Shipping or Road Transport

Choosing the right transportation method matters — not every vehicle is the same, and neither is transport. At SCL Rotterdam, we help you pick the best option: container shipping, RoRo, air freight, or road transport within Europe.

Container Shipping: the safest option for classics

For classic cars, we almost always recommend container transport. It offers maximum control, protection, and security. At SCL, you can choose from three different packages:

Economy Class – Ideal for standard classics. Your car shares a container with other SCL customer vehicles.
Business Class – Optimal for lowered or delicate vehicles. Your classic sits on the container floor, not stacked.
Special Class – Dedicated container for unique or rare vehicles. Customized care and maximum protection.

Find more details on our container shipping page.

Why not RoRo for your classic?

Roll-on/Roll-off may seem cost-effective, but it's rarely suitable for classics. Here's why:

You have limited control over handling at terminals.
Higher risk of damage during loading and unloading.
The car must be fully operational — dead batteries or mechanical issues may lead to extra costs or damage.

Classic car enthusiasts prioritize safety and control — that’s why container transport is safer!

Road Transport within Europe

Bringing a classic across Europe? Road transport is the best choice:

Open transport: Budget-friendly and often readily available.
Enclosed transport: Fully protected — ideal for fragile vehicles or harsh weather.

We’ll help you choose the best option for your car and budget.

Classics from the USA or Canada

Importing from the U.S. or Canada? We manage the entire route:

Collection and transport to port
Professional loading into container
Sea freight to the Netherlands
Customs clearance and import duties
Unloading, inspection, and registration

View the full process on our classic car import page.

Is my classic insured during transport?

Not by default. We strongly recommend comprehensive coverage. Through SCL, you can choose:

All-Risk insurance
Total-loss (Averij Grosse) insurance

This ensures your classic is well-protected throughout the journey.

What happens upon arrival in the Netherlands?

We take care of everything:

Customs declaration and assistance with VAT/import duties
Professional unloading of your vehicle
Optional: RDW registration and license plate application

Want to learn more about getting a Dutch license plate? Check out our page on registering classics in the Netherlands.

We can deliver your car wherever you prefer — even to your home.

Why SCL Rotterdam?

Benefit from nearly 20 years of experience in classic car transport. We offer:

Personalized advice and tailored solutions, especially during the purchase phase
A global network of trusted partners
Comprehensive service — from purchase to registration
Competitive pricing thanks to economies of scale

Classic car transport should be safe, professional, and transparent — and that’s exactly what we deliver.