Shipping cars
Shipping your car from Hawaii to Korea requires specific documentation and may be an expensive proposition. This process can be simplified if you rely on a reputable international freight forwarder. Documentation, restrictions and procedures are all spelled out and arranged for you by professionals. Shipping quotes are free and easy to get online. Always research the company before making your final choice, paying special attention to unsolicited consumer ratings. People who have used the services before can be an asset in helping you make your decision.
Instructions
1. Determine the Hawaiian port you will be shipping your car from and the destination port in Korea for pickup. You will need this basic information to obtain a quote from the freight forwarders.
2. Decide on your shipping method. There are two ways to ship an automobile internationally. Roll on/roll off, "ro-ro," is the simplest and least expensive way as well as the method of choice for all main car manufacturers. Your car is driven onto the ship and secured inside the car deck using straps and braces. No personal items may be stored in your car using ro-ro shipping. Your other option is container shipping, where your car is loaded onto your 20-foot or 40-foot container. The car is secured to the floor of the container during shipping. You may store other personal items inside the car and the container using this method.
3. Choose an international freight forwarder. Get quotes from at least three companies offering car transportation from Hawaii to Korea (see Resources below).
4. Prepare to pay. In addition to shipping costs, you will incur hefty fees to bring your car into Korea. Among these include customs duty, registration tax, education tax and acquisition tax, in addition to buying a bond. These taxes and fees are based on the current value of the car and may range from 58 to 68 percent. Contact the Korean customs representative for more information.
5. Make sure your car is clean, both inside and out. Depending on the freight forwarder you choose, they may offer this service for you.
