🌍 Introduction: Preparation Is Everything in 2026
Shipping a classic car overseas in 2026 requires more than simply booking transport. With rising vehicle values, stricter customs rules, and increased global demand for American classics, proper preparation is essential to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, compliantly, and without delays.
This step‑by‑step guide walks you through exactly how to prepare a classic car for international shipping in 2026, whether you’re exporting a muscle car, vintage truck, European collectible, or rare investment‑grade vehicle.
🧠 Why Proper Preparation Matters for Classic Cars
Classic cars require special attention because they often have:
- Fragile chrome, trim, and glass
- Low ground clearance
- Older mechanical systems
- Rare or irreplaceable parts
- High market value
- Unique customs requirements
Proper preparation protects your investment and ensures a smooth export process.
🧼 Step 1: Thoroughly Clean the Vehicle (Inside, Outside & Undercarriage)
Many countries — especially Australia, New Zealand, and Japan — require spotless vehicles for biosecurity inspections.
Clean:
- Exterior
- Interior
- Engine bay
- Wheel wells
- Undercarriage
Why This Matters
Dirt, leaves, and debris can cause:
- Inspection delays
- Cleaning fees
- Rejection at destination
📸 Step 2: Document the Vehicle’s Condition
Before handing over your classic car, take detailed photos.
Photograph:
- All four sides
- Interior
- Dashboard
- Engine bay
- Undercarriage
- Any existing damage
Why This Matters
This protects you in the rare event of a dispute and helps with insurance claims.
🔧 Step 3: Mechanical Preparation
Classic cars often require extra mechanical attention before shipping.
Checklist
- Fuel at ¼ tank or less
- Battery charged and secured
- No fluid leaks
- Tires properly inflated
- Parking brake functional
- Alarm systems disabled
For Non‑Running Vehicles
Inform your shipping company — special equipment and handling will be required.
📦 Step 4: Remove All Personal Items
Most countries prohibit personal belongings inside the vehicle unless shipped in a container.
Remove:
- Tools
- Electronics
- Loose parts
- Documents
- Personal items
Why This Matters
Customs can delay or reject vehicles with unauthorized items.
🪛 Step 5: Secure Loose Parts & Accessories
Classic cars often have delicate or removable components.
Secure or Remove:
- Spoilers
- Mirrors
- Hubcaps
- Trim pieces
- Emblems
- Soft‑top components
Crate Loose Parts
Wheels, engines, transmissions, or rare components should be crated for protection.
🚢 Step 6: Prepare for RoRo vs Container Shipping
RoRo Requirements
- Vehicle must run and steer
- No personal items allowed
- Keys must be provided
- Alarm must be disabled
Container Requirements
- Vehicle can be running or non‑running
- Personal items may be allowed (destination‑dependent)
- Vehicle is blocked and braced for protection
Why Classic Cars Often Use Containers
- Maximum security
- Protection from weather
- Better insurance coverage
- Ability to ship parts or household goods together
📄 Step 7: Gather Required Documentation (2026 Requirements)
You’ll Need:
- Original vehicle title
- Registration (if applicable)
- Bill of sale (for recent purchases)
- Passport or government ID
- Power of attorney (for export filing)
- AES export filing (U.S. requirement)
2026 Update
Many countries now require digital pre‑clearance, meaning documents must be submitted before the vessel departs.
🛡️ Step 8: Arrange Marine Insurance
Classic cars require higher coverage due to their value.
Typical Cost
- 1.5%–2.5% of declared value
Coverage Includes:
- Ocean transit
- Loading/unloading
- Port handling
This protects your investment from unexpected events.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
- Shipping with too much fuel
- Leaving personal items inside
- Not documenting condition
- Failing to clean the undercarriage
- Missing or incomplete paperwork
- Not preparing for biosecurity inspections
- Choosing the wrong shipping method
Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and stress.
🚚 How Direct Express Inc. Prepares Your Classic Car for Safe International Shipping
Direct Express Inc. provides:
- Enclosed pickup nationwide
- Professional container loading & bracing
- RoRo and container shipping options
- Auction pickup (Mecum, Barrett‑Jackson, Bring a Trailer)
- Custom crating for rare parts
- Customs documentation support
- Marine insurance guidance
- Real‑time tracking
We handle every detail to ensure your classic car arrives safely and compliantly.
🏁 Conclusion: Proper Preparation Ensures a Smooth 2026 Shipment
Preparing a classic car for international shipping in 2026 requires careful cleaning, documentation, mechanical checks, and proper handling. With the right preparation — and the right logistics partner — your vehicle will arrive safely, on time, and fully protected.
Direct Express Inc. is here to guide you through every step of the process.