Shipping vehicles from the United States to Costa Rica continues to grow in popularity, especially among individuals, dealers, and businesses seeking reliable access to American cars, SUVs, trucks, and commercial equipment. One of the most efficient and widely used shipping methods is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping, known for its affordability, speed, and simplicity. Whether you are relocating, importing a personal vehicle, or shipping commercial units to Costa Rica, RORO shipping offers a dependable solution.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and machinery logistics, providing safe, efficient, and cost-effective RORO shipping services from major U.S. ports to Costa Rica, with inland delivery options to Cartago. With extensive experience, competitive pricing, and scheduled sailings, we ensure a smooth and stress-free shipping experience from the USA to Costa Rica.
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Why Choose RORO Shipping to Costa Rica?
RORO shipping is one of the most practical ways to transport vehicles to Costa Rica. Vehicles are driven directly onto specialized RORO vessels, securely fastened for ocean transit, and driven off upon arrival at the Costa Rican port.
Key advantages include:
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More affordable than container shipping
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Faster loading and unloading
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Reduced handling minimizes risk of damage
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Suitable for sedans, SUVs, trucks, vans, and buses
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Ideal for heavy machinery and rolling equipment
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Best for running vehicles (non-running accepted at extra cost)
Popular RORO Ports in the United States
RORO shipments to Costa Rica depart from several major U.S. ports. The ideal departure port depends on vehicle location, cost, and sailing schedules.
Major U.S. RORO Export Ports
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Miami, Florida
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Jacksonville, Florida
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Brunswick, Georgia
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Savannah, Georgia
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Galveston, Texas
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Houston, Texas
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Los Angeles / Long Beach (West Coast)
How to Choose the Best Port
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Choose the closest port to reduce inland transport costs
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Gulf and East Coast ports offer faster transit to Central America
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Compare sailing frequency and total cost
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Ask All Transport Depot about port-specific rate options
Costa Rican Ports Serving Cartago
Cartago is located inland, so vehicles shipped via RORO arrive at Costa Rica’s main seaports before inland transport to the city.
Primary RORO Ports in Costa Rica
Puerto Limón (Limón / Moín – Caribbean Coast)
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Main port for vehicle imports
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Faster transit from the U.S. East Coast
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Efficient customs and inspection facilities
Puerto Caldera (Pacific Coast)
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Suitable for West Coast shipments
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Modern port infrastructure
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Handles vehicles, trucks, and machinery
After arrival, vehicles can be transported by truck directly to Cartago.
Types of Vehicles and Machinery Shipped via RORO
RORO shipping accommodates a wide range of rolling cargo, making it ideal for both private and commercial shipments.
Passenger Vehicles
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Sedans
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Hatchbacks
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SUVs
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Crossovers
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Minivans
Commercial Vehicles
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Pickup trucks
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Cargo vans
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Buses
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Box trucks
Heavy Machinery
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Excavators
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Bulldozers
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Forklifts
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Wheel loaders
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Agricultural machinery
Other Rolling Equipment
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Motorcycles
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RVs and campers
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Boats on trailers
Non-Running Units
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Accepted with special handling
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Additional fees apply
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Early port delivery required
Cost of RORO Shipping to Cartago, Costa Rica (2025 Guide)
RORO shipping costs vary based on vehicle size, departure port, and market conditions. While exact pricing depends on several variables, the following factors influence overall cost.
Factors That Affect RORO Rates
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Vehicle size, height, and weight
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U.S. port of departure
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Running vs. non-running condition
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Seasonal demand and fuel costs
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Port and documentation fees
Typical Price Ranges (Estimated)
(Exact pricing varies by port and season—contact All Transport Depot for accurate quotes.)
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Sedan: Lower-cost, competitive rates
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SUV: Moderately higher due to size
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Pickup truck: Based on length and height
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Heavy machinery: Priced by cubic meters (CBM)
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to Costa Rica
Proper documentation ensures smooth export from the U.S. and efficient customs clearance in Costa Rica.
Required documents include:
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Original Vehicle Title
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Bill of Sale
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Copy of Passport or Government ID
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Export Power of Attorney (provided by All Transport Depot)
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Consignee details in Costa Rica
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Customs broker information (recommended)
For auction or salvage vehicles, additional release paperwork may be required.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Ship a Car from USA to Cartago via RORO
All Transport Depot manages the entire shipping process to ensure reliability and transparency.
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Request a Quote
Provide vehicle details, pickup location, and destination (Cartago). -
Pickup or Port Delivery
Door-to-port and port drop-off options available. -
Vehicle Inspection at Port
Unit is inspected before loading. -
U.S. Export Clearance
We handle export documentation and filing. -
RORO Vessel Loading
Vehicle is driven onboard and secured. -
Ocean Transit to Costa Rica
Ships operate on scheduled routes. -
Arrival & Customs Clearance
Duties, taxes, and inspections are completed. -
Inland Transport to Cartago
Vehicle is delivered or collected after port release.
Transit Time from USA to Costa Rica
Transit time depends on the U.S. port of departure and the selected Costa Rican port.
Estimated transit times:
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East Coast to Puerto Limón: ~7–14 days
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Gulf Coast to Puerto Limón: ~10–18 days
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West Coast to Puerto Caldera: ~15–25 days
Transit times may vary due to weather, port congestion, or seasonal demand.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to Costa Rica
Customers can reduce costs by planning shipments strategically and preparing vehicles correctly.
Money-saving tips include:
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Ship from the closest U.S. port
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Avoid peak shipping seasons
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Ensure the vehicle is running
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Submit all documents early
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Book sailings in advance
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Work with a licensed shipper like All Transport Depot
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping to Costa Rica
Many delays occur due to incomplete paperwork or lack of preparation.
Common mistakes include:
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Missing or incorrect documents
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Leaving personal items inside the vehicle
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Incorrect consignee or ID details
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Late customs paperwork submission
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Using unlicensed shipping agents
Avoiding these issues helps ensure timely clearance and delivery.
Why Ship With All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted international logistics provider, offering dependable RORO shipping services from the USA to Costa Rica.
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Fully licensed and bonded U.S. NVOCC
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Extensive experience with Central America shipments
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Regular RORO sailings to Costa Rica
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Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
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Door-to-port and inland delivery options
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Dedicated customer support
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Fast and accurate documentation handling
Our mission is to make vehicle shipping to Costa Rica simple, secure, and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed car to Costa Rica?
Only if the lien is cleared or written export permission is provided.
• Does the vehicle have to be running?
Running vehicles are preferred, but non-running units can be shipped at extra cost.
• Can I place personal items inside the vehicle?
No. RORO regulations require vehicles to be empty.
• How long does customs clearance take in Costa Rica?
Typically 2–5 business days, depending on inspections and paperwork.
• What is the most affordable way to ship a car to Costa Rica?
RORO shipping is usually the most cost-effective option.
✈️ Get a Free Quote Today
Ready to ship your vehicle by air? Here’s what we’ll need to get started:
📧 Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Phone: +1 (678) 528-5794
At All TransportDepot Inc., we ensure premium service for safe, secure, and reliable car air shipping worldwide.
👉 Don’t wait—Get Your Free Quote Now
Ryan is an experienced truck driver at Lone Star Auto Transport. He’s logged thousands of miles, safely delivering vehicles across the vast expanse of Texas and beyond. His commitment to on-time deliveries and vehicle care is unmatched.