RORO Shipping to Iquique Chile offers a highly efficient, reliable, and often the most economical method for transporting your car from the USA directly to the Port of Iquique. This specialized service is ideally suited for wheeled vehicles, providing a straightforward and secure pathway for international automotive logistics.
When you choose to ship your vehicle to Iquique, Chile, All Transport Depot becomes your dedicated partner. Our extensive experience in global shipping ensures that your vehicle’s journey is managed with precision, leading to its safe and timely arrival. Entrusting All Transport Depot with your RORO Shipping to Iquique Chile means relying on a team that thoroughly understands the specific requirements and intricate procedures involved in importing vehicles into Chile, particularly concerning the unique Free Zone (ZOFRI) regulations that apply in Iquique.
Understanding RORO Shipping: Your Vehicle’s Journey Explained
RORO shipping, an acronym for “Roll-On/Roll-Off,” describes the method of transporting vehicles with wheels by driving them directly onto and off a purpose-built ship. This process begins when you deliver your vehicle to a designated origin port in the USA. Expert crews then drive the vehicle onto the RORO vessel and secure it for its ocean voyage. Upon arrival at the destination port, such as Iquique, the vehicle is simply driven off, making RORO a preferred choice for international vehicle transport due to its efficiency and direct handling.
Why RORO is Ideal for Chile Vehicle Imports
RORO shipping presents clear advantages for vehicles destined for Chile. This method eliminates the need for large cranes or complex container packing, which not only saves time but also significantly reduces the potential for damage during transit. Professional maritime crews expertly drive vehicles onto the ship and meticulously secure them, ensuring stable and safe transportation across the ocean. This direct operational approach often leads to faster delivery times compared to alternative shipping methods that involve more handling stages.
- Minimal handling reduces the risk of damage.
- Often provides quicker transit times and fixed schedules.
- Represents excellent value for standard cars and trucks.
Our RORO Process for Iquique Shipments
Our RORO shipping process is designed to provide a seamless experience for your vehicle. You start by bringing your car to one of our specified departure ports in the USA. Our skilled team conducts a thorough pre-shipment inspection, carefully documenting your vehicle’s condition. Next, your car is driven onto the RORO vessel and securely fastened for its international voyage. Upon reaching the Port of Iquique, our local representatives facilitate the efficient offloading. Your vehicle then enters the necessary customs clearance and local inspection processes, particularly those related to ZOFRI, before it can be released to you.
- We conduct a detailed pre-shipment inspection.
- We ensure your vehicle is securely stowed on the vessel.
- Our agents provide support for local procedures at Iquique, including ZOFRI.
Vehicles Transported via RORO
RORO vessels are versatile and capable of accommodating a broad spectrum of wheeled vehicles and equipment for transport to Iquique, Chile, including:
- Standard Passenger Vehicles: Sedans, SUVs, coupes, and minivans.
- Commercial & Utility Vehicles: Vans, trucks, and specialized work vehicles.
- Motorcycles & Recreational Vehicles: Motorbikes, ATVs, and small trailers.
- Buses: Various sizes of passenger buses.
- Heavy Machinery: Construction equipment like excavators, bulldozers, and agricultural tractors.
Why Select All Transport Depot for Your Iquique Shipment?
Choosing a proficient shipping partner for your vehicle’s journey to Iquique, Chile is a critical decision. All Transport Depot provides reliable and punctual RORO services to South American destinations. Our commitment to outstanding customer satisfaction, combined with our deep expertise in global vehicle shipping, positions us as a highly trusted choice for sending vehicles to Chile.
Expertise in South American Shipping
Our team possesses significant experience with the unique complexities of shipping to Chilean ports, including Iquique and its Free Zone. We have an in-depth understanding of the Port of Iquique’s operations and have cultivated strong relationships with local agents and customs brokers who are well-versed in ZOFRI regulations. This ensures that all processes, from the USA departure port to your car’s arrival, run efficiently. Our specialized knowledge is invaluable in anticipating and mitigating potential issues, thereby expediting the entire procedure, especially given the specific import regulations and local customs requirements.
