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.
To get your car into port it must be in a drivable condition. Otherwise, company trucks will be available to take it to the docks. A full tank of gas is usually unnecessary and undesirable, since it adds weight. Have enough gas to get the car into port and onto and off the ship.
There are three methods used to ship vehicles: Roll On Roll Off (RoRo), a 20-foot container, or a 40-foot container.
The least expensive way is by a RoRo ship: a great vehicle ferry. Your car will be driven onto the ship and into a slot along other cars. Though secured in place, the car will still be left open alongside other cars, remaining more vulnerable to damage or accident. RoRo is the standard method to ship 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.
These two methods will usually not allow transportation of any personal belongings with the car. In some cases (depending on your car make, for example) a 20-foot container has room to accommodate some personal belongings. With a 40-footer, personal belongings are loaded in first, secured and separated from the vehicle, which is then driven or pushed into the container.
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 Shipping please visit JMN Logistics.

