When you start looking into how to ship a car from the usa, the first major decision is selecting the transport method. Each option offers different levels of protection and logistical handling. In our experience at Doma Shipping, the choice usually depends on the vehicle type and whether you are also sending personal belongings.
RoRo is one of the most common methods for shipping operational vehicles. The name says it all: your car is driven onto a specialized vessel that resembles a massive floating parking garage and driven off at the destination port. Inside the ship, vehicles are secured to the deck using high-strength straps and chocks to prevent movement during ocean transit. While efficient, RoRo generally does not allow for personal items to be left inside the vehicle, except for the spare tire and jack.
If you prefer maximum security or are shipping a luxury vehicle, Full Container Load Shipping is an excellent choice. Your vehicle is loaded into its own 20-foot or 40-foot steel container. This method provides a dedicated space, protecting the car from the elements and allowing you to utilize the remaining space for household goods. It is often the preferred method for those relocating permanently to Poland or Europe.
For those who want the protection of a container but don’t need the entire space, Less Than Container Load Shipping or shared container shipping is a practical alternative. In this scenario, your vehicle is loaded into a container alongside other vehicles or cargo heading to the same destination. This allows you to benefit from container security while sharing the space.
Air freight is the fastest method available, though it is rarely used for standard relocations. It is typically reserved for high-value classic cars, race cars, or urgent diplomatic shipments where time is the absolute priority.
| Feature | RoRo Shipping | Container Shipping (FCL/LCL) |
|---|---|---|
| Protection | Exposed to port air/handling | Fully enclosed in steel box |
| Personal Items | Not allowed | Allowed (in FCL/Shared) |
| Vehicle Condition | Must be operable | Can be non-running (winched) |
| Schedule | Fixed departures | Based on container consolidation |
| Best For | Standard daily drivers | Luxury, classic, or household moves |
Navigating the paperwork is often the most daunting part of learning how to ship a car from the usa. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires specific original documents to authorize the export of any motorized vehicle.
To ensure a smooth departure from ports near our hubs in Chicago, Palos Hills, or Roselle, you will need to gather the following:
For those moving under diplomatic status or government orders, additional forms may be required. We recommend checking the official archives at www.state.gov for specific checklists related to foreign service assignments.
Understanding the timeline of how to ship a car from the usa helps manage expectations. From the moment you contact us at one of our Illinois locations—whether in Mt. Prospect, Algonquin, or Des Plaines—the process typically follows a structured path.
The first step is verifying that your chosen carrier is a licensed Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC). This license ensures the company is bonded and authorized by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to handle ocean freight. You should also research the import regulations of your destination country. For example, Poland and other EU nations have specific rules regarding vehicle age, emissions standards, and lighting configurations (such as requiring amber turn signals).
Once you have selected your method and verified the regulations, the physical logistics begin:
Proper preparation is key to preventing delays at the port or damage during the 30-to-40-day journey across the Atlantic.
Follow this checklist to get your “wheels” ready for the voyage:
This depends entirely on the shipping method. In a shared or exclusive container, you are generally allowed to place personal items inside the vehicle or the surrounding container space. However, for RoRo shipments, the interior must be free of all personal belongings for security and safety reasons.
On average, the time “on the water” from the U.S. East Coast to European ports like Gdynia or Bremerhaven is about 30 to 40 days. However, you should factor in an additional 1 to 2 weeks for consolidated loading, customs clearance at the U.S. port, and the final discharge and customs processing at the destination.
While our teams in Chicago, Roselle, and beyond take every precaution to secure your vehicle, the ocean is unpredictable. Standard carrier liability is often limited by international maritime law. We strongly recommend purchasing marine insurance, which typically ranges from 1.5% to 2.5% of the vehicle’s value, to provide “All Risk” coverage for total peace of mind.
Shipping a car across the ocean doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By choosing the right method, preparing your documentation early, and ensuring your vehicle is ready for the journey, you can enjoy a smooth transition to your new home in Europe. At Doma Shipping, we take pride in our 30 years of experience helping families in the Chicago area—from Schaumburg to Glenview—move their most valuable assets safely.
Whether you are sending a classic car to a show or relocating your family SUV, we are here to handle the heavy lifting. If you’re ready to start your journey, explore our specialized services for Samochody z USA do Polski and let us get your wheels moving toward their new destination.
