Shipping a vehicle from the United States to Portugal is a smooth process when you understand the shipping options, total costs, and customs rules involved. Whether you're relocating, importing an American classic, or purchasing a U.S. vehicle for resale, this guide provides the latest 2025 information to help you plan confidently.
Available Shipping Methods from USA to Portugal
1. Ro-Ro Shipping (Roll-On/Roll-Off)
The most economical shipping choice.
Vehicles are driven onto a specialized ship and secured inside the cargo deck.
Works best for running cars, SUVs, and motorcycles.
No cargo or personal belongings allowed inside.
2. Enclosed Container Shipping
Best for luxury cars, EVs, antiques, and performance vehicles.
Offers full weather protection and reduced handling risk.
Available as 20-ft private containers or 40-ft shared containers.
Allows personal items to be shipped inside the container.
3. Shared Container Consolidation
Combines cost-efficiency with safety.
You share container space with other vehicles headed to Portugal/EU ports.
Ideal if you want better protection than Ro-Ro at a mid-range price.
Shipping Costs from the USA to Portugal (2025)
Shipping prices vary based on port, car size, and method. Below are updated averages:
Base Ocean Freight
East Coast → Portugal: $1,200 – $1,450
Gulf Coast → Portugal: $1,300 – $1,550
West Coast → Portugal: $1,850 – $2,300
Additional Fees to Expect
Export documentation: $75–$150
U.S. port & handling: $150–$300
Portugal unloading/terminal fees: $130–$275
Customs entry & processing: $200–$350
Marine insurance: 1–2% of vehicle value
Estimated Total Shipping Cost
Budget Ro-Ro: $1,750 – $2,100
Container (Shared): $2,200 – $2,700
Private Container: $3,000 – $4,500+
⏱️ Transit Time from USA to Portugal
Transit duration depends on departure port:
East Coast → Portugal: 10–16 days
Gulf ports → Portugal: 14–21 days
West Coast → Portugal: 23–34 days
Expect additional time for loading, customs, inspections, and inland delivery.
Required U.S. Export Documentation
Before the car can be shipped, the following must be provided:
Mandatory Documents
Original vehicle title (no liens)
Bill of sale or invoice
Passport or government-issued ID
Export declaration
Power of attorney (if using a shipping agent)
Accuracy is essential—incorrect information can delay loading or customs approval.
Portugal Import Rules for U.S. Vehicles
Importing a non-EU vehicle into Portugal requires customs clearance and compliance checks.
Documents Needed in Portugal
Bill of lading
Original title
Purchase invoice
Customs declaration
Identification (passport/residence card)
Customs Duties & Taxes
Import duty: Around 10% for non-EU vehicles
VAT (IVA): 23%, calculated on:
car value + shipping + insurance + import dutyISV (Vehicle Registration Tax):
Based on engine size, CO₂ emissions, and year of manufacture.
Technical & Compliance Requirements
Vehicles must pass a Portuguese inspection to ensure they meet EU standards.
Some U.S. cars may need modifications to:
headlights
emissions components
fog lights
speedometer display
Classic cars (generally 30+ years old) often qualify for reduced taxation and simplified compliance.
⚙️ Step-by-Step Shipping Process
1️⃣ Select Shipping Method & Confirm Booking
Choose between Ro-Ro or container based on your vehicle type and budget.
2️⃣ Deliver the Vehicle to the U.S. Port
Car is photographed, documented, and prepared for export.
3️⃣ Export Clearance in the USA
Documents are verified, and the vehicle is cleared for loading.
4️⃣ Ocean Transit to Portugal
Your vehicle sails to Lisbon, Setúbal, or Leixões (Porto).
5️⃣ Arrival & Offloading
After unloading, the car moves to the customs inspection area.
6️⃣ Portuguese Customs Clearance
Taxes, duties, and paperwork are processed.
7️⃣ Vehicle Pickup or Delivery
You collect your vehicle or arrange transport throughout Portugal or Europe.
⚠️ What to Avoid When Shipping to Portugal
Shipping a non-running vehicle via Ro-Ro
Forgetting to carry the original title
Leaving more than ¼ tank of fuel
Underestimating ISV taxes
Not preparing for EU roadworthiness standards
Packing personal items in a Ro-Ro vehicle
Who Should Ship a Car to Portugal?
People relocating from the USA
Buyers importing specialty or American muscle cars
Owners of EVs needing enclosed shipping
Collectors transporting rare or vintage cars
Fleet managers and resellers importing multiple units
Contact Expert Vehicle Shipping Services
For safe, fast, and affordable vehicle import from the USA to Portugal:
Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com
Call: +1 (678) 528-5794
WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
