Quick Answer: Shipping a car from Miami to Ecuador in its own 20 ft container costs from $2,220 with AB Group Shipping (September 2026 quote), port to port to Guayaquil, with about 17 days in transit. RoRo shipping runs approx. $1,350. The price excludes Ecuador's import taxes and destination charges.
- Ecuador does not allow used vehicles to be imported, with a few legal exceptions (returning Ecuadorians, persons with a disability, diplomats); anyone can ship a new vehicle and pays the full import taxes
- Vehicle shipping from Miami costs $2,220 in a 20 ft container (September 2026 rates); RO-RO approx. $1,350, shared container approx. $1,550
- U.S. Customs needs the original title and the vehicle at the port at least 72 hours before export; Ecuador's customs (SENAE) asks for the transport document, the invoice or title and the papers of the regime you use
- AB Group's car shipments from Miami arrive at Guayaquil after about 17 days at sea (September 2026 rates)
Before You Buy: Ecuador Bans Used Vehicle Imports
Ecuador only admits new vehicles whose model year is the year of import or the following year (COMEX Resolution 51). A used car can enter only under a legal exception: the household-goods regime of a returning Ecuadorian (one car worth up to 80 unified basic salaries, USD 38,560 in 2026, with a model year within the last five years, shipped together with the household goods), the exemption for persons with a disability, or diplomatic privileges. Foreign residents cannot bring a car with their household goods. Anyone can ship a new vehicle and pays the full import taxes. Confirm your case with SENAE or a licensed customs agent before you buy or ship.
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Go to the calculator →Reference prices: shipping a vehicle from the USA to Ecuador
| Departure port | Price | Transit |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | $2,220 | 17 days |
| Houston | $2,537 | 24 days |
| New JerseyPhiladelphia | $2,220 | 15 days |
| Los AngelesLong Beach | $2,437 | 14 days |
Port to port to Guayaquil, 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 $2,235, half of them between $2,220 and $2,779 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.
Why Choose Miami for Ecuador Car Shipping?
Miami gives a direct container service to Guayaquil with about 17 days at sea, according to AB Group Shipping's September 2026 rates. It is the natural departure port for vehicles located in Florida and the Southeast.
Our rate system prices vehicle shipments to Ecuador from several U.S. ports. The sea leg, at September 2026 rates:- Miami to Guayaquil: 17 days, direct
- Philadelphia to Guayaquil: 15 days, direct
- Long Beach to Guayaquil-Posorja: 14 days
- Houston to Guayaquil-Posorja: 24 days
- Savannah to Posorja: 25 days
Miami to Guayaquil in a container, port to port, at AB Group Shipping's September 2026 rates. Add the inland haul to Miami, U.S. export clearance and customs clearance in Ecuador.
Ecuador Port Options: Guayaquil vs Manta Comparison
AB Group's vehicle shipments from the USA arrive at Guayaquil or at the deepwater port of Posorja, which serves the Guayaquil area. Manta is Ecuador's main port for vehicles arriving on car carriers, but our container services do not call there.
Guayaquil and Posorja (ECGYE / ECPSJ)
- Where our shipments arrive: Guayaquil from Miami and Philadelphia, Guayaquil-Posorja from Houston and Long Beach
- 17 days at sea from Miami (September 2026 rates)
- Posorja is a deepwater container terminal operated by DP World, open since 2019
- Customs clearance is handled at the SENAE district where the cargo arrives
Manta Port (ECMEC)
- Ecuador's vehicle port: its terminal reports more than 95% of the vehicles that entered the country in 2025
- Those vehicles arrive on car carriers (146 calls in 2025)
- No AB Group container service from the USA arrives at Manta
Pro Tip
Plan around Guayaquil. It is where our vehicle shipments are released, and a customs agent there can prepare the declaration while the vessel is at sea.
