Quick Answer: Shipping a vehicle from the USA to Chile in its own 20 ft container with AB Group Shipping it costs from $2,220 (September 2026 quote), port to port to San Antonio from Miami via Port Everglades (24 days) or New Jersey via Philadelphia (14 days). RoRo runs approx. $1,350 from Miami. Prices exclude Chilean import taxes and destination charges.
- Cost: from $2,220 USD in a 20 ft container from Miami or New Jersey (September 2026 rates); RoRo approx. $1,350 from Miami
- Main ports: Valparaíso, San Antonio, and Antofagasta
- Homologation mandatory for all imported vehicles
- Age restrictions: maximum 8 years for private vehicles
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Go to the calculator →Reference prices: shipping a vehicle from the USA to Chile
| Departure port | Price | Transit |
|---|---|---|
| MiamiPort Everglades | $2,220 | 24 days |
| Houston | $2,537 | 32 days |
| New JerseyPhiladelphia | $2,220 | 14 days |
| Los Angeles | $2,720 | 29 days |
Port to port to San Antonio, in USD, quoted with our system on September 28, 2026. Includes freight and US export charges; excludes import taxes and destination charges. Each vehicle travels alone in a 20 ft container; two can share a 40 ft one. The calculator on this page gives your exact price, with pickup and delivery. What our customers are quoted for a sedan, often with pickup and delivery: typically $3,098, half of them between $2,537 and $3,627 depending on the origin city.
Shipping from another state? Which port to read
Each port in the table is the one that cargo from these states usually leaves through. Miami: Florida. Houston: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. New Jersey: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, District of Columbia and West Virginia. Los Angeles: California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah and Hawaii. Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky and Alabama ship through Savannah; Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota ship through Chicago (rail); Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska ship through Seattle / Tacoma: those ports are not in the table yet. We pick up in every state, and the calculator finds the best port from your city.
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Vehicle to Chile?
Shipping a vehicle to Chile in its own 20 ft container costs $2,220 USD from Miami or New Jersey and $2,720 from Los Angeles (September 2026 rates). RoRo from Miami runs approx. $1,350.
The total cost of vehicle shipping includes multiple components beyond basic ocean freight. Prices vary significantly based on selected route, shipping method, and additional services required.
MiamiUSMIA
ValparaísoCLVAP
Long BeachUSLGB
San AntonioCLSAI
Cost Breakdown by Shipping Method
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
- Ocean freight: approx. $1,350 USD from Miami
- Documentation: $200-$300 USD
- Marine insurance: $150-$250 USD
- Handling charges: $100-$150 USD
- Total estimate: approx. $1,800-$2,050 USD
Container (20' or 40')
- Container freight 20': $2,220 USD from Miami or New Jersey (September 2026 rates)
- Loading/unloading: $300-$400 USD
- Documentation: $200-$300 USD
- Marine insurance: $200-$350 USD
- Total estimate: $2,920-$3,270 USD
Professional Tip
RoRo is more economical for standard vehicles, but container shipping allows you to send additional personal belongings up to container weight limits, which can justify the extra cost for international relocations.
Chilean Ports for Vehicle Imports
Main Chilean ports for vehicle imports are Valparaíso (central), San Antonio (Santiago), and Antofagasta (north). Valparaíso offers more shipping connections, while San Antonio provides better land access to Santiago.
Selecting the destination port in Chile directly impacts total costs, release times, and subsequent land logistics. Each port presents specific operational characteristics that should be considered based on the vehicle's final location.Valparaíso Port (CLVAP)
- Highest frequency of shipping services
- Specialized RoRo facilities
- Distance to Santiago: 75 miles
- Release time: 7-12 business days
- Ideal for: central Chile region
San Antonio Port (CLSAI)
- Chile's most modern port
- Best land connectivity to Santiago
- Distance to Santiago: 68 miles
- Release time: 5-8 business days
- Ideal for: metropolitan region
Alternative Ports for Specific Regions
Chile concentrates 85% of vehicle imports at Valparaíso, San Antonio, and Antofagasta, with regular services from the United States.
