04 Jul Car Shipping to France
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Shipping a car from the USA to France is a popular choice for expatriates, businesses, car collectors, and military personnel. American vehicles such as Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, and Tesla, along with luxury European brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, are frequently imported.
The Port of Le Havre is France’s largest vehicle entry point, with Marseille and Fos-sur-Mer also handling international shipments. With the right preparation, importing your vehicle to France can be smooth and efficient.
Key Points to Remember:
- Main ports: Le Havre, Marseille, Fos-sur-Mer.
- RORO and container shipping available.
- EU import duties, VAT, and registration taxes apply.
- U.S. cars must meet EU technical and emissions standards.
How to Ship a Car to France
The process begins by selecting a reliable U.S. international shipping company. Vehicles can be shipped via Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) for cost savings or in containers for additional protection, which is ideal for luxury, classic, and electric cars.
On arrival in France, customs clearance and conformity checks are required. Documents such as the original title, bill of sale, passport/ID, and shipping papers must be presented.
Steps to Ship Your Car to France:
- Choose a trusted U.S. shipping company.
- Select RORO or container transport.
- Prepare documentation: title, bill of sale, ID, insurance.
- Ship to Le Havre, Marseille, or Fos-sur-Mer.
- Clear French customs and complete registration.
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 France
The cost of shipping a car from the USA to France depends on departure port, vehicle type, and shipping method. On average, RORO costs $1,200 – $1,700, while container shipping ranges $1,800 – $2,500.
France also applies 10% EU customs duty, 20% VAT, and a registration tax based on CO₂ emissions and vehicle type.
Factors Affecting Cost:
- U.S. departure ports: New York, Baltimore, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami.
- Shipping method: RORO vs container.
- Vehicle size, weight, and type.
- Customs duty: 10% of CIF value.
- VAT: 20% on CIF + duty.
- Registration tax: Based on emissions.
Best Way to Ship a Car to France
The ideal method depends on your vehicle type and budget.
Best Methods:
- RORO: Affordable for sedans and standard vehicles.
- Container: Best for luxury, EVs, or high-value vehicles.
- Air Freight: Fast but expensive, used for exotic or urgent shipments.
Car Import Regulations & Taxes in France
France, as an EU member, applies strict import and emissions regulations. Vehicles must meet EU safety and emissions standards before registration. Non-compliant cars may require modifications.
Taxes include 10% customs duty, 20% VAT, and a registration tax (malus écologique) based on CO₂ emissions. Electric and hybrid cars often enjoy reduced or waived taxes.
Key Import Rules:
- Vehicles must comply with EU safety and emissions standards.
- Customs duty: 10% of CIF value.
- VAT: 20% of CIF + duty.
- Registration tax: Based on CO₂ emissions.
- Documents: Title, bill of sale, ID, proof of residence, insurance.
Popular Routes for Car Shipping
France has well-developed shipping routes from the USA.
Common Routes:
- New York → Le Havre.
- Baltimore → Le Havre.
- Houston → Marseille.
- Los Angeles → Fos-sur-Mer (via transshipment).
- Miami → Le Havre.
Car Shipping by Vehicle Type
Different vehicles are handled differently depending on size and value.
Commonly Shipped Vehicles to France:
- Sedans: Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Toyota Corolla.
- SUVs: Jeep Cherokee, BMW X5, Toyota RAV4.
- Luxury Cars: Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A6.
- Pickups: Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado.
- Electric Cars: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf.
- Sports Cars: Dodge Challenger, Porsche 911.
Car Shipping by Brands & Models
Both American and European models are commonly shipped to France.
Popular Cars Imported:
- Ford Mustang, Ford Explorer.
- Chevrolet Camaro, Chevy Silverado.
- Dodge Charger, Dodge Ram 1500.
- Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Grand Cherokee.
- Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Hilux.
- Honda Civic, Honda CR-V.
- Tesla Model 3, Model Y.
- BMW X5, Audi Q7, Audi A6.
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class, GLC, S-Class.
Tips for Affordable & Reliable Car Shipping
Planning ahead helps lower costs and ensures compliance.
Tips to Save Money & Ensure Safety:
- Compare multiple shipping quotes.
- Use RORO for affordable transport.
- Choose containers for luxury and EVs.
- Confirm EU compliance before shipping.
- Secure marine insurance.
- Book early to save on shipping rates.
Contact Information of France Customs Department
For the latest regulations and taxes, contact French Customs.
French Customs Contact:
- Website: https://douane.gouv.fr
- Phone: +33 1 72 40 78 50
- Address: French Customs Headquarters, 11 rue des Deux Communes, 93558 Montreuil Cedex, France
Conclusion – Ship Your Car to France with Ease
Car shipping from the USA to France is efficient when handled by experts. Whether you are importing a sedan, SUV, luxury model, or electric vehicle, international shipping companies ensure safe and timely delivery to Le Havre, Marseille, or Fos-sur-Mer.
Start your shipment today. Visit ROROFROMUSA.COM for a free quote and enjoy reliable, affordable car shipping from the USA to France.