Frequently Asked Questions - Personal Vehicle Shipping

Our service for personal vehicles is strictly Port-to-Port RORO shipping. This means we handle the transportation of your vehicle from the departure port to the destination port. Clients are responsible for arranging any additional transportation and handling from the destination port.

RORO, or Roll-on/Roll-off shipping, is a method where vehicles are driven directly onto the ship and secured on the cargo deck. This is an efficient and secure way to transport motor vehicles without the need to load them into containers. Vehicles are simply “rolled on” at the origin port and “rolled off” at the destination.

LAC offers shipping services for a wide range of personal vehicles, accommodating various sizes and types. Our shipping capabilities include:

• Automobiles: Cars of any size and type.
• Trailers/Trucks: Including larger commercial vehicles.
• Industrial Vehicles: Such as forklifts and other construction vehicles.
• High & Heavy Machinery: Including heavy-duty construction equipment.
• Motorcycles/ATVs: Must be crated or palletized for shipping.
• Motorhomes/RVs: Recreational vehicles of all sizes.
• Vans/Buses: Including full-sized passenger and cargo vans.
• Boats/Jet Skis: Must be loaded on trailers for transport.
• Aircraft/Helicopters: Providing specialized handling for air vehicles.

This range allows us to serve a broad spectrum of personal and commercial shipping needs, ensuring safe and efficient transport across our service routes.

LAC specializes in RORO Port-to-Port shipping of personal vehicles from selected ports in the USA to specific destinations in Latin America. Below are our current available shipping routes:

Origin Ports in the USA:

• Newark, NY/NJ
• Baltimore, MD
• Jacksonville, FL
• Freeport, TX

Destination Ports in Latin America:

• Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
• Manzanillo, Panama
• Cartagena, Colombia
• Puerto Cortes, Honduras
• Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
• Santo Tomas de Castilla, Guatemala

Please note that our service is strictly port-to-port, meaning customers are responsible for arranging any necessary transport to the departure port in the USA and from the arrival port in Latin America.

Our sailings for personal vehicle shipments occur approximately once per month. We advise planning in advance to accommodate these schedules and ensure timely shipping of your vehicle.

RoRo shipping is generally faster than container shipping, without having to pay higher freight costs. Depending on origin and destination, the transit time from port-to-port for RoRo varies from 1-4 weeks while the transit time for container shipping ranges from 3-7 weeks.

No, we do not use containers for shipping personal vehicles. We utilize the RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping method. This efficient and secure approach involves driving vehicles directly onto the ship, where they are securely fastened on the cargo deck. This method avoids the complexities and limitations of container shipping, allowing vehicles to be simply “rolled on” at the origin port and “rolled off” at the destination. This ensures a smoother and more direct handling of your vehicle.

Each country has its own set of laws and regulations when it comes to shipping vehicle. Most countries will also allow cars and motorcycles to be shipped, though, some have strict rules and regulations relating to the vehicle age, left hand drive or right-hand drive or if new or used.

Before you arrange to ship your vehicle, it is your responsibility to make sure that it can be imported into the country of destination. You may want to verify this with a knowledgeable customs broker.

The specific port terminal for delivery will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Yes, motorcycles must be professionally secured inside a crate or on a skid. Each motorcycle shipment is subject to acceptance and approval by the terminal at the port to ensure safe and secure transport.

No, LAC does not provide crating services for motorcycles. Customers are responsible for ensuring their motorcycle is professionally crated or secured for transport prior to shipping.

Due to the numerous restrictions and the current limitations in service availability with our carriers, we do not ship electric vehicles. Our services are primarily focused on gas-powered vehicles, which we can handle more efficiently given the existing logistics and infrastructure. We strive to provide the most reliable and effective service within these parameters and appreciate your understanding.

Before shipping your vehicle internationally, you will need to ensure there is no outstanding liens/loans to be paid.

We would require the following documents:

• Scanned copy of vehicle ownership title.
• Scanned copy of vehicle bill of sale.
• Pictures of your vehicle.
• Written confirmation from your customs broker in the destination country stating that your vehicle can be imported.

Yes, we offer an additional insurance policy for international vehicle shipping. You must be aware that all transportation carriers have limitations in their liability, therefore we highly recommend insuring your cargo. Occasionally, circumstances beyond our control may cause damage to your vehicle while it is in transit. Insurance prices will depend on the value of the vehicle and shipping costs.

For personal vehicles, the insurance cost is 2.65% of the vehicle’s value plus freight costs and a 10% buffer. For example, if the vehicle’s value is $20,000 USD and the freight cost is $1,500 USD, then the total insurable amount would be $23,650 USD (vehicle value + freight + 10%).

To calculate the cost for insurance: $23,650 USD x 2.65% = $626.72 USD.

We do not offer pick-up or delivery services for personal vehicles. Customers need to arrange the transportation of their vehicle to the departure port and from the arrival port independently.

Unfortunately, you are not allowed to travel on board the cargo vessel.

No, vehicles must be completely emptied of all personal items before shipping. For safety and security reasons, only the vehicle itself can be shipped. Please ensure that your vehicle is cleared of any belongings prior to delivery at the departure port to avoid any delays or complications during the shipping process.

LAC does not provide customs clearance services for personal vehicles at the destination. We recommend contacting a local consulate to get in touch with a reputable customs broker in the destination country to assist with these services.

DTHC (Destination Terminal Handling Charge) and Agent fees will be confirmed at the time of booking. However, you can estimate approximately $250 USD for DTHC and $250 USD for Agent fees.

Depending on your status in the country you are shipping to, you may be able to apply for certain benefits or exemptions regarding duties and/or taxes. Our suggestion would be to review these details with your customs broker.

Our team of professionals will be providing you with updates throughout the journey of your shipment so that you stay well informed of the status of your cargo. You may also input the booking number on the steamship line’s website for further online tracking.

After receiving a quote for shipping your vehicle, it is important to consider several factors that could affect the final cost and process:

• Availability: Shipping is subject to space, equipment availability, and weather conditions which may affect schedules.
• Verification of Specifications: Your vehicle’s weight and dimensions will be verified as these factors are crucial for shipping.
• Customs and Duties: Import customs clearance, duties, and taxes are not included in the quote and are the responsibility of the vehicle owner.
• Port Charges: Be aware of potential port inspection and storage charges which can arise.
• Insurance: Cargo insurance is not included but is available upon written request.
• Additional Fees: Destination Terminal Handling Charges (DTHC) and agent fees are not included and are typically paid on a collect basis.
• Fuel Surcharge: Quotes are subject to changes in fuel and Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF) surcharges.
• Vehicle Condition: The vehicle must be delivered to the port terminal clean and functional.
• Escort Fees: Any fees for escorts at the port of loading are charged to the account of the vehicle owner.
• Waiting Time: Any fees for waiting time at the port are also the responsibility of the vehicle owner, as LAC has no control over port operations.
• Personal Items: Vehicles must be emptied of all personal items before shipping.

Understanding these factors can help ensure that you are fully prepared for the shipping process and any additional costs that may be incurred.