- Antofagasta Port (CLANF): Ideal for northern Chile, reduced distance to mining regions, limited services from the US
- Iquique Port (CLIQQ): Alternative for Tarapacá region, lower service frequency, reduced land transport costs for northern destinations
- Arica Port (CLARI): Border with Peru and Bolivia, sporadic services, ideal for tri-border trade
Shipping Methods: RoRo vs Container
RoRo is more economical (approx. $1,350 from Miami) and faster for standard vehicles, while container ($2,220 from Miami or New Jersey, September 2026 rates) offers greater protection and allows shipping additional belongings with the vehicle.
The decision between RoRo and container depends on multiple factors including budget, vehicle type, desired protection level, and need to ship additional belongings. Each method presents specific operational advantages.RoRo Shipping (Roll-on/Roll-off)
- Vehicle rolls directly onto the ship
- Faster loading process
- Cost savings of 20-30%
- Available from Miami, Houston, New Orleans
- Frequency: weekly services
- Limitations: operational vehicles only
Container Shipping
- Complete weather protection
- Space for personal belongings
- Accepts non-operational vehicles
- Available from all US ports
- 20' container: 1 vehicle + luggage
- 40' container: multiple small vehicles
Important Restriction
RoRo shipping requires the vehicle to be operational and able to start under its own power. Vehicles with mechanical problems must ship via container, which can increase total cost by approx. $870 USD from Miami.
Capacity and Limitations by Method
- Evaluate vehicle operational status: RoRo requires the vehicle to start and move independently
- Consider additional belongings: container allows up to 4,400 lbs additional without extra cost
- Verify dimensions: modified or extra-tall vehicles may require specialized container
- Calculate total cost including additional protection and container convenience
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Calculate your shipment →Ocean Transit Time by Shipping Route
Ocean transit from the US to Chile takes 14-32 days depending on route. Miami-Valparaíso: 24 days, Long Beach-San Antonio: 14-18 days, Houston-Antofagasta: 32 days via Panama Canal.
Ocean transit times vary significantly based on selected route, number of intermediate stops, and seasonal weather conditions. West Coast routes are generally faster due to shorter distance and fewer stops.The Long Beach-San Antonio route offers the shortest transit times to Chile, with weekly direct services year-round.
Main Routes and Transit Times
- Miami → Valparaíso: 24 days (RoRo/Container, via Panama Canal)
- Long Beach → San Antonio: 14-18 days (Container, direct Pacific route)
- Houston → Antofagasta: 32 days (Container, via Panama Canal)
- New Orleans → Valparaíso: 19-23 days (RoRo, monthly services)
- Los Angeles → San Antonio: 29 days (Container, high frequency)
Factors Affecting Transit Times
Operational conditions can extend estimated times by 3-7 additional days during certain periods:- Port congestion: especially at Long Beach/Los Angeles during peak season
- Weather conditions: Pacific storms can delay services 2-4 days
- Technical stops: some services include stops at Manzanillo or Buenaventura
- Panama Canal restrictions: affect routes from East Coast and Gulf
Strategic Planning
For urgent shipments, consider West Coast routes that avoid the Panama Canal and offer more frequent services. The 4-6 day difference can justify additional land transport cost to the port.
Vehicle Homologation Requirements in Chile
All vehicles imported to Chile require mandatory homologation with the Ministry of Transportation. The process includes technical inspection, emissions certification, and compliance with Chilean safety standards.