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Calculate shipping costs →Miami Port Facilities and Vehicle Terminals
PortMiami is a landlord port: its cargo terminals are run by three operators, Port of Miami Terminal Operating Company (POMTOC), Seaboard Marine and South Florida Container Terminal. A vehicle bound for Ecuador in a container is loaded at a warehouse, and U.S. Customs checks its title before it can sail.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) controls the export of every used vehicle. Under 19 CFR 192.2, the original certificate of title, two complete copies and the vehicle itself must be presented to CBP at the port of export at least 72 hours before export. If the vehicle is leased or has a lien, CBP also asks for a signed letter from the lienholder that allows the export. What happens before sailing:- The export filing (EEI) is made in the Automated Export System and its ITN number is given to CBP at least 72 hours before export
- The vehicle is received and photographed at the warehouse
- It is loaded, blocked and lashed inside the container
- The sealed container goes to the terminal before the vessel's cut-off
CBP must have the original title and the vehicle at least 72 hours before export. A title delivered late means the vehicle waits for the next sailing.
RO-RO vs Container Shipping: Which Method is Best?
RO-RO shipping from Miami costs approx. $1,350 for standard cars with faster loading. A dedicated 20 ft container costs $2,220 from Miami (September 2026 rates), or approx. $1,550 shared, and offers better protection and allows personal items inside the vehicle.
RO-RO (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping provides the most cost-effective method for standard passenger vehicles in good operating condition. Vehicles drive directly onto the vessel and park in designated areas below deck. The process requires minimal preparation beyond fuel draining and personal item removal.RO-RO Shipping
- approx. $1,350 from Miami for standard cars
- Sailing dates and arrival port are confirmed with the RO-RO quote
- Vehicle must be operational and driveable
- Maximum 1/4 tank fuel allowed
- No personal items permitted inside vehicle
- Weekly departure schedules available
Container Shipping
- $2,220 from Miami for a dedicated 20 ft container (September 2026 rates); shared approx. $1,550
- 17-day transit time from Miami
- Non-running vehicles accepted
- Complete weather protection during transit
- Limited personal belongings allowed
- Bi-weekly container consolidation service
Important Restriction
RO-RO vessels prohibit personal items inside vehicles due to safety regulations and customs requirements. Any items found during loading will be removed and may result in shipping delays or additional fees.
Car Shipping Costs Miami to Ecuador Breakdown
Ocean freight from Miami is $2,220 for a car in its own 20 ft container (September 2026 rates), approx. $1,350 by RO-RO or approx. $1,550 in a shared container, plus documentation fees ($150-$250), terminal handling ($200-$300), and insurance ($100-$200). Final price depends on vehicle size, shipping method, and seasonal demand.
Ocean freight charges represent the largest cost component, varying based on shipping method and vessel space availability. RO-RO rates remain more stable throughout the year while container rates fluctuate based on overall cargo demand and container availability.Port-to-port price for one car in its own 20 ft container from Miami (September 2026 rates); RO-RO approx. $1,350. Add $800-$1,200 for Ecuador customs clearance and inland delivery to final destination.
- Ocean Freight: approx. $1,350 (RO-RO), $2,220 (20 ft container, September 2026 rates), approx. $1,550 (shared container)
- Documentation & Export Filing: $150-$250 including AES filing and export documentation
- Terminal Handling Charges: $200-$300 covering port processing and loading fees
- Marine Insurance: $100-$200 (0.5-1% of declared vehicle value)
- Fuel Draining Service: $75-$100 if required for compliance
- Vehicle Inspection: $50-$75 for pre-departure condition documentation
Money-Saving Tip
Book shipments during off-peak months (March-October) for the best rates. Flexible departure dates can save $300-$500 by taking advantage of vessel space availability and promotional pricing.
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Get your quote now →Transit Times: Miami to Ecuador Delivery Schedule
The sea leg from Miami to Guayaquil takes about 17 days in a container, at AB Group Shipping's September 2026 rates. Add the days before sailing (pickup, loading and the 72-hour U.S. Customs rule) and customs clearance in Ecuador after arrival.
