Understanding Sea Freight Transit Times
One of the most common questions we’re asked is, “How long does it take to ship a car?” Judging the average sea freight transit times is sometimes difficult because ocean travel can be unpredictable. You never know what might happen on the water to delay your vehicle shipment. However, a qualified shipping company does everything possible to mitigate the risks.
It’s imperative to collect a list of estimated arrival times from your freight forwarder. A cost estimate for each shipping method is helpful, too. What you learn can help you determine how long it will take to ship your car and affect your choice to go with an open-air carrier or a Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) ship. If time is of the essence and cost is not a concern, you might choose an auto shipper that can transport your car via air freight. At Trans Global Auto Logistics, we trust in our ability to ship your vehicles quickly and without error. Here’s a breakdown of the average sea freight transit times for various carriers.
Consolidated Container Ship
If you’re working with a tight budget and wondering how long it will take to ship a car, consolidated container ships are the most cost-effective way to transport your vehicle. Your car gets loaded into a container with various other automobiles, all of which are going to the same port. While more affordable than other options, the sea freight transit time is the longest. Of course, that also depends on your location. Your car may reach its destination in three weeks, but it will likely take 30-40 days.
Single Container Shipping
Although single container shipping also involves a cargo ship, how long it takes to ship a car decreases considerably. Unfortunately, you pay dearly for the privilege. Transporting your car in a large container of its own will likely cost twice as much as a consolidated container.
However, it takes far less time for your vehicle to voyage through the shipping process, and it will be cleared through customs quickly. With this method, your vehicle should arrive in two to three weeks. It’s the optimal choice for moving classic cars.
RoRo Ships
RoRo ships are the preferred method for shipping cars. Rather than being loaded into a container, the automobile is rolled onto the ship and safely braced, then driven off once it reaches its port.
When it comes to figuring out how long it should take to ship a car, RoRo ships are faster than the average speed of a cargo ship but slower than what you’ll experience when you book a container yourself. It comes down to destination and total distance, though your auto shipper should be able to get your car to you in less than a month. It’s an excellent middle-ground option, but you should be aware that your RoRo ship probably won’t travel a direct route to your destination.
Ultimately, you have to compare the average sea freight transit time to your overall budget. If speed is more important than anything and money is no object, then air freight might be your best bet. Talk to Trans Global Auto Logistics about the pros and cons of each choice.
