Car Shipping to Malta from the UK
Ascope Shipping arranges car shipping from the UK to Malta using RoRo and container services. We can arrange vehicle collection in the UK, export documentation, ocean freight and destination clearance, depending on the service selected.
Whether you are shipping a family car, 4×4, van, classic vehicle or another road vehicle, we can advise on the most suitable shipping method, available departure port, estimated transit time and total shipping cost.
Vehicles can be shipped to Malta through ports including Valletta and Malta Freeport, with the exact route depending on the carrier and sailing schedule.
How to Ship a Car from the UK to Malta
- Request a quote
- Provide vehicle details
- Choose RoRo or container shipping
- Arrange UK collection or port delivery
- Complete UK export documentation
- Vehicle is loaded and shipped
- Malta customs/clearance
- Registration and onward delivery
RoRo or Container Shipping to Malta
We offer a range of international car shipping services to Malta to suit your vehicle type, budget, and schedule. Our two main options include RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) shipping, where vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel for efficient and cost-effective transport, and container shipping, where vehicles are securely loaded inside 20ft or 40ft containers for added protection during the journey from the UK to Malta.
RoRo Car Shipping to Malta
RoRo(Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping is generally the most straightforward option for standard cars, vans and other running vehicles. The vehicle is driven onto the vessel at the UK port and secured in the dedicated vehicle deck for the sea journey.
RoRo can be a cost-effective option when you are shipping a standard vehicle without personal belongings inside it.
Container Car Shipping to Malta
Container shipping provides an alternative for vehicles that require additional protection or where a vehicle is being shipped together with permitted personal effects or other cargo. Classic, prestige and non-standard vehicles may also benefit from container shipping depending on their requirements.
If you are primarily shipping household goods, commercial cargo or a full container rather than a vehicle, see our dedicated container shipping to Malta page.
RoRo Vs Container Shipping to Malta
When shipping to Malta, choosing between RoRo and container shipping depends on your vehicle, budget, and schedule. RoRo shipping is more affordable, offers faster loading and unloading, and is ideal for standard vehicles, with usually shorter transit times. Container shipping, while higher in cost, provides greater security and is suitable for luxury, electric, or multiple vehicles. It requires more planning and slightly longer transit due to handling. Our team helps you select the best method for a smooth, reliable shipment.
Car Shipping Costs from the UK to Malta
The cost of shipping a car to Malta depends on the vehicle size, UK collection location, departure port, shipping method and current sailing rates. The following prices are indicative and your final quote will depend on your individual shipment.
| Vehicle type | RO/RO Prices |
|---|
| Saloon Vehicle e.g BMW 3 series | £1085 |
| 4×4 Vehicle e.g. Freelander | £1240 |
| Vans e.g Vauxhall Combo | Enquire |
| 2 cars (saloon / 4×4) | Enquire |
What Affects the Cost of Shipping a Car to Malta?
Several factors affect the cost of shipping a vehicle from the UK to Malta, including:
- Vehicle make, model and dimensions
- RoRo or container shipping
- UK collection location
- Departure port
- Destination port
- Whether the vehicle is running or non-running
- Current shipping schedules and carrier rates
- Any additional collection, port or destination services
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from the UK to Malta?
Transit times vary according to the UK departure port, shipping method, carrier schedule and destination arrangements. As a general guide, UK to Malta vehicle shipments can take around 8–14 days, although the actual transit and overall delivery time can vary.
Documents Needed to Ship a Car from the UK to Malta
Before shipping, your vehicle must have all necessary documents ready:
- V5C/logbook
- proof of ownership/purchase documentation where applicable
- photo identification
- Bill of Lading
- UK export documentation
- commercial invoice where applicable
- insurance documentation
- Malta customs documentation
- any additional documents required for vehicle registration
The exact documents required can vary according to the vehicle and the circumstances of the import. Transport Malta’s current registration guidance should be checked before shipment.
How Our Car Shipping to Malta Service Works
1. Request a quote
Provide the vehicle details and UK collection address.
2. Choose the shipping method
We advise whether RoRo or container shipping is appropriate.
3. Arrange collection
We can arrange collection from your UK address or you can deliver the vehicle to the nominated port.
4. Complete export paperwork
The required UK export documentation is prepared before shipment.
5. Vehicle shipment
The vehicle is loaded and shipped to Malta according to the booked sailing.
6. Malta arrival and customs
The vehicle is processed through the relevant destination procedures.
7. Collection or delivery
Once released, onward collection or delivery can be arranged where available.