Before sailing, the vehicle has to reach Miami, be loaded and be presented to U.S. Customs with its title at least 72 hours before export. After arrival, the time depends on the regime you import under and on how complete your paperwork is. Timeline:- Pickup and delivery to Miami: depends on where the vehicle is in the USA
- U.S. export clearance: title and vehicle with CBP at least 72 hours before export
- Ocean transit to Guayaquil: about 17 days from Miami, direct (September 2026 rates)
- Customs declaration in Ecuador: it can be transmitted from 15 days before the vessel arrives and up to 30 days after arrival; past that, SENAE treats the cargo as abandoned
- Clearance: for a returning Ecuadorian's household goods and vehicle, SENAE's own rule caps clearance at ten business days from the acceptance of the declaration
- Inland delivery: quoted separately from Guayaquil to your city
Miami to Guayaquil, port to port, in a container (September 2026 rates). From other ports in our rate system: Philadelphia 15 days, Long Beach 14, Houston 24, Savannah 25.
Required Documentation for Ecuador Vehicle Import
The documents depend on the regime. A new vehicle imported the ordinary way needs the bill of lading, the commercial invoice and the homologation certificate of Ecuador's transit agency (ANT). A returning Ecuadorian needs the returned-migrant certificate, a sworn declaration and the title or invoice in the family's name. On the U.S. side, CBP needs the original title 72 hours before export.
On the U.S. side, the rule is the same for everyone who exports a used vehicle: the original certificate of title (or a certified copy) plus two complete copies, presented to CBP with the vehicle at least 72 hours before export. A vehicle with a lien or a lease also needs the lienholder's signed letter that allows the export. What Ecuador's customs (SENAE) asks for:- Every import: transport document (bill of lading), commercial invoice or the document that proves the transaction, and the certificate of origin when a tariff preference applies
- Ordinary import of a new vehicle: the importer's RUC tax number, electronic signature and registration in SENAE's ECUAPASS system, plus ANT's homologation certificate for that model
- Returning Ecuadorian: returned-migrant certificate, sworn declaration of ownership made at an Ecuadorian consulate or before a notary, and a notarized copy of the passport or ID card
- Returning Ecuadorian's vehicle: original invoice, title or registration in the name of the migrant or a family member, dated before the migrant's arrival in Ecuador; the U.S. export declaration number; and a dealer's certificate of the price at which the vehicle came to market
- Power of Attorney: a notarized special power if someone else handles the process for you
Check the Title Before You Buy
SENAE does not accept wrecked vehicles under the returning-migrant regime: a purchase document marked "Salvage" or equivalent excludes the vehicle even if it arrives repaired. And a vehicle whose papers show it as anything other than new cannot enter as an ordinary import.
Ecuador Import Duties and Tax Calculations
A new vehicle imported into Ecuador pays four taxes: the ad valorem tariff (35% to 40% of the CIF value for most gasoline and diesel cars), FODINFA (0.5% of CIF), the special consumption tax ICE (5% to 35% by retail price band) and 15% VAT (IVA). Used vehicles cannot be imported, except under the legal exemptions.
Who can import, and what they pay:- Anyone, with a new vehicle: the model year must be the year of import or the following year, and the vehicle's papers must show it as new (COMEX Resolution 51). It pays every tax below.
- Returning Ecuadorians: one car worth up to 80 unified basic salaries (USD 38,560 in 2026) or one motorcycle up to 25 (USD 12,050), new or used, with a model year within the last five years, shipped together with the household goods. It is exempt from import taxes and cannot be sold for four years. The person must have lived abroad for more than two years.
- Persons with a disability: a vehicle for personal use with an FOB price of up to 60 unified basic salaries (USD 28,920 in 2026), new or with a model year within the last three years, once every five years and with prior authorization (Organic Law on Persons with Disabilities, 2025). Confirm the requirements with SENAE before buying.
- Diplomats: under Ecuador's law on diplomatic immunities and privileges.
- Foreign residents, retirees and tourists: no exemption. They cannot bring a vehicle with their household goods, and they cannot import a used one.