Vehicle homologation is a mandatory process that verifies compliance with Chilean technical and safety standards. This requirement applies without exception to all imported used vehicles, regardless of origin country or value.Homologation Process Step by Step
- Submit vehicle technical documentation to authorized center
- Complete full physical inspection of imported vehicle
- Verify compliance with Euro 4 minimum emissions standards
- Obtain homologation certificate valid for registration
- Register certificate with Civil Registry for final registration
Required Documents
- Manufacturer's certificate of origin
- Vehicle technical specifications
- Original emissions certificate
- Apostilled title of ownership
- Import invoice with CIF value
Homologation Costs
- Technical inspection: $400-$600 USD
- Emissions certification: $200-$300 USD
- Document processing: $150-$250 USD
- Professional management: $200-$400 USD
- Total estimate: $950-$1,550 USD
Critical Timeline
The temporary circulation certificate issued at customs clearance is valid for 90 days. If homologation is not completed within this period, the vehicle cannot be permanently registered in Chile.
Age Restrictions for Imported Vehicles
Chile allows importing private vehicles maximum 8 years old. Commercial vehicles have a 6-year limit. Age is calculated from manufacturing year to import year.
Vehicle age restrictions in Chile are strict and apply without exception. These regulations aim to maintain a modern vehicle fleet and reduce air pollution in the country.Age Limits by Vehicle Category
- Private vehicles: maximum 8 years from manufacturing year
- Commercial vehicles: maximum 6 years from manufacturing year
- Motorcycles: maximum 10 years from manufacturing year
- Emergency vehicles: maximum 5 years from manufacturing year
- Agricultural machinery: maximum 15 years from manufacturing year
Chile maintains one of Latin America's strictest age restrictions for private vehicles, calculated from manufacturing year, not model year.
Vehicle Age Calculation
Vehicle age is based on the manufacturing year shown in the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), not the commercial model year. This distinction is crucial for vehicles manufactured late in the year.VIN Verification
A 2018 model vehicle manufactured in December 2017 counts as year 2017 for age restriction purposes. Verify the manufacturing year in the VIN before proceeding with import.
Special Exceptions
- Electric vehicles: age restriction exemption until 2027
- Hybrid vehicles: extended 10-year limit for certified models
- Classic vehicles: over 30 years old, special import regime
- Diplomatic: full exemption for accredited diplomatic personnel
Documentation Required for Vehicle Imports
Vehicle import to Chile requires original title, purchase invoice, certificate of origin, marine insurance policy, and customs forms. All documents must be apostilled or legalized.
Complete and correct documentation is fundamental to avoid costly delays in the import process. Incomplete or incorrect documents can result in vehicle detention and additional fines.Required Vehicle Documents
- Original title of ownership: must be apostilled and free of liens
- Purchase invoice or Bill of Sale: showing actual transaction value
- Manufacturer's certificate of origin: official VIN document
- Emissions certificate: valid and recent (maximum 6 months old)
- Maintenance records: service history recommended
Transportation and Insurance Documentation
Ocean Documents
- Original Bill of Lading (B/L)
- Detailed packing list
- Fumigation certificate
- Cargo manifest
- Consignee arrival notice
Insurance and Guarantees
- International marine insurance policy
- All-risk coverage certificate
- War and strikes clause included
- Minimum insured value CIF
- Port-to-port coverage validity
Chilean Customs Forms
- Complete DIN Form (Import Declaration) with exact vehicle data
- Submit Cargo Manifest to Chilean Customs
- Process Phytosanitary Certificate with SAG if applicable
- Obtain Temporary Circulation Permit for 90 days
Apostille Required
The title of ownership must be apostilled by the Secretary of State in the corresponding US state. Documents without apostille are not accepted by Chilean Customs and result in vehicle detention.
Customs Clearance Process at Chilean Ports
Vehicle customs clearance in Chile takes 5-10 business days and includes document submission to SAG and Customs, physical vehicle inspection, tariff and VAT payment, and temporary circulation permit issuance.
