To ship a car of high value such as a Mustang, a symbol of American muscle and engineering excellence, can be a complex process. Whether you’re relocating or selling your prized possession, you’ll want to ensure it arrives at its destination safely and legally. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of shipping a Mustang, covering everything from car dimensions to shipping options, and the essential paperwork you’ll need.
Before you can start to ship a car, it’s essential to understand the specific details about your car. Here are some important considerations especially with a Mustang:
Dimensions: A standard Ford Mustang has a length of approximately 188.5 inches, a width of about 75.4 inches, and a height of around 54.3 inches. These measurements can vary slightly depending on the specific model and year. To ship a car of this kind, you need to make sure the vehicle will fit inside a container or have sufficient ground clearance for a RORO vessel.
Mustangs typically have a ground clearance of 5.5 to 5.7 inches, which should be taken into account when choosing to ship a car, especially if your Mustang has a lowered suspension.
When choosing to ship a car, especially internationally, proper documentation is crucial. You’ll need a commercial invoice that includes the following information:
Vehicle details: Make, model, year, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and license plate.
Seller and buyer information.
Purchase price.
Shipping costs.
Shipping method and destination.
Some countries have age restrictions on imported vehicles, meaning your Mustang may need to meet specific age criteria to enter certain markets. Before proceeding to ship a car, check with the destination country’s customs regulations to ensure your Mustang can be legally imported.
Different countries have varying emission standards. Before shipping your Mustang, make sure it complies with the emission regulations of the destination country. You may need to retrofit your car to meet these standards, considering the costs of these modifications will also be needed before choosing to ship a car.
Depending on the country you want to ship a car to, there may be regulations regarding right-hand or left-hand drive vehicles. Ensure your Mustang complies with the requirements of the destination country.
High-value cars, such as Mustangs, can be subject to substantial import taxes and duties. Research the tax and duty rates in the destination country to estimate the additional costs associated with importing your car before you decide to ship a car.
Shipping Methods to Ship a Car
There are several options to ship a car such as a Mustang:
Enclosed Trailer Transport: This method offers maximum protection for your vehicle. It’s ideal for valuable or classic cars like the Mustang, protecting them from the elements and potential damage during transit, this is important to consider before you ship a car.
Container Shipping: Your Mustang can be loaded into a shipping container for added protection. This method is particularly useful for international shipping, and if the vehicle has a lowered suspension.
RORO Shipping: Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) is a cost-effective option where your Mustang is driven onto a specialized ship, making it a popular choice to ship a car.
Before shipping your Mustang, there are several essential steps you need to take. Clean your car thoroughly to document any pre-existing damage.
Remove any personal belongings from the car.
Disable the car alarm.
Check the fluid levels and tire pressure.
Document any existing mechanical issues.
To ship a car, specifically a Mustang is a significant undertaking, but with careful planning and the right information, you can ensure a safe and successful transport. Understanding your Mustang’s dimensions, complying with destination restrictions, and choosing the right shipping method are all key factors in the process. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to ship your Mustang to its next destination, whether it’s across the country or around the world.