- We have extensive knowledge of Chilean import requirements, particularly for Iquique/ZOFRI.
- We work with reliable local partners in Iquique.
- We proactively address challenges for smooth shipments.
Transparent and Competitive Pricing
We are dedicated to transparent pricing for RORO shipping services to Iquique, Chile. All Transport Depot offers highly competitive rates without compromising on the quality of our service. Our price quotes explicitly detail all anticipated costs, ensuring you will not encounter hidden fees. We provide exceptional value, helping you manage your budget effectively for your vehicle’s international journey.
- No hidden charges are added.
- Our pricing offers excellent value for service.
- Clear cost breakdowns aid in financial planning.
Dedicated Customer Support
We prioritize clear communication and personalized assistance throughout your entire shipping experience. Our committed customer support team keeps you fully informed at every stage of the process, providing timely updates and promptly addressing any questions or concerns you may have. We work diligently to make your RORO shipping experience to Iquique as seamless and stress-free as possible.
- Our team is responsive and highly informed.
- We provide consistent updates on your shipment’s progress.
- We offer tailored support to meet your specific needs.
Your Car’s Arrival Point: The Port of Iquique, Chile (and ZOFRI)
Upon its arrival in Chile, your vehicle will enter the Port of Iquique, which is a crucial maritime hub and directly linked to the ZOFRI (Zona Franca de Iquique – Iquique Free Zone). This unique status has significant implications for vehicle imports. The Port of Iquique efficiently manages the offloading of vehicles and initiates the essential customs and inspection procedures, often influenced by whether the vehicle is destined for ZOFRI or direct entry into Chile proper.
Port of Iquique and ZOFRI: Chile’s Strategic Import Gateway
The Port of Iquique is a major port on Chile’s northern coast, serving not only Chile but also acting as a key transit point for landlocked Bolivia and Paraguay. Its proximity to ZOFRI makes it particularly important for vehicle imports.
- ZOFRI’s Role: ZOFRI is a tax-free zone where goods, including vehicles, can be imported, stored, manufactured, and exported without incurring standard Chilean import duties, VAT, or other taxes, as long as they remain within the zone. This has traditionally made Iquique a hub for used car imports, though strict rules apply if the vehicle is to leave ZOFRI and enter the rest of Chile.
- Facilities: The port features comprehensive facilities for efficient vehicle handling, advanced logistical systems, and direct access to the ZOFRI complex and the broader Chilean road network.
Retrieving Your Vehicle from the Port/ZOFRI
After your RORO vessel docks at the Port of Iquique, our local agents will guide you through the subsequent necessary steps. The process will differ significantly depending on whether your vehicle is destined:
- For ZOFRI only: If the car is to remain within the Free Zone for resale or re-export, the customs procedures are simplified, and duties/taxes are deferred or eliminated while in ZOFRI.
- For Definitive Import into Chile: If the car is to leave ZOFRI and be registered for use in the rest of Chile, it will undergo full customs clearance, homologation, and all applicable duties and taxes will be levied. This is where most regulations and costs apply.
You will need to settle all applicable port charges and confirm that all required import documents (and ZOFRI-specific documents, if applicable) are in meticulous order. We provide clear instructions and comprehensive support to facilitate your car’s smooth transition from the port to your possession, whether inside or outside ZOFRI.
- We assist with coordination among port, customs, and ZOFRI authorities.
- We provide clear, step-by-step instructions for vehicle pickup.
- We help navigate local procedures upon your car’s arrival, especially those related to ZOFRI.
Essential Documentation for RORO Shipping to Iquique, Chile
To ensure your RORO car shipment to Iquique, Chile, clears customs without issue, you must prepare a comprehensive set of documents. Specific regulations apply to vehicle eligibility, emissions, and import permits, particularly if the vehicle is intended for definitive import out of ZOFRI.
- Original Bill of Lading (BOL): Your primary shipping contract.
- Original Certificate of Title / Certificate of Origin: Indispensable proof of your vehicle’s ownership.
- Commercial Invoice or Bill of Sale: Details the vehicle’s value, purchase transaction, and a full description (make, model, VIN, year, engine size).
- Passport Copy: For importer identity verification.
