If you’re looking to transport your camper overseas, then this is the guide for you.
Whether you’re embarking on a European adventure with your campervan, want to tackle an epic American road trip, or you’re looking to import a camper to the UK from overseas, this blog can help you understand how to get this done quickly and easily.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience, and we’ll discuss the importance of getting proper campervan insurance and European driving cover to protect your vehicle and investment during your travels.
An Overview Introduction to Shipping a Campervan Overseas
It might seem a bit daunting to organise getting your camper sent overseas, but it’s a relatively simple process once you break it down into the constituent steps.
Proper planning and understanding the process can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your campervan arrives safely at its destination so you can enjoy your adventure.
Prepare Your Campervan for Shipping
Before shipping your campervan, thoroughly clean both the interior and exterior. This not only makes the vehicle inspection easier but also helps prevent the spread of contaminants across borders.
Inspect your campervan for any existing damage and take detailed photographs. Documenting the condition of your vehicle can be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim for any damages incurred during shipping.
Remove all personal items from your campervan, as shipping companies typically don’t cover personal belongings inside the vehicle, and loose items can cause damage during transit. Secure or remove any detachable equipment to prevent movement and damage, including mirrors, antennae, etc.
Check all fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid, to ensure they are within recommended levels. Ensure the battery is fully charged and properly secured. You may need to disconnect the battery if required by the shipping company.
Choose a Shipping Method
There are several methods to ship a campervan overseas, each with its own advantages and considerations.
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo)
RoRo shipping is one of the most common and cost-effective methods for transporting vehicles overseas, especially if you’re looking to head from the UK to mainland Europe.
Your campervan is driven onto a specialized vessel and secured for the journey, meaning that this is a relatively quick and straightforward process if you’ve got a standard-sized campervan.
A particularly high camper, or a very long one, may struggle to either fit onto the ferry or into the allocated spaces inside.
Container Shipping
If you’re sending your camper further afield, then you may want to take a look at getting your vehicle secured inside a shipping container and then loaded onto a cargo ship.
This is something that our colleagues over at Just Kampers have done countless times, both when sending their own campervans across to the USA for massive road trips, or when buying campers from the States and having them sent back to the UK.
It’s not especially quick, but this method is ideal for long distances, and provides additional protection from the elements and potential damage. Container shipping is ideal for high-value or custom campervans and allows you to ship additional personal belongings alongside the vehicle.
Flat Rack Shipping
Flat rack shipping involves securing your campervan onto a ‘flat rack’, which is a bit like a shipping container but without a roof and two of the walls.
This flat rack can then be loaded onto a lorry for overland travel, or onto a ship.
If you’ve got an oversized campervan which doesn’t fit into a standard shipping container or RoRo vessel, then this could be the option for you.
Dealing with Customs and Regulations
Each country has specific regulations and requirements for importing or exporting vehicles, which you’ll need to navigate through.
Research the rules regarding emissions standards, vehicle modifications, and import/export taxes for the relevant country. Understanding these requirements can help you avoid delays and additional costs!
Gather Necessary Documentation
Prepare all necessary documentation for shipping and customs clearance. This typically includes:
- Vehicle title and registration,
- Proof of ownership,
- Bill of sale or purchase invoice,
- Shipping and insurance documents,
- Passport and visa (if applicable).
Ensure all documents are accurate and complete to facilitate a smooth customs process, and avoid stressful delays.
Work with a Customs Broker
Consider hiring a customs broker to navigate the complex customs regulations and paperwork. A customs broker can help ensure that all documentation is in order and assist with clearing your campervan through customs efficiently.
Secure Campervan Insurance and European Driving Cover
Securing comprehensive campervan insurance is crucial when shipping your vehicle overseas. This coverage protects against potential damage or loss during transit. Ensure your insurance policy covers international shipping and provides adequate protection for the duration of the journey.
European Driving Cover
If you plan to drive your campervan in Europe, obtaining European driving cover is essential. This coverage extends your insurance protection to include driving in European countries, ensuring you are covered for accidents, theft, and other risks. Verify that your policy includes the countries you intend to visit and meets the minimum insurance requirements for each.
Monitor and Track Your Shipment
Once your campervan is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Most shipping companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor the location and status of your vehicle. Keep in touch with the shipping company and address any issues or concerns promptly.
In Conclusion
Shipping a campervan overseas requires careful planning, but following these steps can help to make sure things go smoothly.
For more information on campervan insurance and European driving cover, visit Just Kampers Insurance.
So, give us a call on 01256 674522 and let one of our specialist team discuss your requirements. Or Get an online quote today or arrange a call back and let us call you at a convenient time.
