Shipping a vintage car abroad brings excitement and satisfaction. Some problems are present toward achievement of this goal. One of the most common questions for collectors, restorers and enthusiasts to ask of is: “Are shipping timelines longer for vintage cars?”
They may be. However, classic or antique cars may take a bit more preparation, handling, and shipping, than regular ones do, which may delay their delivery.
This guide will help you understand why these timelines exist, how to prepare for the process, and what steps you can take to ship with ShippingCars.org on time and with success.
Step 1: Understand Why Vintage Cars Often Require Longer Shipping
Vintage cars differ from modern cars in all respects including mechanical layout and handling characteristics and those differences can impact the time taken to complete the course.
Key factors that add time:
- Additional mechanical checks to ensure the vehicle is safe to move
- Requires special loading conditions to avoid damage
- Positioned within a container or on the deck of RoRo
- Limited carriers available for high-value or delicate automobiles
For example, a 1960s classic coupe may either be soft-strapped or have to sit on the top deck of a RoRo ship, both of which take longer to prepare.
Step 2: Know That Vintage Vehicles Often Use Slower Shipping Methods
Unlike modern road cars, which can be quickly placed on standard RoRo vessels, older cars were not:
Enclosed Container Shipping
This is the most common method used for classic, antique, or collectible cars because it offers protection from:
- Weather
- Saltwater
- Dockside handling
- Other cargo
It is the most common policy for classic, antique, or collectible cars, and protects against:
- Containers must be scheduled and secured in advance
- Some ports require full container loads before dispatch
- Warehouse loading can require more time for careful securing
If you have the time, a shared container may be fine but if you need it sooner, ask for your own.
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
RoRo can be fast, but availability for vintage cars is sometimes limited because:
- Some carriers restrict older vehicles due to leak risks
- Extra inspection may be needed to confirm the vehicle is drivable
- Space may be prioritized for commercial cargo
This is why shipping times on vintage cars may take longer than their other modern counterparts.
Step 3: Account for Extra Documentation and Inspection
Exports of vintage vehicles may require other documentation, which varies by the country of destination:
- Proof of vehicle authenticity
- Ownership verification
- Appraisal documents for insurance purposes
- Export valuation forms
- Customs inspection for older mechanical systems
Older cars may also need more thorough pre-shipping inspections, which carriers use to document:
- Paint condition
- Rust
- Mechanical leaks
- Original parts
The more detailed this documentation needs to be, the longer the process typically takes.
Step 4: Prepare Your Vintage Car Properly to Avoid Delays
To ensure your vintage car arrives on time, being prepared is the best way.
1. Fix any leaks
Because oil and coolant leaks are common with vintage cars they are not carried by many carriers, because they could stain other cargo.
2. Secure loose parts
Mirrors, trim, and older chrome components may become detached in transit.
3. Check tire pressure and battery
Even if the car cannot be driven, being able to roll and steer makes work easier.
4. Remove personal items
Customs may delay the shipment if they discover unrelated items in the vehicle.
5. Clean the car
A properly cleaned car allows a thorough inspection before a vehicle leaves, reducing the chance of disputes.
If you prepare well, you can load pleasantly instead of loading under a time constraint.
Step 5: Work With a Carrier Experienced in Vintage Vehicle Transport
Most car shippers handle vintage and collector cars with care. Shipping with an experienced transporter is less risky and faster than using less experienced car shippers.
The right transport company will:
- Understand how to handle delicate vehicles
- Use vintage-friendly loading techniques
- Offer container options designed for older cars
- Coordinate inspections efficiently
- Communicate clearly about realistic timelines
ShippingCars.org is connected with vintage vehicle carriers nationwide and can help customers find the right one for their needs.
Step 6: Understand Seasonal and Port-Related Delays
When shipping vintage cars, delays are not uncommon despite perfect preparation efforts.
- Holiday port closures
- Peak export season (typically summer)
- Port congestion or staffing limitations
- Limited vintage-car-compatible spots on vessels
When transporting classic cars, the carrier cannot simply fit them into available spaces; he must wait until a safe space is available, which can cause a delay in departure.
Step 7: Request Timeline Estimates Early
Get an estimate for how long shipping will take as soon as you start the booking process.
A good estimate includes:
- Pickup window
- Warehouse preparation time
- Customs clearance estimates
- Expected vessel departure
- Transit duration
- Destination processing time
ShippingCars.org partnered carriers offer their customers a timeline estimate, so you can plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Vintage Car Shipping Timelines Can Be Longer—But They Can Also Be Predictable
Yes, shipping a vintage classic car can be slightly more complicated, but with the right amount of research on your part and the right shipping company it can be smooth, predictable and worry-free. Classic vehicles just require a bit more care than a standard car, and that’s when the specialists come in. When you work alongside a classic car transport company like ShippingCars.org, you are working with carriers toward getting your vintage car shipped right without the hassle. If you want to ship a classic, antique, or vintage car, schedule it in advance and choose the right carrier.
