Shipping a car to Puerto Rico typically costs $1,200–$3,500 for transport, plus 6.6%–13.5% excise tax on your vehicle’s value. The biggest benefit? You’ll save $2,000–$5,000 compared to buying a car on the island, where dealerships pass import taxes directly to consumers. You also get immediate transportation and keep a vehicle you already know and trust. The drawbacks include navigating Puerto Rico’s bureaucratic paperwork through Hacienda and DTOP offices, potential rust damage from salt air exposure, and 1–3 weeks without your car during transit. This guide breaks down everything—real costs, genuine benefits, and honest drawbacks—so you can decide if shipping makes sense for your move.
What Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Puerto Rico in 2026?
The cost of shipping a car to Puerto Rico ranges from $1,200 to $3,500, depending on your mainland location, vehicle size, and shipping method. Direct carriers like TOTE Maritime currently charge $1,170–$1,270 from Jacksonville to San Juan for standard vehicles.
Here’s what affects your final price:
- Distance from departure port: Shipping from Miami or Jacksonville costs less than shipping from Seattle or Los Angeles. West Coast shipments add $800–$1,500 in inland transport fees.
- Vehicle size and weight: Compact sedans fall into standard pricing, while SUVs and trucks cost $200–$500 more due to additional weight and space requirements.
- Shipping method: RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping is the most affordable option at $1,200–$2,000, while container shipping offers better protection for $2,000–$3,500.
Important 2026 update: TOTE Maritime no longer accepts electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) for shipment due to fire safety regulations effective August 2025. EV owners must use alternative carriers offering specialized transport.
What Are the Benefits of Shipping Your Car to Puerto Rico?
Shipping your vehicle offers several compelling advantages over buying locally:
- Significant cost savings: New cars in Puerto Rico cost $2,000–$5,000 more than mainland prices because dealerships pass import taxes to consumers. According to discussions on Expat.com’s Puerto Rico forum, many relocators confirm that shipping a 2–3 year old vehicle saves thousands compared to buying on-island.
- Familiarity and reliability: You know your car’s maintenance history, quirks, and condition. Buying used in Puerto Rico means inheriting a vehicle that’s endured salt air exposure and rough roads—often with incomplete service records.
- Immediate transportation: Puerto Rico’s public transit is limited outside San Juan. Having your own vehicle from day one eliminates rental car costs and gives you independence to explore the island immediately.
- Better financing options: If you need to finance a vehicle purchase, mainland U.S. banks offer significantly lower interest rates than Puerto Rican lenders. Members of credit unions like Navy Federal or PenFed can maintain their favorable rates.
What Are the Drawbacks of Shipping a Car to Puerto Rico?
Shipping isn’t without challenges. Consider these drawbacks before deciding:
- Excise taxes add up quickly: Puerto Rico’s Hacienda charges 6.6%–13.5% import tax based on your vehicle’s value. A car valued at $20,000 could trigger $1,320–$2,700 in taxes alone—calculated through the SURI Hacienda portal using your VIN.
- Paperwork and bureaucracy: You’ll need to visit multiple government offices including DTOP (Department of Transportation) and Hacienda. Many expats report the process taking several days, with long wait times at each location. The entire process must be completed before you can legally drive your vehicle.
- Salt air and road conditions: Puerto Rico’s humid, salty climate accelerates rust, especially on vehicles from northern states with road salt residue. The island’s roads are notoriously rough with potholes that can damage low-clearance vehicles. If you have leather seats, they’ll absorb intense heat in Puerto Rico’s sun.
- Transit delays: While typical shipping takes 1–3 weeks, unexpected delays from weather, port congestion, or documentation issues can extend this timeline. You’ll need backup transportation plans upon arrival.
How Does the Shipping Process Work?
Understanding the step-by-step process helps you prepare effectively:
- Vehicle preparation: Your car must have less than 1/4 tank of fuel (Coast Guard regulation). Remove all personal belongings, disable alarms, and ensure the vehicle is mechanically sound. Puerto Rico enforces strict agricultural inspections, so thorough cleaning—inside and out—is mandatory.
- Documentation requirements: Gather your vehicle title (clean, with no liens unless you have lender authorization), current registration, valid ID, and EPA Form 3520-1 confirming emissions compliance. You’ll receive a Bill of Lading from your carrier after drop-off.
- Port options: Most mainland shipments depart from Jacksonville, Florida or Philadelphia. You can save money with port-to-port service by driving to Jacksonville yourself, or pay extra for door-to-port pickup from anywhere in the continental U.S.
- Arrival and pickup: Vehicles arrive at San Juan’s port. Before release, you must pay excise taxes through Hacienda, then register with DTOP for Puerto Rico plates. Budget $200–$500 for registration fees plus inspection costs.
Should You Ship or Buy a Car in Puerto Rico?
The decision depends on your specific situation:
- Ship your car if: Your vehicle is 2–5 years old with good resale value, you’re relocating long-term, you want to avoid high island prices, or you need reliable transportation immediately upon arrival.
- Buy locally if: Your car is older with high mileage (shipping costs may exceed its value), you’re only staying temporarily, your vehicle has leather interiors unsuitable for tropical heat, or you’re purchasing an EV that can’t be shipped via major carriers.
If you’re planning to ship a vehicle and want a step-by-step breakdown of costs, process, and requirements, our detailed Puerto Rico car shipping guide will help you out.
For those exploring the best car shipping companies, compare at least 3–5 quotes and verify FMCSA licensing and BBB ratings before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to ship a car to Puerto Rico?
Typically 7–14 days from East Coast ports like Jacksonville. West Coast shipments take 2–4 weeks including inland transport to the departure port.
Can I ship personal belongings inside my car?
Most carriers prohibit personal items during ocean transport due to customs regulations and liability concerns. Some specialized services allow limited belongings—check with your carrier directly.
Do I need Puerto Rico car insurance?
Yes. You must obtain local insurance meeting Puerto Rico’s requirements before driving. Your mainland policy won’t provide adequate coverage on the island.
Is it cheaper to buy a used car in Puerto Rico?
Generally no. Used car prices reflect the import taxes already paid, making them comparably expensive. Sites like Clasificados Online list local options, but prices remain higher than mainland equivalents.
What happens if my car is damaged during shipping?
Reputable carriers include basic insurance coverage. Document your vehicle’s condition with photos before shipping and inspect thoroughly upon arrival. File claims immediately if damage occurs.
Are there military discounts for Puerto Rico car shipping?
Yes. Companies like SGT Auto Transport and Sherpa offer military shipping discounts of $50–$100 for active duty and veterans.
