If you’re looking to ship a car to Spain, you’ll find several reliable transport routes and import procedures to suit both short-term stays and permanent relocations. Spain remains a top destination for British expats, seasonal visitors, and collectors, but it’s important to plan properly to meet all legal and technical requirements.
Transport Options to Spain
You can ship a car to Spain through air freight, sea freight, or road transport.
Air freight is the fastest method, perfect for high-end or time-sensitive vehicles. Cars are carefully packed and flown to airports such as Madrid-Barajas or Barcelona-El Prat. While expensive, this is ideal for show cars, luxury vehicles, or when delivery speed is crucial.
Sea freight remains the most popular and cost-effective way to ship a car to Spain. RORO vessels are commonly used for everyday vehicles, while container shipping is suited for high-value or classic cars that require extra care. Main arrival ports include Barcelona, Valencia and Sagunto
Road transport is a straightforward choice for customers based in the UK or Europe. Transporters can collect your car from your home and deliver it directly to your Spanish destination. It’s flexible, often faster than sea freight, and avoids complex port handling.
Vehicle Age Regulations
When you ship a car to Spain, it must meet local and EU emission standards. Vehicles newer than 10 years usually comply without issue, while older cars may require modifications or face registration restrictions in certain regions. Classic cars over 30 years old can be registered as historic vehicles, which often means reduced road taxes and inspection exemptions.
After Brexit, UK vehicles are classed as non-EU imports, so you’ll need to complete customs procedures. Import VAT (usually 21%) may apply, though exemptions exist for returning residents bringing personal vehicles.
Tourist vs. Permanent Import
If you’re visiting Spain temporarily, you can keep your UK-registered vehicle for up to six months without paying import duties, as long as you remain a tourist and the vehicle is insured and taxed in the UK. Beyond that, you must register it in Spain.
Permanent imports require customs clearance, payment of IVA (VAT), registration tax, and passing the ITV inspection (Spain’s equivalent of the MOT). Documentation such as proof of ownership, ID, and the vehicle’s CoC are mandatory.
Whether for a holiday home, a new life abroad, or a vintage collection, deciding how to ship a car to Spain depends on timing, value, and compliance. By choosing a professional logistics provider and preparing the right paperwork, you can ensure your vehicle reaches Spain safely and legally.
Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, International Shipping & Logistics Company with 30 years of experience, will be able to offers several services for your Yacht and Boat Transport / Customs Clearance / Import and UK Vehicle Registration to confidently support your shipment in either Import or Export for any type of equipment.
Contact us at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited – bizdev@tglog.co.uk – phone 07833 410 281 www.tglog.co.uk