01 Jul Car Shipping to Chile
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Shipping a car from the USA to Chile is a popular option for individuals, expatriates, and businesses seeking reliable vehicles. American brands such as Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Tesla are in demand across Chile for their performance, technology, and durability.
Chile’s strong trade connections with the USA, along with modern ports like San Antonio and Valparaíso, make it one of South America’s most accessible markets for car imports. With the right preparation, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective shipping process.
Key Points to Remember:
- Main ports: San Antonio and Valparaíso.
- RORO and container shipping are the most common methods.
- Customs duties and VAT apply.
- SUVs, trucks, and electric cars are popular imports.
How to Ship a Car to Chile
Shipping begins with choosing a trusted international auto transport company. Vehicles are shipped via Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) for affordability or container shipping for extra protection.
Cars typically arrive at San Antonio or Valparaíso, where customs clearance is handled. Required documents include the original title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and personal identification.
Steps to Ship Your Car to Chile:
- Select a reliable auto shipping company.
- Choose RORO or container shipping.
- Prepare documentation (title, bill of sale, ID, insurance).
- Ship to San Antonio or Valparaíso.
- Clear customs and pay import duties.
Cost of Shipping a Car to Chile
The cost of shipping a car from the USA to Chile depends on the U.S. departure port, shipping method, and vehicle type. RORO shipping typically costs $1,200 – $1,700, while container shipping ranges from $1,800 – $2,400.
Customs charges include 6% import duty and 19% VAT on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). Luxury vehicles or those with large engines may face additional excise taxes.
Factors Affecting Cost:
- Departure port in the USA (Los Angeles, Houston, New York).
- Shipping method: RORO vs container.
- Vehicle type, weight, and size.
- Customs duty (6%) and VAT (19%).
- Additional excise taxes for certain vehicles.
Best Way to Ship a Car to Chile
The best way to ship a car to Chile depends on your budget and vehicle type. RORO is ideal for standard cars and SUVs, offering affordability and efficiency. Container shipping is best for luxury, classic, or electric vehicles needing extra safety.
Air freight is available but only recommended for urgent or rare vehicles due to high costs.
Best Methods:
- RORO: Cost-effective for everyday vehicles.
- Container: Secure option for luxury, electric, and collector cars.
- Air Freight: Fast but not cost-efficient.
Car Import Regulations & Taxes in Chile
Chile enforces strict regulations for car imports. Most used cars cannot be imported unless they fall under special categories such as classic cars, diplomats, or returning residents. Electric vehicles, however, may qualify for exemptions.
Taxes include 6% customs duty, 19% VAT, and possible excise taxes. Cars must also meet Chile’s safety and emissions standards.
Key Import Rules:
- Used car imports are highly restricted.
- Exceptions: classic cars, diplomats, returning residents.
- Customs duty: 6% of CIF value.
- VAT: 19% of CIF value.
- Required documents: Title, bill of sale, ID, shipping papers.
Popular Routes for Car Shipping
Vehicles from the USA are shipped to Chile’s major Pacific coast ports.
Common Shipping Routes:
- Los Angeles → Valparaíso
- Houston → San Antonio
- New York → Valparaíso
- Miami → San Antonio
Car Shipping by Vehicle Type
Sedans and compact cars are usually shipped by RORO, while SUVs, trucks, and luxury vehicles often ship in containers. Electric vehicles like Tesla models are usually transported in containers for added protection.
Types of Vehicles Commonly Shipped to Chile:
- Sedans: Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima.
- SUVs: Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Land Cruiser, BMW X5.
- Trucks: Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Silverado.
- Sports Cars: Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, Porsche 911.
- Electric Cars: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf.
- Classic and collector vehicles.
Car Shipping by Brands & Models
Chile imports vehicles from multiple regions, but American cars are gaining popularity alongside Japanese and European models.
Popular Cars Shipped to Chile:
- Ford F-150, Ford Explorer.
- Chevrolet Silverado, Chevy Tahoe.
- Dodge Charger, Dodge Ram 1500.
- Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Hilux.
- Toyota Corolla, Toyota Land Cruiser.
- Honda Civic, Honda CR-V.
- Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y.
- BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
- Audi Q5, Porsche Cayenne.
Tips for Affordable & Reliable Car Shipping
Save money by booking in advance, comparing multiple quotes, and choosing RORO for everyday cars. Container shipping is recommended for high-value or electric vehicles.
Always confirm Chile’s import restrictions before shipping to avoid delays.
Tips to Save Money & Ensure Safety:
- Book early to secure better rates.
- Compare several shipping quotes.
- Use RORO for affordability.
- Choose container shipping for luxury or EVs.
- Verify Chile’s import restrictions in advance.
- Always include marine insurance.
Contact Information of Chile Customs Department
For the latest regulations and requirements, contact Chilean Customs.
Chile Customs Contact:
- Website: https://www.aduana.cl
- Phone: +56 2 2496 1000
- Address: Servicio Nacional de Aduanas, Valparaíso, Chile
Conclusion – Ship Your Car to Chile with Ease
Car shipping from the USA to Chile is simple with the right planning. By understanding costs, shipping methods, and import regulations, you can ensure your car arrives safely at San Antonio or Valparaíso. Whether you’re importing an SUV, truck, or Tesla, professional shippers provide secure and efficient solutions.
Get started today. Visit ROROFROMUSA.COM for a free quote and experience reliable, affordable car shipping from the USA to Chile.