The customs clearance process in Chile follows strict procedures requiring coordination among multiple government entities. Proper document preparation can significantly reduce release times.Stages of Vehicle Customs Clearance
- Arrival of vehicle at Chilean port and consignee notification
- Document submission to SAG for phytosanitary inspection
- Declaration to Chilean Customs with CIF valuation
- Physical inspection of vehicle by customs personnel
- Liquidation and payment of tariffs, VAT, and port fees
- Issuance of temporary circulation permit for 90 days
- Withdrawal of vehicle from port to final destination
Vehicle customs clearance at Chilean ports takes 5-10 business days with complete documentation. Incomplete documents can extend the process to 20 days.
Entities Involved in the Process
- SAG (Agricultural and Livestock Service): mandatory phytosanitary inspection
- Chilean Customs: valuation, tax liquidation, and release
- Police Investigation: VIN verification and document review
- Civil Registry: temporary circulation permit issuance
- Customs broker: comprehensive process management (recommended)
Customs Broker Recommended
Using an experienced customs broker reduces release times by 2-4 days and minimizes costly error risks. The additional $400-$800 USD cost is justified by expertise and local connections.
Taxes and Tariffs in Chile
Chile charges 6% tariff plus 19% VAT on the vehicle's CIF value. For a car valued at $15,000 USD, total taxes would be approximately $3,750 USD (25% of CIF value).
Import taxes in Chile are calculated on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value that includes vehicle price, marine insurance, and freight to the Chilean port. This taxable base determines the final tariff and VAT amount.Vehicle Tax Structure
General Tariff
- Standard rate: 6% on CIF value
- Applies to all used vehicles
- Calculation base: CIF value in USD
- Conversion to Chilean pesos at official exchange rate
VAT (Value Added Tax)
- Standard rate: 19% on (CIF + tariff)
- Applies to all imports
- Calculation: 19% × (CIF value + 6% tariff)
- Payment required before release
Tax Calculation Example
The combination of 6% tariff + 19% VAT results in approximately 25% effective total rate on the vehicle's CIF value.
- Calculate tariff: $15,000 × 6% = $900 USD
- Determine VAT base: $15,000 + $900 = $15,900 USD
- Apply VAT: $15,900 × 19% = $3,021 USD
- Total taxes: $900 + $3,021 = $3,921 USD
Port Fees and Additional Services
- Port handling: $150-$300 USD depending on port and method
- Storage: $15-$25 USD per day after free period
- Physical inspection: $80-$120 USD per vehicle
- Document management: $100-$200 USD depending on broker
Tax Optimization
Correct vehicle valuation is crucial. Undervaluations can result in 100% fines on evaded taxes, while overvaluations unnecessarily increase tax burden.
Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Special Regulations
Chile offers special incentives for electric and hybrid vehicles including reduced tariffs (0% for pure electric) and age restriction exemptions. The homologation process is also simplified.
Electric and hybrid vehicles receive preferential treatment in Chile as part of national electromobility policy. These incentives aim to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation.Tariff Incentives by Vehicle Type
100% Electric Vehicles
- Tariff: 0% (full exemption)
- VAT: 19% on CIF value only
- Effective total rate: 19%
- Valid through: December 2026
- Age restriction exemption
Hybrid Vehicles
- Reduced tariff: 3% on CIF value
- VAT: 19% on (CIF + 3% tariff)
- Effective total rate: 22.6%
- Applies to certified hybrids
- Extended age limit: 10 years
Requirements for Benefit Eligibility
- Manufacturer certification: technical specification of electric/hybrid system
- Special homologation: simplified process for electric vehicles
- Program registration: enrollment in national electromobility registry
- Technical verification: inspection of electrical components by authorized center
Electric vehicles save 6% tariff versus standard rate, while hybrids get 50% reduction (3% vs 6% standard).
Time-Limited Opportunity
Electric vehicle incentives are valid through December 2026. Imports planned for 2027 should account for return to standard 6% tariff.
Vehicle Preparation for Ocean Shipping
Before shipping, the vehicle must have maximum 1/4 tank of fuel, battery disconnected, alarms deactivated, and be completely clean. Remove all personal items except factory tools.
