Shipping any vehicle outside the United States requires proof of ownership. The documentation required is a certificate of title or for new vehicles that have not been previously titled, a manufacturer’s statement of origin (MSO). These documents must be provided to United States Customs at least 72 hours in advance of international shipping for all motor vehicles, including motorhomes. The original document and two copies are required by United States Customs and must be presented to the Port Director at a time and place designated by the director.

Prior to placing an order for international motorhome shipping, contact the customs agent for the country where the vehicle will be shipped to. Laws regulating emissions, lights, engine size, and operation of motorhomes vary. A vehicle may not be cleared by customs if it does not meet that country’s legal standards. A few countries permit temporary importation of non-compliant vehicles if the importer is a tourist or a temporary resident.

International motorhome shipping requires proper precautions be taken to protect the vehicle and to ensure it is ready to be shipped. The motorhome should be thoroughly steam cleaned to remove all dirt and debris, especially from the under carriage and from wheels. Most countries have strict laws governing the importing of materials that may harbor foreign biological matter such as plant seeds. The vehicle will most like not clear customs and be placed in quarantine if it is not clean.

Prior to international motorhome shipping, make sure that the motor home is inspected for damage. Photograph the vehicle to document its condition prior to it being loaded on the ship. The inspection report and photographs may be necessary to demonstrate the condition of the vehicle prior to shipping should a loss occur. Document any mechanical problems with the vehicle. The fuel tank must be drained to the lowest possible level if the motorhome is to be shipped via a roll-on roll-off vessel. If the motor home is to be shipped in a cargo container, empty the fuel tank. There should be no personal items attached to or stored in compartments on the motorhome. Tires should be properly inflated to avoid damage to the wheels and tires during shipping and moving of the vehicle on and off the container. The battery should be fully charged. Before international motorhome shipping, make sure there are no fluid leaks. Fluid leaks can damage the motor home as well as other cargo. After your vehicle arrives at the destination port, it is the responsibility of the importer to pay all duty and taxes if applicable.