- Ad Valorem Tariff: 40% of the CIF value for most gasoline and diesel cars and light pickups, 35% for gasoline cars above 1,900 cc. Hybrids pay 0% to 35% depending on engine size, fully electric cars 0% and motorcycles 30% (COMEX tariff schedule, Resolution 002-2023)
- FODINFA: 0.5% of the CIF value
- ICE (Special Consumption Tax): 5% up to a retail price of USD 20,000, rising by bands to 35% above USD 70,000; pickups and vans pay 5% up to USD 30,000. Hybrid and electric vehicles are exempt
- IVA (VAT): 15% on the CIF value plus the tariff, FODINFA and ICE. Fully electric vehicles are taxed at 0%
- Private charges on top: port handling and storage ($150-$200) and the customs broker ($300-$500)
Ecuador's VAT on imports is 15%, charged on top of the CIF value, the tariff, FODINFA and ICE. The four taxes stack, so the total is well above the tariff rate alone.
Rates Change
Tariffs are set by COMEX and change. Ecuador and the United States signed a reciprocal trade agreement on March 13, 2026 that would lower tariffs on U.S.-made vehicles, but as of early September 2026 it had not entered into force. Ask a licensed customs agent for the rate on your exact vehicle before you buy.
Vehicle Preparation Requirements Before Shipping
Vehicles must have less than 1/4 tank fuel, clean exterior/interior, removed personal items, and disconnected battery. RO-RO shipments require operational condition with valid registration, while container shipping allows non-running vehicles with proper documentation.
Fuel level restrictions limit gasoline to maximum 1/4 tank capacity for safety during ocean transit. Diesel vehicles may carry slightly more fuel but must comply with vessel-specific requirements. Fuel draining services are available at Miami terminals for $75-$100 if needed. Pre-shipping preparation checklist:- Reduce Fuel: Maximum 1/4 tank gasoline, check with carrier for diesel limits
- Clean Vehicle: Wash exterior and interior to facilitate customs inspection
- Remove Personal Items: All belongings must be removed for RO-RO shipping
- Disconnect Battery: Negative terminal disconnection prevents electrical drain
- Secure Loose Parts: Remove or secure antennas, spoilers, and aftermarket accessories
- Document Condition: Photograph vehicle from all angles before shipping
Personal Items Restriction
RO-RO shipping strictly prohibits personal items inside vehicles. Items found during loading will be removed and may result in additional fees or shipping delays. Container shipping allows limited personal belongings with proper declaration.
Insurance Coverage and Liability Protection
Marine cargo insurance covers vehicle damage during ocean transit for 0.5-1% of declared value. Standard coverage includes total loss, partial damage, and general average. Additional warehouse-to-warehouse coverage recommended for complete door-to-door protection.
Marine cargo insurance provides essential protection against damage, theft, or total loss during ocean transit. Standard policies cover perils of the sea, fire, theft, and general average contributions. Coverage begins when the vehicle enters the vessel and ends upon discharge at the destination port. Insurance coverage options:- Marine Transit Coverage: 0.5-1% of vehicle value for ocean transit only
- Warehouse-to-Warehouse: Extended coverage including port handling and storage
- Total Loss Protection: Full replacement value if vessel sinks or cargo is lost
- Partial Damage Coverage: Repair costs from loading, transit, or discharge incidents
- General Average: Protection against shared loss contributions from cargo emergencies
Marine cargo insurance typically costs 0.5-1% of declared vehicle value. A $25,000 vehicle requires $125-$250 in insurance premiums for complete transit coverage.
Coverage Recommendation
Choose warehouse-to-warehouse coverage for complete protection including port handling, storage, and customs processing. The additional premium provides peace of mind for the entire shipping process.
Ecuador Customs Clearance Process Step-by-Step
Clearance in Ecuador runs through ECUAPASS, the electronic system of the customs service (SENAE). The importer or a customs agent accredited by SENAE transmits the import declaration, SENAE assigns a control channel (automatic, documentary, physical or non-intrusive), taxes are settled and the vehicle is released. Customs procedures themselves have no fee.