Proper vehicle preparation is fundamental to comply with international maritime regulations and avoid delays at origin or destination. Requirements are strict and verified before loading.Fuel and Fluid Requirements
- Fuel: maximum 1/4 tank (25% capacity)
- Engine oil: normal level, no excess
- Brake fluid: adequate level for operation
- Coolant: normal level, appropriate antifreeze
- Windshield washer: empty tank recommended
Electrical and Mechanical Preparation
- Disconnect vehicle battery to prevent discharge during transport
- Deactivate all alarms and remote security systems
- Remove removable antennas and loose external accessories
- Verify tire pressure per manufacturer specifications
- Ensure vehicle starts and moves independently (for RoRo)
Fuel Restriction
Vehicles with more than 1/4 tank are rejected by shipping lines due to maritime safety regulations. Excess fuel must be drained before loading, which can cost $100-$200 USD.
Cleaning and Condition Documentation
Required Cleaning
- Complete exterior wash without residue
- Full interior vacuuming
- Trunk/cargo area cleaning
- Removal of non-permanent decals
- Engine cleaning (recommended)
Visual Documentation
- Exterior photographs (6 angles minimum)
- Documentation of existing damage
- Interior and dashboard photos
- Visible VIN number
- Clear odometer reading
International Marine Insurance for Vehicles
International marine insurance is mandatory and covers transport damage. It costs 0.5-1.5% of vehicle value and must include 'all-risk' coverage with war and strikes clause.
International marine insurance protects your investment during ocean transport and is mandatory for customs clearance in Chile. Selecting the right coverage can make a difference in case of loss.Available Coverage Types
Basic Coverage (FPA)
- Total loss of vehicle only
- Cost: 0.3-0.5% of insured value
- Excludes partial damage
- Not recommended for high-value vehicles
All-Risk (Recommended)
- Total loss and partial damage
- Cost: 0.8-1.5% of insured value
- Includes theft and vandalism
- Coverage during loading/unloading
Required Special Clauses
- War and Strikes: coverage against war acts, terrorism, and labor strikes
- Loading and Unloading: protection during port handling
- General Average: proportional contribution if ship is sacrificed
- Sue and Labour: expenses to minimize losses during claim
All-risk insurance with complete clauses averages 1.2% of vehicle value, providing comprehensive protection throughout ocean transport.
Insurance Valuation
Insure the vehicle for its CIF value (cost + freight + insurance) plus 10% additional for replacement expenses. This overvaluation is standard in international marine insurance.
Factors Affecting Shipping Price
Shipping price depends on vehicle size, shipping method (RoRo vs container), origin/destination port, shipping season, and additional services like insurance and documentation.
Price factors in vehicle shipping are multiple and can vary significantly based on market conditions and shipment specifications. Understanding these elements allows cost optimization without compromising service quality.Variables by Vehicle Characteristics
- Size and weight: sedans cost 20-30% less than SUVs or pickups
- Vehicle height: modified units require specialized container (approx. +$400-$800)
- Operational status: non-operational vehicles container-only (approx. +$870 from Miami versus RoRo)
- Declared value: affects marine insurance cost proportionally
Impact of Routes and Ports
US Origin Ports
- Miami: frequent RoRo services
- Houston: RoRo and container available
- Long Beach: container only, fastest
- New Orleans: monthly RoRo, economical
Chilean Destination Ports
- Valparaíso: highest frequency, standard costs
- San Antonio: fast access to Santiago
- Antofagasta: limited services, approx. +$200-$400
- Iquique: sporadic services, approx. +$300-$600
Seasonal Variations
During peak season (October-March), freight rates can increase 15-25% due to higher demand and shipping line capacity restrictions.
