loading and unloading proves condition.

5. Confirm Real-Time Communication Tools

A modern shipper should offer:

• Online tracking portal with GPS vessel data and milestone photos

• Automated status emails at pickup, loading, sailing, arrival, and customs release

• Direct line to a dedicated agent, not a generic call center

Our online portal stores every document, photo, and ETA in one dashboard.

6. Check References and Case Studies

Client Success Stories

Review examples of complex moves, such as:

• Multiple Pebble Beach classics shipped to Europe amid port congestion

• JDM imports navigated through pandemic-era container shortages

• Electric vehicles routed around Red Sea disruptions

7. Assess Crisis Readiness

Pandemics, canal blockages, and trade-war tariffs can upend logistics overnight.  Recent disruptions show how contingency plans save time and money. 

Questions to Ask Any Shipper

1. How did you reroute during the 2024 Red Sea crisis?

2. What's your plan if a strike hits the Port of Oakland?

3. Can you shift my container to the Gulf Coast if Newark congests?

If answers are vague, keep shopping.

8. Evaluate Value-Added Services

• On-base pickups for military members. 

• Crating for motorcycles and ATVs.

• Auction-house coordination for winning bids—critical during Monterey and Scottsdale sales

A reliable shipper offers more than ocean freight; they handle the entire logistics chain.

Quick Reference: Red Flags vs. Green Lights

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book?

Secure space 6-8 weeks before your desired sailing, especially during spring and fall auction seasons.

Should I choose RoRo or container?

Running daily drivers often ship RoRo; high-value or non-running cars go container. Our shipping calculator compares both modes instantly.

Can I load spare parts with my car?

Yes, if they're declared and secured. Shared containers outlined in the bulk guide show how to pack parts legally.

What about classic cars under the 25% Chicken Tax?

Trucks still face the duty. Read our Chicken Tax primer for strategies.

Choose Confidence—Choose West Coast Shipping

When your vehicle is worth real money—or simply priceless to you—selecting the cheapest quote isn't enough. You need licensing, transparency, flawless documentation, crisis-tested routing, and photo-verified handling. That's exactly what West Coast Shipping delivers every day.

Get Your Reliable Shipping Quote Now

Click the button below for an all-inclusive, door-to-door rate and let West Coast Shipping handle every mile, form, and port stop from seller's gate to your driveway.