Transport

Want to ship your car without worries? SCL Rotterdam makes it possible. We take care of the entire transport process from A to Z. Whether you need car transport by land, sea or air, we connect you with the most reliable carriers and provide support with passion and dedication. Discover the possibilities. Thanks to our one-stop-shop service, we not only arrange the transport itself but also everything around it, from purchase assistance to home delivery.

Importing a car involves many steps: from choosing the right transport method (such as RoRo, container shipping or road transport) to handling customs formalities and registration with authorities like the RDW. We ensure everything is handled correctly – from the initial planning to final delivery at your doorstep. We specialise in importing vehicles from outside Europe, especially from the US, Canada, Japan and the United Arab Emirates.

Popular routes we work with daily:

• United States → Netherlands: approx. 14–21 days. The US ↔ Europe route is one of the most popular among our customers, with weekly departures.
• Dubai → Netherlands: approx. 5 weeks transit time, depending on shipping line, transit time and any stopovers.
• Canada → Netherlands: depends on port and shipping line. We always tailor this to your exact loading location and preferred arrival date.

Whether you are importing a classic from the US or a sports car from Dubai, we make it happen. Our clients are often expats, international entrepreneurs, returnees and car enthusiasts with a specific dream car in mind. For these groups, a reliable partner with expertise in import regulations and inspection processes is essential.

Also take a look at our page on transport insurance: 90% of our customers opt for this, and for good reason. A standard car insurance policy does not cover damage during intercontinental transport. With separate transport insurance, you avoid unpleasant surprises such as General Average.

Request a free quotation.

Our Services

Curious about the best option for shipping your car? At SCL Rotterdam, we are happy to advise you based on twenty years of experience. Feel free to contact us for non-binding advice. Together, we will determine your needs and create a tailored package. We always provide a transparent quotation, with a clear cost breakdown per transport option: RoRo, container or air.

• We assist you with, among other things:
• Choosing between RoRo, container or air transport. RoRo is usually calculated per m² or m³; containers per (part of a) container. We explain this clearly based on your vehicle.
• Preparing transport documentation and customs declarations. We provide proactive advice on import duties, VAT and other costs so that you won’t face unexpected surprises.
• Full technical inspection and registration in the Netherlands, including support with RDW, and if required, German TÜV inspections.
  Guidance on import duties, VAT and potential pitfalls. A common mistake is assuming that vehicles from European brands are exempt from import duties. We ensure correct preparation.
• Insurance against damage or loss during transport.

Car transport by air

Need your car transported as quickly as possible? Air freight is also an option. By plane, we can get the car to its destination swiftly. Contact us and we will explore the possibilities to meet your specific needs. You can reach us at +31 (0)10 427 77 20 or sales@sclrotterdam.com. Air transport is most often chosen for exclusive vehicles or urgent deliveries, for example for auctions or business events.
Air transport is particularly suitable for exclusive vehicles, or when speed is crucial. We are happy to advise whether this suits your situation.

Costs for car shipping or other transport

The cost of transporting your car depends on many factors. In addition to the type of transport, the destination and the condition of the car also play a role. You must also consider additional costs such as import duties and taxes. At SCL Rotterdam, we provide a clear breakdown of all costs for shipping your car. Seasonal influences such as Chinese New Year or Western holidays can lead to longer lead times or higher rates. Geopolitical factors, such as disruptions in shipping routes or fluctuating oil prices, also impact transport costs.
Did you know that RoRo rates are often calculated per m² or m³, while container prices are charged per full container? We always give you a transparent overview, including additional costs such as insurance, customs and delivery charges.

Would you like to have your car transported or do you have questions about the import process?

• Call us directly on +31 (0)10 427 77 20
• Email us at sales@sclrotterdam.com
• Or simply request a free quotation.

Why choose SCL Rotterdam?

• Specialist in non-European imports: Nearly 20 years of experience with car imports from Dubai, the US, Canada and Japan.

• One-stop-shop service: From purchase assistance to home delivery, including transport, inspection and registration.

• Complete inspection and registration: We ensure that your car meets all European/Dutch requirements and handle everything with the inspection authorities, such as the RDW and the German TÜV.

• A team of true car enthusiasts: Our passion for cars translates into personal service and attention to detail.

• Hassle-free import process from A to Z: We take care of everything – fast, safe and transparent. We also help you avoid common mistakes in private imports, such as underestimating import costs or skipping important inspection steps.