Shipping a car to Saudi Arabia in 2025 can be cost-effective with smart planning, careful port choice, and process efficiencies. Here are the best real-world strategies for minimizing your total shipping bill, paperwork hassle, and port-to-port timeframe.
For the full regulatory and customs landscape, don’t miss our main 2025 cost and rules guide for Saudi car imports and start your all-in quote at West Coast Shipping’s Saudi Arabia portal.
Consolidated (shared) container shipping consistently provides the best value for U.S. shippers:
New York to Dammam: Around $2,500 per car (33–43 days, recent WCS rates)
California to Dammam: Around $2,750 per car (72–77 days)
All prices are recent examples for standard sedans—actual rates can change based on season, market, and vessel availability. Always request a specific quote for your route and timeframe.
Shipping in spring or summer typically avoids the congestion and rate hikes seen during autumn/winter peak seasons. Book in advance for best container availability and scheduling.
Dammam is Saudi Arabia’s highest-frequency port for U.S. container routes, resulting in both lower ocean rates and streamlined customs/inland trucking to most regions.
Find the most current Dammam rates and city delivery options at West Coast Shipping’s Saudi page.
GCC nationals can generally import up to two vehicles per year without a commercial license, though you must check Saudi customs for the latest quota rules. Taking advantage of this allowance (e.g., as a family or group) can enable container consolidation and potentially help split related logistics fees.
While SASO CoCs must be issued per vehicle, shipping several vehicles together allows you to consolidate agency fees and streamline logistics steps for SASO, VAT, and customs filing—saving time and some handling costs through agencies and customs brokers, even if there is no explicit SASO batch discount.
Destination charges are typically $800–$1,500 per car. These include port handling, customs clearance, and documentation. For final local registration and plates, costs vary by region; for example, in Riyadh you might encounter a “plate subscription” of SAR 200–600+ (subject to emission class, vehicle type, and regular city adjustments). Always check city-specific costs with your agent before port arrival.
Most vehicles must be under five years old (manufacture date, not just model year). Classic/antique vehicles 30+ years old may be permitted, but eligibility and duty rates are confirmed by customs upon inspection.
Container, RoRo, or air rates can jump 10–25% based on vessel supply, fuel costs, or booking window. Ensure your quote is documented and covers all legs, including local delivery, paperwork, and duties.
Pick Dammam for fast, affordable routes.
Ship in shoulder/off-peak seasons.
Consolidate in a container, especially for multiple or non-running cars.
Batch agency steps when possible—streamline SASO, VAT, and customs via the same handler.
Use your GCC annual import quota if eligible.
Always check local regulations and get a full quote for the port and final city.
Get step-by-step guidance, real-time rates, and all paperwork help at West Coast Shipping’s Saudi Arabia page, and explore the comprehensive regulatory and costs guide here.