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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.

Crowley barge transporting shipping containers past Castillo San Felipe del Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico

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:

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.

Cars lined up for shipping at the Port of San Juan, Puerto Rico, with a Crowley ship in the background

4. Can I pressure wash the car myself?

No. The USDA requires a certified car wash receipt. Be sure the receipt confirms:

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.

Crowley employee inspecting a car and verifying paperwork for shipment from Puerto Rico to the U.S.

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:

Be sure to select:

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:

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:

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:

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.

Crowley ship shipping a car from Puerto Rico to the U.S.

📞 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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