UK Ports for Car Shipping to Malta
We operate from all major UK ports, providing convenient access for our customers:
- Liverpool Port: ideal for Northern UK shipments
- Southampton Port: fastest and most frequent sailings
- Tilbury Port: excellent for container and multi-car shipments
The best departure port depends on your vehicle’s collection location and the available sailing schedule. We can advise which UK port is most suitable when preparing your quote.
Importing a Car from the UK to Malta
Because the UK is outside the EU customs territory, vehicles shipped from Great Britain to Malta are subject to import procedures. Customs duty, VAT and vehicle registration charges may apply depending on the vehicle and the circumstances of the import. Malta customs confirms that the UK is treated as a non-EU country for customs purposes.
The amount payable can depend on factors including the vehicle’s customs value, origin, age and the circumstances of the owner. You should confirm the applicable charges with Malta Customs and Transport Malta before importing the vehicle.
Moving to Malta with Your Own Car
If you are moving your residence from the UK to Malta and bringing a vehicle that you already own, different customs arrangements may apply. Malta Customs provides specific procedures for importing a private motor vehicle as part of a transfer of residence, including conditions relating to residence outside the EU and how long the vehicle has been owned and used.
If you are moving to Malta with your own vehicle, check the current eligibility requirements with Malta Customs before arranging shipment.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR CAR SHIPPING TO MALTA FROM THE UK
- Clean the vehicle and remove personal belongings
- Ensure all fluids are topped up
- Take photographs of your car for condition records
- Provide accurate documentation and export certificates
- Choose RoRo or container shipping based on your needs
Following these steps reduces delays and ensures a smooth, efficient shipping process.
Vehicle Registration in Malta
Once a vehicle arrives in Malta, it must meet the applicable registration requirements before it can be legally used on Maltese roads. Transport Malta requires specific documentation for vehicles imported from the UK, and requirements can differ depending on whether the vehicle is new or used and when it was registered in the UK.
Documents can include the vehicle registration documents, insurance, vehicle inspection or VRT documentation where applicable, customs documentation and other registration forms. Transport Malta’s current guidance should be checked before the vehicle is shipped.
For used vehicles imported from the UK, Transport Malta also states that certain vehicles require additional approval documentation depending on their registration date and circumstances.
WHAT ITEMS ARE RESTRICTED FOR CAR SHIPPING TO MALTA FROM THE UK?
Certain items cannot be shipped in vehicles or containers:
- Explosives or flammable materials
- Hazardous chemicals
- Illegal substances
- Unpermitted electronics or restricted goods
Our team provides a full list of restricted items and ensures your shipment meets Malta’s import regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Shipping to Malta
How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Malta?
Price for shipping a small sedan car is £1085 and for a 4×4 car it is £1240 on RoRo service, vehicle size, collection location, port and RoRo/container method affect the final price.
How long does it take to ship a car from the UK to Malta?
Transit time is between 8–14 days, actual transit depends on the port of sailing and vessel route.
Can I ship my car to Malta using RoRo?
Yes, RoRo is the most affordable shipping method for shipping cars to Malta. Please note, car has to be drivable and gear and break working without any issues.
Can I ship my car to Malta in a container?
Yes, car can be loaded and strapped in a container before shipping. This is the safest method of shipping cars.
What documents do I need to ship a car to Malta?
Documents requred for shipping a car to Malta are V5C/logbook, proof of ownership/purchase documentation where applicable, photo identification, Bill of Lading, UK export documentation, commercial invoice where applicable, insurance documentation, Malta customs documentation and any additional documents required for vehicle registration.
Do I have to pay import duty and VAT when importing a UK car into Malta?
UK imports are subject to customs procedures and that applicable duty/VAT depend on the circumstances.
Does a UK car need to be registered in Malta?
Vehicles intended for use in Malta need to meet Transport Malta’s registration requirements.
Can I bring my car when moving to Malta?
Yes, but please note that transfer-of-residence exemptions/reliefs have specific conditions.
Ready to Ship Your Car to Malta?
Contact us today at 01482 228366 or email sales@ascopeshipping.co.uk for a personalised quote. With over 15 years of experience, Ascope Shipping handles your car shipping from the UK to Malta with professionalism, reliability, and complete peace of mind, whether you choose RoRo or container transport. We ensure a seamless, secure, and hassle-free experience, whether you are shipping a single vehicle, multiple cars, or high-value vehicles. Our team will guide you through documentation and delivery to Valletta or Malta Freeport, so your shipment arrives safely.