- Peak season (October-March): 15-25% rate increase for RoRo and container
- Low season (April-September): standard rates, greater availability
- Specific peaks: November-December with increases up to 35%
- Promotions: May-August with 10-15% discounts available
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Quote now →Customs Brokers and Management in Chile
Using a customs broker in Chile is highly recommended for vehicle customs clearance. Fees range $400-$800 USD and include complete management with SAG, Customs, and permit acquisition.
Professional customs management in Chile significantly simplifies the vehicle import process and reduces costly error risks. Experienced brokers maintain established relationships with authorities and know current procedures.Services Included in Customs Management
- Document submission: to SAG, Customs, and Civil Registry
- Inspection coordination: scheduling and accompaniment during reviews
- Tax liquidation: tariff and VAT calculation and payment
- Permit management: obtaining 90-day temporary circulation permit
- Logistics coordination: port withdrawal and destination delivery
- Complete follow-up: status reports throughout the process
Professional Fee Structure
Basic Services
- Standard customs clearance: $400-$600 USD
- Document management: included
- Inspection accompaniment: included
- Circulation permit: included
Premium Services
- Complete management: $650-$850 USD
- Homologation included: +$200-$400
- Home delivery: +$150-$300
- Expedited management: +$200-$500
Broker Selection
Choose customs brokers with specific vehicle import experience and active registration with Chilean Customs. Verify references from previous clients and average release times.
Benefits of Professional Management
- Time reduction: release in 5-7 days vs 10-15 days self-management
- Error minimization: experience prevents delays from incorrect documentation
- Institutional relationships: direct access to officials and expedited procedures
- Contingency management: quick resolution of unexpected issues
- Cost transparency: fixed quotes without hidden surprises
Get Your Instant Quote for Shipping to Chile
Our embedded calculator lets you get real prices for RoRo and container shipping to all Chilean ports. Compare routes, methods, and transit times in real time without prior contact.
Instant quotation eliminates the traditional 24-48 hour wait for vehicle shipping prices. Our system updates daily with real carrier rates and considers all factors affecting final cost.Embedded Calculator Features
Get complete quotes for RoRo and container to all Chilean ports in under 30 seconds, with prices updated daily.
- Real-time prices: rates updated daily from shipping lines
- Multiple options: automatic RoRo vs container comparison
- All ports: Valparaíso, San Antonio, Antofagasta, Iquique
- Complete costs: includes freight, documentation, insurance, and fees
- Transit times: accurate estimates by selected route
- No registration: immediate access without personal data required
Information Included in Each Quote
- Base ocean freight: port-to-port cost by selected method
- Complete documentation: Bill of Lading, certificates, and forms
- Marine insurance: all-risk coverage with standard clauses
- Handling charges: loading at origin and unloading at destination
- Tax estimate: 6% tariff + 19% VAT on CIF value
Quote Accuracy
Our quotes include 95% of total shipping costs. Final variations are limited to minor fuel surcharge (BAF) fluctuations and exchange rates at shipment time.
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Calculate your shipment →No, Chile does not allow importing private vehicles over 8 years old from their manufacturing year. This restriction is strict and applies without exception for personal use vehicles. Commercial vehicles have an even lower 6-year limit.
The complete process takes 30-45 days from shipment to vehicle registration in Chile. This includes 14-25 days ocean transit, 5-10 days customs clearance, and 10-15 additional days for homologation and final registration. Times can extend during peak seasons or with incomplete documentation.
RoRo is generally more economical than container; see the price table at the top of this page for current rates. However, container offers greater protection and allows shipping personal belongings with the vehicle. The price difference is justified by protection level and additional services included.
You must apostille the original vehicle title with the Secretary of State in the corresponding US state. The purchase invoice and certificate of origin must also be legalized or apostilled. All documents must be translated to Spanish by an official translator once in Chile.
Vehicle homologation in Chile costs $800-$1,500 USD depending on vehicle type and inspection center. This cost includes technical inspection, emissions certification, and homologation certificate acquisition. It is mandatory for all imported vehicles and must be completed before final registration.
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