SENAE (Servicio Nacional de Aduana del Ecuador) requires that the clearance be handled by the importer or by a customs agent, and both must be accredited by SENAE. Foreigners importing household goods must use a customs agent; returning Ecuadorians may act on their own, through an attorney-in-fact or through an agent. Step by step:- Before Shipping: confirm that the vehicle can be imported under your regime and gather the supporting documents
- Prior Inspection (returning Ecuadorians): SENAE inspects the household goods and the vehicle before the declaration is transmitted, in the presence of the migrant, an attorney-in-fact or the customs agent
- Import Declaration: transmitted in ECUAPASS from 15 days before the vessel arrives and up to 30 days after arrival
- Control Channel: SENAE reviews the documents and, when it assigns a physical inspection, the vehicle and its VIN
- Taxes: assessed on the CIF value for ordinary imports; exempt regimes still pay customs service fees and the port's storage and handling charges
- Release: SENAE authorizes the vehicle to leave the terminal
- Registration: the vehicle is registered and plated in Ecuador; exempt vehicles are registered with a ban on selling them
Deadline to transmit the import declaration. After that, SENAE treats the cargo as tacitly abandoned, so have the documents ready before the vessel docks.
Documentation Critical
Incomplete or inconsistent documents delay a release. Make sure the VIN, the owner's name and the declared value match on the title, the invoice and the bill of lading before the vehicle ships.
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Calculate costs and timeline →Getting Your Ecuador Car Shipping Quote
Use the embedded quote calculator below to get instant pricing for Miami to Ecuador car shipping. Enter your vehicle details, departure date, and preferred shipping method for real-time rates from multiple carriers serving the Ecuador route.
Instant quote calculations provide accurate pricing based on current carrier rates, fuel surcharges, and seasonal adjustments. The calculator prices container shipping to Guayaquil and shows, for each option, the port it leaves from, the port where it arrives and the transit time. Quote system features:- Real-time Pricing: Live carrier rates updated daily for accurate cost estimates
- Multiple Options: Compare RO-RO vs container shipping costs and transit times
- Ports: Every option shows the port it leaves from and the port where it arrives
- Optional Services: Add insurance, customs clearance, and inland delivery costs
- Document Checklist: Receive customized document requirements for your shipment
Quote Accuracy Tips
Provide accurate vehicle information including modifications, aftermarket accessories, and operational status. Incorrect information can result in price adjustments and potential shipping delays.
Ship your car with AB Group Shipping
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For current car shipping prices from Miami to Ecuador, including RO-RO and container options, see the price table at the top of this page. Final price depends on vehicle size, shipping method, and seasonal demand.
No, personal items are not allowed in vehicles shipped via RO-RO service to Ecuador due to safety regulations. Container shipping allows limited personal belongings inside the vehicle, but items must be declared and may be subject to additional customs duties. Always check with your shipping provider for current restrictions.
Only under a legal exception. Ecuador admits new vehicles only, so a used car can enter as part of a returning Ecuadorian's household goods, under the exemption for persons with a disability, or with diplomatic privileges. Foreign residents and tourists cannot import a used car. Confirm your case with SENAE or a licensed customs agent before buying.
The sea leg from Miami to Guayaquil takes about 17 days in a container, at AB Group Shipping's September 2026 rates. Add the days before sailing, because U.S. Customs needs the title and the vehicle at least 72 hours before export, and customs clearance in Ecuador after arrival. Our vehicle shipments arrive at Guayaquil; we have no service to Manta.
A customs agent accredited by SENAE, or a person with a notarized special power of attorney, can handle the clearance for you. Under the returning-migrant regime the benefit depends on your own return to Ecuador: you need the returned-migrant certificate, and if the cargo arrives before you do, you can ask SENAE for up to 30 more calendar days to file the declaration.
Guides for shipping to Ecuador
- Moving to Ecuador Cost Calculator: Quotes from USA (2026) · Household move page (calculator + guide)
- Container Calculator Ecuador: FCL Rates 2026 · Container (FCL) calculator
- Air Freight Calculator Ecuador 2026: Instant Quotes · Air freight calculator
- How Long Does Shipping to Ecuador Take? 3–24 Days · Transit times
- Cargo Inspection in Miami: Photo Reports Before Ecuador