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How to Ship a Second POV Vehicle from Los Angeles to Bremerhaven (2026 Guide)

Mar 20, 2026

🧭 How to Ship a Second POV Vehicle from Los Angeles to Bremerhaven

Shipping a second POV is different from shipping a primary vehicle. It requires additional documentation, stricter compliance checks, and a clear understanding of German import rules. The Port of Los Angeles and Long Beach serve as major export hubs, while Bremerhaven is one of Europe’s most efficient vehicle‑handling ports.

This guide mirrors the structured, compliance‑driven approach used in your classic‑car export article, ensuring clarity and accuracy throughout.

Step 1 — Confirm POV Eligibility

Before shipping, ensure your second vehicle meets export and import requirements.

U.S. Requirements

  • Vehicle must be legally owned by the shipper
  • No active liens (unless accompanied by lienholder authorization)
  • Vehicle must be operable for RoRo shipments

German Requirements

  • Vehicle must meet import rules
  • Taxes and duties may apply
  • Classic vehicles may qualify for reduced VAT

Step 2 — Choose the Right Shipping Method

Best for:

  • High‑value vehicles
  • Classic cars
  • Modified or low‑clearance vehicles
  • Shipments requiring added protection

Benefits:

  • Fully enclosed
  • Less handling
  • Ideal for long‑distance routes like Los Angeles → Bremerhaven

RoRo (Roll‑on/Roll‑off)

Best for:

  • Standard vehicles
  • Budget‑conscious shipments

Benefits:

  • Lower cost
  • Frequent sailings

Limitations:

  • Vehicle must be drivable
  • No personal items allowed inside
  • Less protection than container shipping

Step 3 — Vehicle Preparation Checklist

Proper preparation reduces delays and ensures compliance.

Required

  • Clean interior and exterior
  • Remove all personal items
  • Fuel level below ¼ tank
  • Disconnect alarms
  • Photograph vehicle condition (interior + exterior)
  • Check tire pressure
  • Document VIN and mileage
  • Provide spare key

Step 4 — Required Export Documentation

To ship a second POV from Los Angeles, you will need:

  • Original vehicle title
  • Registration (if available)
  • Passport copy
  • Shipper and consignee information
  • Power of Attorney (if required)
  • Bill of Sale (if recently purchased)
  • Optional: Marine insurance certificate

Documentation accuracy is critical — even small errors can delay export clearance.

Step 5 — U.S. Customs Export Clearance (Port of Los Angeles)

Your freight forwarder handles:

  • AES/EEI filing
  • Title validation
  • Customs coordination
  • Inspection scheduling (if required)

The vehicle must clear U.S. Customs before loading onto the vessel.

Step 6 — Ocean Transit from Los Angeles to Bremerhaven

Typical transit time:

28–35 days, depending on:

  • Vessel schedule
  • Routing
  • Port congestion
  • Seasonal demand

Bremerhaven is one of Europe’s largest vehicle‑handling ports, offering efficient unloading and customs processing.

Step 7 — Importing a Second POV into Germany

Unlike a primary POV under military PCS rules, a second POV is not tax‑exempt and must follow standard import procedures.

German Import Requirements

  • 19% VAT (unless exempt)
  • 10% duty (varies by vehicle type)
  • Possible TÜV inspection
  • Registration requirements (plates, insurance, emissions compliance)

Classic Vehicle Considerations

Vehicles over 30 years old may qualify for:

  • Reduced VAT
  • Historic classification
  • Simplified import rules

💰 How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Second POV Vehicle?

Costs depend on:

  • Shipping method (container vs RoRo)
  • Vehicle size and weight
  • Pickup distance in Los Angeles
  • Insurance
  • Destination handling fees
  • German import taxes

Container shipping costs more but offers significantly greater protection — especially for high‑value or classic vehicles.

🌍 Why Work with a Freight Forwarder Instead of a Broker

A licensed freight forwarder provides:

  • Export compliance
  • AES filing
  • Title validation
  • Secure loading
  • Ocean carrier booking
  • Destination coordination

Brokers typically arrange only domestic transport and do not manage international compliance.

🏆 Why Many Military & Civilian Clients Choose Direct Express Inc.

Direct Express Inc. is trusted for:

  • Transparent communication
  • Decades of export experience
  • Expertise with second POV shipments
  • German customs familiarity
  • Secure container loading
  • Door‑to‑door coordination

This mirrors the same strengths highlighted in your classic‑car export guide.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can military members ship a second POV? Yes — but it must be privately paid and is not covered under PCS entitlements.

Is container shipping safer than RoRo? Yes — especially for high‑value, classic, or modified vehicles.

Can I put personal items inside the vehicle? No — prohibited for both U.S. export and German import.

Do I need insurance? Highly recommended for all POV shipments.

How long does shipping take? Typically 28–35 days port‑to‑port.