04/06/2026
5 Common Mistakes People Make When Shipping a Vehicle Overseas
Shipping a car abroad sounds simple, until something goes wrong. Over the years, we've seen the same mistakes come up again and again. Here's what to avoid before your vehicle leaves UK shores.
Not checking the documents early enough. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the number one cause of delays. You'll need your V5C, passport copy, vehicle invoice, and Bill of Lading, sorted well before your sailing date.
Choosing the wrong shipping method. RoRo is great for standard vehicles and keeps costs down. But if you're sending a classic, luxury, or non-running car, container shipping offers far better protection. Picking wrong can cost you more in the long run.
Leaving personal items inside the vehicle. Most shipping methods don't cover personal belongings left in the car. Customs can also flag this and cause unnecessary hold-ups at the port.
Not researching import duties at the destination. Every country has different rules. Some charge heavily on UK imports. Knowing this upfront saves you from a nasty surprise on arrival.
Going with the cheapest quote without checking reliability. Price matters, but so does trust. Always check reviews, experience, and whether the company actually specialises in vehicle shipping.
At Ascope Shipping, we've been helping customers avoid exactly these mistakes for over 15 years. We handle everything from documentation to customs, so you don't have to worry.
Get your free quote today or call us at 01482 228366.
