Puerto Rico Car Shipping FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
We’re here to make your Puerto Rico car shipping smooth and stress-free.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned shipper, Crowley is here to answer the most common questions about shipping a car from Puerto Rico to the U.S. mainland.
Need step-by-step instructions? Read our complete guide to shipping a car from Puerto Rico.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if I didn’t receive the title of my vehicle?
If your car title is missing or the vehicle has an active loan, contact your bank or lending institution. They must provide an original notarized letter authorizing shipment.
Learn more in our required documents checklist.
2. What if my car has had parts replaced?
If your vehicle has undergone repairs or part replacements (e.g., a new bumper), you must:
- Obtain documentation for each replaced part.
- Request reassignment from DTOP (Departamento de Transportación y Obras Públicas).
- Complete this before scheduling the Police Department’s Stolen Vehicle Inspection.
3. Can I pack personal belongings inside the car?
No. Items like umbrellas, boxes, clothing, and electronics are not allowed inside your vehicle. All cars will be inspected by Crowley personnel prior to acceptance.
4. Can I pressure wash the car myself?
No. The USDA requires a certified car wash receipt. Be sure the receipt confirms:
- Exterior wash
- Engine bay cleaning
- Chassis and wheel well pressure wash
Let the car wash know your vehicle is being shipped overseas.
5. How do I calculate my vehicle’s cubic feet?
Use this formula:
(Length in inches x Width x Height) / 1,728 = Cubic Feet
Include cubic feet on the booking form.
6. Do I need to book in advance?
It’s not required but strongly recommended due to high demand. Book early to ensure timely service.
How to Book Your Vehicle Shipment:
- Visit the vehicle shipping page
- Click “Ship Your Vehicle”
- Enter shipment details (origin, destination, vehicle info, etc.)
- Need help? Call 1-800-CROWLEY (1-800-276-9539) to speak with an agent
Be sure to select:
- Port of Origin: San Juan, PR
- Destination Port: Jacksonville, FL or Eddystone, PA
You’ll also need to enter your SSN or EIN (Employer Identification Number). Apply for an EIN here.
7. Should I get cargo insurance?
While not legally required, Crowley highly recommends it.
Optional Coverage Rates:
- $313 for coverage up to $25,000
- $625 for coverage up to $50,000
- $0 deductible
If you decline, you’ll need to sign a Cargo Insurance Opt-Out Form. Crowley’s liability is limited to $500 per vehicle per federal law.
“It is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.”
8. Is a U.S. Customs inspection required?
No, if your destination is the U.S. mainland.
Customs inspections are only required for:
- Shipments to foreign countries
- Shipments to the U.S. Virgin Islands
Vehicles going to these locations must have their Bill of Lading (BoL) stamped by CBP.
CBP San Juan Inspection Office:
Address: International Trade Center, Bldg. #2, Local #3, Road #165, Km. 2.4, Pueblo Viejo, Guaynabo, PR
Phone: (787) 774-4101
Hours: Tues & Thurs, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
9. How long does terminal drop-off take?
Expect to spend at least 45 minutes processing paperwork. Longer waits may occur depending on volume.
Important tips:
- Arrive early for same-day processing
- Don’t book flights too close to drop-off time
- First-come, first-served processing
10. Can I track my shipment?
Yes! Visit Crowley Shipment Tracking and enter your booking number or Customer ID.
11. What is the average cost to ship a car from Puerto Rico?
The cost depends on the size and weight of your vehicle, your destination port, and whether you choose optional insurance. Contact us or request a quote on our vehicle shipping page for current rates.
📞 Have more questions?
Our team is ready to help. Call us at 787-331-1421 or visit our vehicle transport page to learn more.
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