19 Mar Car Shipping to El Salvador
Shipping a car from the USA to El Salvador is a popular choice for expats, residents, and dealers. American vehicles such as Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Jeep, and Tesla are in high demand, as are Japanese brands like Toyota and Honda.
The main entry point is Port of Acajutla, which handles most international auto imports. By choosing the right shipping method and understanding customs regulations, you can move your car efficiently and securely from the USA to El Salvador.
Key Points to Remember:
- Main port: Acajutla.
- RORO and container shipping available.
- Duties, VAT, and other taxes apply.
- SUVs, pickups, and durable vehicles are very popular.
How to Ship a Car to El Salvador
The process starts by hiring a trusted international auto shipping company. Vehicles are shipped by Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) for cost savings or in containers for extra safety, especially for luxury or electric cars.
Once the vehicle arrives at Acajutla, customs clearance is required. You’ll need the original title, bill of sale, ID, and shipping documents.
Steps to Ship Your Car to El Salvador:
- Choose a reliable U.S. shipping company.
- Select between RORO and container shipping.
- Gather necessary documents: title, bill of sale, ID, insurance.
- Ship to Acajutla Port.
- Complete customs clearance and pay applicable taxes.
Vehicle Shipping Methods
RoRo Shipping
Ideal for running vehicles
- Drive-on, drive-off convenience
- Lowest cost option
- Faster shipping times
Container Shipping
Dedicated container for vehicles.
- Full container, maximum security
- Space for cars, machinery, or items
- Weather-protected and safe
Heavy Machinery and RV/camper and Static /break bulk
Safe and reliable heavy machinery transport.
- Door-to-door or port-to-port
- For excavators, loaders, bulldozers & more
- Insurance coverage available
Cost of Shipping a Car to El Salvador
The cost of shipping a car from the USA to El Salvador depends on departure port, method, and vehicle size. On average, RORO costs $1,000 – $1,400, while container shipping ranges from $1,500 – $2,200.
Import costs include customs duties (5%–30%), 13% VAT, and additional excise taxes depending on vehicle type and engine size.
Factors Affecting Cost:
- U.S. departure port (Miami, Houston, Los Angeles, New York).
- Shipping method: RORO vs container.
- Vehicle weight and size.
- Customs duty: 5%–30% of CIF value.
- VAT: 13% of CIF + duty.
- Excise taxes for large-engine vehicles.
Best Way to Ship a Car to El Salvador
The best shipping method depends on your car type and budget. RORO is the most economical for standard sedans and SUVs, while container shipping provides better protection for expensive or electric vehicles.
Best Methods:
- RORO: Low-cost for standard vehicles.
- Container: Secure for luxury and EVs.
- Air Freight: Fastest but very expensive.
Car Import Regulations & Taxes in El Salvador
El Salvador enforces clear rules on car imports. Vehicles should not exceed a certain age, and taxes must be paid before customs release.
Taxes include customs duties (5%–30%), 13% VAT, and excise taxes based on vehicle type and engine size. Hybrid and electric cars may receive tax reductions.
Key Import Rules:
- Vehicle age limits apply (older cars face restrictions).
- Customs duty: 5%–30% of CIF value.
- VAT: 13% applied on CIF + duty.
- Excise duty: Higher for luxury and large-engine vehicles.
- Required documents: Title, bill of sale, ID, shipping papers.
Popular Routes for Car Shipping
Most U.S. shipments arrive at Acajutla Port.
Common Routes:
- Miami → Acajutla.
- Houston → Acajutla.
- New York → Acajutla.
- Los Angeles → Acajutla.
Car Shipping by Vehicle Type
Your shipping method often depends on vehicle type. Compact cars usually go via RORO, while larger SUVs, pickups, and luxury cars often go in containers.
Commonly Shipped Vehicles:
- Sedans: Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion.
- SUVs: Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota RAV4, Ford Explorer.
- Trucks: Toyota Hilux, Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado.
- Sports Cars: Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang.
- Electric Cars: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf.
- Luxury Vehicles: BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
Car Shipping by Brands & Models
El Salvador’s market values both American and Japanese cars. SUVs and pickups dominate imports due to local demand.
Popular Cars Imported:
- Ford Explorer, Ford F-150.
- Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevy Silverado.
- Dodge Ram 1500, Dodge Charger.
- Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Cherokee.
- Toyota Hilux, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Land Cruiser.
- Honda Civic, Honda CR-V.
- Tesla Model 3, Model Y.
- Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X5.
Tips for Affordable & Reliable Car Shipping
To keep costs down, plan ahead and confirm customs requirements before booking.
Tips to Save Money & Ensure Safety:
- Compare quotes from multiple shippers.
- Book early to save on costs.
- Use RORO for standard vehicles.
- Use containers for luxury or EVs.
- Verify age restrictions before buying a car.
- Get marine insurance for protection.
Contact Information of El Salvador Customs Department
For updated requirements and fees, contact El Salvador Customs.
El Salvador Customs Contact:
- Website: https://www.aduana.gob.sv
- Phone: +503 2244 5180
- Address: Dirección General de Aduanas, San Salvador, El Salvador
Conclusion – Ship Your Car to El Salvador with Ease
Car shipping from the USA to El Salvador is simple with professional assistance. The Port of Acajutla is well-equipped to handle vehicle imports, ensuring safe delivery. Whether you’re shipping a pickup, SUV, or electric car, international auto transport services provide efficiency and reliability.
Start your shipment today. Visit ROROFROMUSA.COM for a free quote and enjoy cost-effective car shipping from the USA to El Salvador.
