Both are common, and the right choice depends on budget and destination: 1. Container shipping (20ft/40ft): The car is sealed inside a container, offering better protection and allowing you to load spare parts inside the car. Typical cost from Shanghai to major world ports: $1,500-$3,000 per car. Best for long distances and high-value vehicles. 2. RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): The car is driven onto the ship and secured on deck. Cheaper ($800-$1,800 to most ports) and faster to load, but exposed to weather and port handling. Not all routes offer RoRo service. Transit time examples: to the Gulf 15-25 days, to West Africa 30-45 days, to Latin America 25-40 days, to Europe 20-35 days. Ask your exporter which option serves your destination port, and always insure the shipment for full value.

Based on practical risk assessment, we strongly recommend setting aside 3% to 5% of the car price as a buffer fund for even the highest-rated used cars, to cover oil changes, new tires, minor shipping scratches, and local inspection labor costs.

The storage area at the roll-on/roll-off terminal is entirely outdoors, which is standard practice at ports worldwide. During the few days vehicles wait to be loaded, they will inevitably be exposed to sun and rain and accumulate dust. We will not provide custom car covers as this would significantly hinder the efficiency of dock workers moving vehicles.