Shipping a car to Puerto Rico might seem daunting with the ocean crossing, paperwork, and fees involved, but it’s a straightforward process that thousands handle yearly for relocations, military moves, or bringing a beloved vehicle to the island’s sunny roads. In essence, you’ll arrange transport from a mainland U.S. port (like Jacksonville, FL) to San Juan via RoRo or container shipping, handle excise taxes through Hacienda’s SURI system, clear DTOP registration, and pick up your wheels ready to roll. Expect total costs of $2,000–$5,000 including shipping ($1,200–$3,500) and taxes (6.6–13.5% of vehicle value), with 7–14 days transit time. This guide breaks it down simply so you can focus on island life—whether you’re eyeing enclosed options for a classic ride or budgeting for open transport. Let’s dive in.
What Are the Main Methods for Shipping a Car to Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory simplifies things—no full customs clearance like international moves—but you’ll still ship via sea from key East Coast ports. The two primary methods balance cost, speed, and protection.
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RoRo vs. Container Shipping: Which Is Right for You?
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) is the go-to for most, where your car drives onto a vessel and secures in open bays—affordable at $1,200–$2,500 but exposed to elements. Container shipping encloses your vehicle for $2,000–$3,500, ideal for luxury or modified cars to avoid salt spray damage. For context, if you’re shipping a standard sedan cross-country first, factor in $800–$1,200 for inland haul as detailed in our comprehensive cross-country car shipping guide. Door-to-port is common (pickup at home, drop at San Juan), while port-to-port saves if you’re near Jacksonville.
| Method | Cost Range | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| RoRo (Open) | $1,200–$2,500 | 7–10 days | Budget moves, standard vehicles |
| Container (Enclosed) | $2,000–$3,500 | 10–14 days | High-value or classic cars |
| Air Freight | $5,000+ | 2–5 days | Urgent, but rarely practical |
Pro tip: Avoid peak hurricane season (June–November) for delays; book off-peak for 10–20% savings.
Pros and Cons of RoRo vs. Container Shipping
Advantages
- RoRo is budget-friendly: Lower base ocean freight rates make it ideal for standard vehicles.
- Container offers better protection: Enclosed walls shield from salt air, weather, and port exposure.
- Flexible route options: Multiple East Coast ports serve San Juan with frequent sailings.
- Door-to-port convenience: Inland carrier pickup simplifies logistics for long-distance shippers.
- Predictable transit windows: Typical 7–14 day sailings fit most relocation timelines.
Disadvantages
- Exposure with RoRo: Vehicles sit in open bays, making them vulnerable to elements.
- Higher cost for containers: Enclosed shipping can add $500–$1,500+ over RoRo.
- Premium surcharges in peak season: Hurricane and busy months can raise rates and delay sailings.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Puerto Rico in 2025?
Costs vary by distance from your mainland origin, vehicle size, and method, but expect $1,200–$3,500 for transport alone. Add excise taxes (more below) for a full picture—total often hits $2,000–$5,000. From Florida ports, a compact car runs ~$1,500; SUVs add $300–$500. Fuel surcharges and port fees tack on $200–$400.
Breaking Down the Hidden Fees: Taxes and Extras
Puerto Rico’s excise tax (arbitrios) is the big one—6.6% for vehicles under $15,000 value, up to 13.5% for luxury models over $50,000, calculated via VIN on the SURI Hacienda portal. A 2025 Honda Civic might owe $800–$1,200; a Tesla Model 3, $3,000+. No federal duties, but add $200–$500 DTOP registration, $25–$50 inspection, and 11.5% sales tax on local add-ons. Use our detailed car shipping cost calculator insights to estimate yours—distance and type are key factors.
Budget extra for insurance ($25 per $1,000 value) and storage if delayed. Relocators: Check military discounts via SGT or Sherpa for up to $100 off.
What Documents Do You Need to Ship a Car to Puerto Rico?
No heavy bureaucracy, but prep these to avoid port holdups. Start with proof of ownership and end with tax clearance.
Step-by-Step Document Checklist
- Vehicle Title/Registration: Clean U.S. title (no liens without lender note); current registration.
