Are you planning to ship your car from the UK to another country in 2025? If you’re moving, selling your car abroad or out of state, or sharing it with a family member, the process does not have to be complicated if you are properly prepared. In this guide, we will discuss how to prepare your car for overseas shipping using simple steps and clear advice.
How to Prepare Your Car for Overseas Shipping?
Start preparing at least a couple of weeks before your ship date. Here is a simple checklist for car export from the UK.
Clean the Car Inside and Out
Wash the outside and vacuum the inside of your car. It’s easier to look for existing damage with a clean car. No personal belongings will be allowed inside during international vehicle shipping.
Take Photos of the Vehicle
Create detailed photos of your car at every angle. Note any scratches, dents, or blemishes. This can be useful if you later need to file an insurance claim.
Fix All Mechanical Problems and Fluid Leaks
Keep your vehicle well-maintained. Let the transport company know in advance if it doesn’t run. Repair any oil or coolant leaks before sending it by ship.
Reduce Fuel to a Minimum
Keep no more than one-quarter tank of fuel in your tank before international car shipping. It’s a safety precaution, but it also makes the vehicle lighter to handle.
Disable Notifications and Doff Toll Tags
Turn off any alarms and take off UK toll tags such as Dart Charge or Congestion Charge devices.
Check Tyre Pressure and Battery
Check all the tyres for proper inflation. The battery must be fully charged and securely installed.
Remove Accessories and Fold Mirrors
Remove additional items such as roof boxes, spoilers, or bike racks. Try to fold up the side mirrors to prevent damage. This is especially vital for RoRo car preparation since vehicles are driven directly onto and off the ship.
Lock the car and leave a key (you have a spare set at home anyhow, right?)
Finally, your car is loaded, and no one touches it until it reaches its destination. Lock the doors and give the transport company a spare key to one of the cars.
This is how you can prepare Your Car for Export from the UK, one step at a time.
What Documents Are Needed to Ship a Car Overseas?
Paperwork is essential. All the paperwork has to be in place before the shipping date. Here’s generally what you’ll need in the UK:
- V5C Logbook: The UK registration document for a vehicle is designed to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle.
- Passport/Driving Licence Copy: To confirm identity.
- Bill of Sale or Purchase Invoice: If you purchased the car recently.
- Shipping contract: A signed contract between a shipping company and the shipper.
- Export Notification (if the car is going to be taken abroad permanently) – Notify the DVLA if you are taking your car abroad permanently.
- Customs and Import Documents: Extra forms may be requested by the destination country.
- Insurance Papers: Not required by law — but definitely a good idea.
These are what make up the foundation of the car shipping requirements UK and should cover 90% of your questions that you may be asking, such as what documents are required to ship a car overseas.
To keep everything in order, you should follow something like a car export checklist from the UK, which most shipping companies will also give.
How to Avoid Damage During Car Shipping?
It’s easier than you think to avoid any damage while on a transport internationally. Here are some safety tips for your vehicle.
Choose the Right Shipping Method
Typically, you’ll have two options: RoRo or container shipping. RoRo is cheap and great for cars, but less safe.
Containers are more expensive but safer from the elements and thievery. If you’ve decided on a container, you can also use these tips as a container car shipping prep guide.
Select a Trusted Shipping Company
Select a firm that has had a good amount of experience in transporting vehicles. Read reviews, inquire about their damage policy, and see if they’re members of trade associations like the British International Freight Association (BIFA).
If you’re looking for a reliable company to ship your car, trust Ascope Shipping. With 15 years of experience, we are offering affordable car shipping services.
Secure Loose Items
If carrying extra things inside the container, such as those to be used in the new home, strap everything in place, and pad what needs padding. Loose items inside the vehicle can become dangerous projectiles in a sudden stop or collision.
Take Before and After Photos
This serves as evidence of the condition of your vehicles, and it validates any damage claim. Take photos when you drop it off and when you retrieve it.
Follow Shipping Instructions
Each company will provide you with guidance on how to ship a car overseas. These can be things like special conditions for vehicles with non-factory components or large tyres. You have to follow the instructions.
Final Thoughts
How to prepare your car for overseas shipping in 2025? The process won’t be painful and stressful if you do the right preparation. Book ahead of time, especially during the high season. Check to ensure that you have all the right paperwork, and take the time to prepare your vehicle with the aid of this guide.
This article discussed some of the basics of how to prepare your car for overseas shipping – cleaning, inspecting for damage, and information papers.
Follow this car shipping preparation guide 2025 to make the most out of your move in terms of safety and ease. For any help, you can trust Ascope Shipping. With more than 15 years of experience, we are offering car shipping services in the UK.
