Shipping a car to Puerto Rico requires more than just land transport—it involves a combination of logistics, maritime shipping, and customs clearance. Whether you’re relocating, selling a vehicle, or stationed in Puerto Rico, partnering with a specialized provider like Nova Transportation can make the process seamless and stress-free.
At Nova Transportation, we offer the fastest and easiest way to ship a car to Puerto Rico, combining decades of expertise with a streamlined process and real-time communication. From documentation to delivery, we handle every step so you don’t have to.
Understanding Puerto Rico Car Shipping
What Is Puerto Rico Car Shipping?
Puerto Rico car shipping is a unique process that combines overland transport from your current location to a U.S. port (typically in Florida), followed by ocean freight to the Port of San Juan. It requires knowledge of both domestic shipping procedures and international-style customs handling, despite Puerto Rico being a U.S. territory.
Port-to-Port vs. Door-to-Door Shipping
- Port-to-Port Shipping: You drop off the vehicle at a mainland departure port, and retrieve it from the San Juan Port. This is the most cost-effective option.
- Door-to-Door Shipping: Nova Transportation handles pickup at your address and coordinates delivery at your destination in Puerto Rico for maximum convenience.
Choosing the right option depends on your budget, time constraints, and location flexibility.
Shipping Methods and Options
1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping
- Most affordable method
- Your vehicle is driven onto a ship and secured for ocean transit
- Exposes the vehicle to weather, but is generally safe and insured
2. Enclosed Container Shipping
- Ideal for luxury, exotic, or high-value vehicles
- The vehicle is shipped inside a sealed container for full protection
- Slightly higher cost but offers maximum security
3. Air Freight
- Fastest and most secure shipping method
- Typically used for urgent or high-value vehicle transport
- Significantly more expensive and less commonly used
Documentation and Customs Clearance
To ensure a smooth shipping process, Nova Transportation will help you gather and submit the necessary paperwork.
Required Documents:
- Original and copy of vehicle title and registration
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- Customs declaration forms
- Bank authorization letter (if vehicle is financed)
- Power of Attorney (if someone else is receiving the vehicle)
Even though Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, the shipment is treated like an international import. Customs clearance is required upon arrival and must be handled accurately to avoid delays or penalties.
Nova Transportation’s experience with Puerto Rico shipments ensures all regulatory steps are completed efficiently.
Vehicle Preparation for Shipping to Puerto Rico
Mandatory Requirements:
- Vehicle must be clean inside and out (customs will inspect it thoroughly)
- Fuel tank no more than 1/4 full
- Vehicle must be in running condition (non-operable vehicles incur added fees)
- No cracked windshields or major exterior damage
- All alarms must be disabled
- Tires should be properly inflated
We also recommend taking detailed photographs of your vehicle before shipping to document its condition.
Transit Times and Scheduling
Shipping times may vary based on the origin of the vehicle and the method selected.
Estimated Timeline:
| Phase | Duration |
| Pickup from your location | 1–5 days |
| Port processing and loading | 2–3 days |
| Ocean transit to San Juan | 6–8 days |
| Customs clearance and inspection | 2–3 days |
| Final delivery in Puerto Rico | 1–2 days |
Nova Transportation keeps you updated at every stage via real-time tracking and status notifications.
Cost Considerations for Shipping to Puerto Rico
What Affects the Price?
- Distance from pickup location to departure port (typically in Florida)
- Shipping method (RoRo is cheapest; air freight is premium)
- Vehicle size and weight
- Insurance level
- Seasonal demand and fuel costs
Typical Price Range
Shipping a standard car from the East Coast (e.g., New York, Miami, Atlanta) to Puerto Rico typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on specifics.
Tips for Saving on Shipping:
- Choose Port-to-Port if you can deliver/pick up yourself
- Book early to secure preferred schedules
- Be flexible with shipping dates to access better rates
Taxes, Fees, and Registration in Puerto Rico
Excise Tax
Puerto Rico applies an excise tax to imported vehicles based on:
- Model year
- Make and model
- Vehicle value and weight
Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are often exempt or discounted.
Vehicle Registration Requirements
Once your car arrives, you must:
- Register within 3 days at the DTOP (Puerto Rico’s DMV)
- Present valid ID, excise tax receipt, Bill of Lading, and vehicle title
- Pay local registration fees
Nova Transportation provides guidance on all post-arrival steps to help ensure full compliance.
Insurance and Liability
All shipments handled by Nova Transportation include basic insurance coverage, typically up to $250,000, to protect against transit-related damages.
Additional Coverage Options
- Supplemental insurance available for classic, rare, or high-value vehicles
- Marine insurance can be added to cover loss during ocean transit
We recommend discussing your insurance options before booking, and our team can walk you through the best choice for your vehicle.
Why Choose Nova Transportation for Puerto Rico Car Shipping?
Nova Transportation is a trusted expert in shipping vehicles to Puerto Rico. We handle every detail—so you don’t have to.
Our Advantages:
- Decades of experience handling Puerto Rico vehicle shipments
- End-to-end service: door-to-door or port-to-port
- Full compliance with customs and maritime regulations
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Personalized customer service and expert guidance
- High customer satisfaction with hundreds of successful Puerto Rico shipments
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to ship a car to Puerto Rico?
You’ll need the title, registration, valid ID, customs forms, and possibly a bank authorization letter.
How long does shipping take to Puerto Rico?
Typically 10–15 days from pickup to delivery, depending on location and method.
Can I ship a non-running vehicle?
Yes, but it requires special equipment and incurs extra charges.
What taxes and fees will I pay?
Expect to pay an excise tax upon arrival. The amount depends on vehicle type and value.
How do I track my shipment?
Nova Transportation provides real-time tracking via phone, email, or customer portal.
What if my vehicle is damaged during shipping?
All shipments are insured. You’ll complete a vehicle inspection before and after shipping. If damage occurs, our claims team will assist immediately.
Conclusion
Shipping a car to Puerto Rico doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Nova Transportation, you get reliable service, expert handling, and peace of mind from start to finish.
Whether you’re a military member, relocating for work, or managing an online vehicle purchase, our team will guide you every step of the way.
Get your free quote today and experience the fastest and easiest way to ship a car to Puerto Rico with Nova Transportation.