- Bill of Lading: Issued by your carrier post-shipment.
- ID/Proof of Residency: Passport or driver’s license; PR residency if registering immediately.
- Excise Tax Receipt: Pay via SURI before release—use VIN for instant calc.
- EPA Form 3520-1: Confirms U.S. emissions compliance (no mods needed for most).
- DTOP Inspection Cert: Post-arrival safety/emissions check ($25–$50).
For full prep, clean your car thoroughly (USDA requires certified wash receipt) and remove personal items. Heading overseas long-term? Our international car shipping overview covers similar docs.
How Do You Choose a Reliable Car Shipping Company for Puerto Rico?
With brokers like Montway or direct carriers like Crowley, vet for FMCSA licensing, BBB ratings (A+ ideal), and PR-specific experience. Read real reviews—aim for 4.5+ on TransportReviews.com.
Top Tips for Vetting Providers
- Get 3–5 quotes: Compare via our best car shipping companies roundup.
- Confirm routes and tracking: Ask about RoRo to San Juan and whether real-time tracking is standard.
- Military benefits: SGT offers guaranteed pickups—see our SGT review.
Pros and Cons of Using a Puerto Rico Car Shipping Company
Advantages
- Expert handling: Experienced carriers understand Puerto Rico port rules, taxes, and documentation.
- Time savings: Door-to-port options reduce your need to drive long distances to East Coast ports.
- Better pricing access: Brokers tap carrier networks to secure competitive rates and routes.
- Tracking and support: Many offer status updates, online portals, and dedicated reps.
- Added protection: Insurance and claims processes are built into professional services.
Disadvantages
- Broker markups: Intermediaries may add fees on top of carrier base prices.
- Service variability: Quality and communication differ widely between companies.
- Scheduling limits: Sailings and pickups follow fixed routes and dates, reducing flexibility.
What Happens After Your Car Arrives in Puerto Rico?
Touchdown at San Juan’s port: Pay fees, clear DTOP, and drive off. Expect 1–2 days processing.
Navigating Pickup, Registration, and Road-Ready Tips
Head to Puerto Nuevo Terminal (San Juan) with docs—arrive early (7 AM) for high-volume days. Pay excise on-site if not pre-paid, then DTOP for plates ($200–$500). Inspect for dings immediately. For PR roads (hilly, potholed), consider enclosed if your ride’s low-clearance. Need to ship belongings too? Pair with PODS for household moves, but vehicles go separate.
Conclusion
Shipping a car to Puerto Rico boils down to smart planning: Pick RoRo for savings, crunch taxes on SURI, gather docs early, and choose a vetted carrier like those in our top PR specialists list. You’ll save thousands vs. buying island-side (where cars cost 20–50% more post-tax) and hit those beaches cruising your own wheels. Ready to roll? Drop a comment below with your route or questions—we’re here to help refine your plan. Share this guide if it saved you a headache!
FAQs
How long does it take to ship a car to Puerto Rico?
Typically 7–14 days from East Coast ports like Jacksonville to San Juan, including inland transport. Expedited options shave to 5–7 days but add $500+.
Do I have to pay import taxes when shipping a car to Puerto Rico?
Yes, excise taxes range 6.6–13.5% of vehicle value via SURI—e.g., $1,000 for a $15k sedan. No U.S. customs, but pay before release.
What’s the cheapest way to ship a car to Puerto Rico?
RoRo from Florida ports at $1,200–$2,000 total. Book off-peak and compare quotes for 15–20% off; avoid air freight unless urgent.
Can I ship a car from anywhere in the U.S. to Puerto Rico?
Absolutely—carriers handle nationwide pickup to ports like Jacksonville or Baltimore. West Coast adds $800–$1,500 in inland fees.
Is enclosed shipping worth it for Puerto Rico routes?
Yes for classics or EVs ($2,000–$3,500)—protects from salt air. Open RoRo suffices for daily drivers; see our open vs. enclosed breakdown.
How do I register my shipped car in Puerto Rico?
Visit DTOP with title, tax receipt, and inspection cert—$200–$500 fee. PR residency helps; process takes 1–3 days.
