Shipping a car from UK to California

[MattFu]

OK, so I know it's normally the other way round, but I am being seconded to the LA office for 3 years and would rather like to take the car with me. Anyone got any experience of shipping over to the states. Recommendations on shipping companies and what's involved in terms of taxes, vehicle requirements etc?

Is this madness - should I just be looking to buy another one when I get out there?

[jackstowers]

Sounds like the perfect opportunity to buy another to me! With about a grand in the pot that you'd 'save' by not shipping one out there

[KS]

I shipped my Beetle to SoCal for a series of events three or four years ago. REAL hassle, to be honest, as the (then) new 'paperless' import system in operation in the USA didn't have any provision for temporary imports. Getting the car there and back cost me around £3500 and untold anguish while waiting for the car to be released from US customs.

The biggest problem you will have is getting insurance unless you're a US national or at least hold a US driver's licence (which is worth getting). A lack of social security number doesn't make it any easier either.

However, it is possible, so don't let me put you off!

[neilbardsley]

Yes insurance nearly impossible without a us licence but you should be able to sit a simple test to get your license. I might be tempted to get over there first and then think about it

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[DanG]

Geico offer insurance for Brits abroad for 3 months.

Beyond that you'll need a social security number before you can take your test (theory only, although depends on state) and then a 2 year license, which needs renewing....

The DMV is a menace. I spent over 10 hours (3 trips) there before they would give me my license - so go prepared.

(Test is simple!)

[MattFu]

Thanks everyone. I hadn't even thought about insurance. Sounds like I'll need a US license anyway as I'm there for 3 years.