There Is Not an Ocean of Difference Shipping Your Car By Sea.

Have you ever wondered at those freight ships with their checkered load of red and blue containers which, slowly passing bridges like the Golden Gate Bridge, may look almost toy-like form that windy observation point, and which you have never seen docked, but which in reality must be titanic? Don’t be alarmed at that ominous last word: shipping your car by sea is as easy and safe as domestic shipping.

If you are afraid that getting your car across a sea is not worth the trouble, make sure you compare free quotes offered by companies online. You may be surprised how much a shipping organization speeds things up and makes them easier and stress free. All car brands ship: anything from modern to vintage. Your classic and your sports, your veteran and your prestige car are guaranteed safe transport across any of the seven seas by a number of long-established large carrier companies and by a growing number of smaller but reliable modern businesses.

Shipping by sea is really not that different from land shipping. You will need maritime insurance, though, as your regular car insurance won’t cover overseas travel. Any of the three standard shipping methods will require you to prepare your vehicle for shipping just as you would over land.

If your car is not in a drivable condition to get it to its departure port, company trucks will be available to haul it to the docks. A full tank of gas is not a good idea as it adds weight. Have just enough gas to maneuver it to its port of shipment and to its final destination.

The three standard shipping methods mentioned above are Roll On Roll Off (RoRo), 20-foot container, and thirdly a 40-foot container.

The cheapest method is via RoRo ship, which is basically a ferry. An employee of the company will drive your car onto the ship and park it in a slot among the others. The car will then be secured in place. However, it is in just a slot, not its own garage, so it is somewhat vulnerable to damage by other cars possibly shifting a bit. RoRo remains the standard for shipping over short distances.

A safer way is the container method. A car is snugly fitted into a 20-foot container so it does not shift and it is all by itself. It is securely locked in its nest to protect it from access by anyone but the authorized agents until it either reaches customs or its destination, whichever comes first. The container also protects it against damage by other vehicles and the elements.

The RoRo and 20-foot container method will normally take the car only and not any personal belongings accompanying it. Depending on the size of your car, a 20-footer may be able to accommodate some extra personal goods. The 40-foot version will allow personal belongings to be loaded first. The vehicle is then driven or pushed into the container after the belongings are separated and secured. in their own area.

You must determine from the chosen shipper all appropriate fees that are to be paid upon arrival. Fees will vary depending upon the country of destination. Documentation is also going to be somewhat different from ground transportation. The shipping companies are knowledgeable in the various requirements of foreign countries, so rest assured that your property will be safe and secure.

For more information on Car Transport please visit JMN Auto Shipping.

Posted on 27 February '10, under Cars.