- Chilean RUT (Rol Único Tributario) or ID number: Required for customs clearance.
- Homologation Certificate (Certificado de Homologación): For vehicles entering Chile proper, this certificate verifies that the vehicle meets Chilean emissions and safety standards. This can be a complex and costly process. Without it, the car cannot be registered.
- Power of Attorney (Poder Notarial): Authorizing a customs agent (Agente de Aduanas) to act on your behalf. This is mandatory for imports exceeding a certain value.
- Fumigation Certificate: For agricultural/biological inspection, particularly important for vehicles that have been in certain areas.
Proof of Insurance Certificate: For transit (advised).
- Specific documents for special import regimes:
- Returning Chilean Citizens: If applicable, documentation proving residency abroad for specific periods (usually 1 year or more), to qualify for “menaje de casa” (household goods) exemptions, which can include one vehicle, often with reduced duties. This typically involves a “Certificado de Viajes.”
- Foreigners with Temporary/Permanent Residency: New vehicles may be imported, but full duties and taxes apply.
- Diplomatic Personnel: Specific exemptions apply with proper diplomatic accreditation.
Navigating Chilean Customs and Car Import Regulations: A Detailed Guide
Importing a car into Iquique, Chile, is governed by strict regulations from the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (National Customs Service) and the Ministerio de Transportes y Telecomunicaciones. A thorough understanding of these rules, particularly regarding vehicle eligibility, homologation, and taxation, is paramount for a successful import, especially given Iquique’s status as a Free Zone (ZOFRI).
Key Regulations and Associated Taxes (General Chile vs. ZOFRI)
Chile enforces specific rules concerning vehicle imports. It is critical to distinguish between importing a vehicle into ZOFRI and importing it definitively into Chile proper (outside ZOFRI).
1. General Import Regulations (for use outside ZOFRI, in Chile proper):
- Used Vehicle Prohibition: Chile generally prohibits the import of used vehicles for definitive entry into the country.
- Key Exceptions:
- Returning Chilean Citizens: Chilean citizens who have resided abroad for a continuous period (usually 1 year or more, without exceeding a certain number of days in Chile during that period) may be permitted to import one used vehicle as part of their “menaje de casa” (household goods) with customs benefits (reduced or deferred duties). The vehicle must typically be registered in their name for a minimum period (e.g., 6 months to 1 year) prior to import.
- Classic/Historic Vehicles: Vehicles over 30 years old meeting specific criteria may be allowed.
- Vehicles for Diplomatic Personnel/International Organizations: Exemptions apply.
- Vehicles for persons with disabilities: Specific concessions may apply.
- Key Exceptions:
- Age Limit for New Vehicles: For new vehicles, there isn’t a strict “age limit” as in some countries, but they must be “new.”
- Left-Hand Drive (LHD) Requirement: Chile drives on the right, so only Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are generally allowed for definitive import and registration.
- Homologation (Emissions & Safety): All vehicles definitively imported into Chile must undergo a homologation process (Certificado de Homologación) to prove they meet Chilean environmental (emissions) and safety standards. This is a complex and often costly procedure conducted by certified laboratories in Chile. Without this certificate, the vehicle cannot be registered for use in Chile.
Taxes and Duties (for Definitive Import):
- Customs Duty (Arancel Aduanero): Generally 6% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value.
- Value Added Tax (IVA – Impuesto al Valor Agregado): 19% calculated on the CIF value plus the Customs Duty.
- “Green Tax” (Impuesto Verde): A tax based on the vehicle’s CO2 emissions and fuel efficiency. This applies to new light passenger and commercial vehicles.
- Luxury Tax/Specific Taxes: Vehicles with engine capacities exceeding 1,500 cm³ and a high value may face an additional “luxury surcharge” (historically around 85% of CIF value over a certain threshold, though this can vary and needs verification).
- Returning Chilean Citizens’ Benefit: While still paying taxes, they receive a significant reduction compared to standard imports. The tax base for their vehicle is calculated after depreciation for use.
2. Iquique Free Zone (ZOFRI) Specific Rules:
- Tax Exemption within ZOFRI: Vehicles imported into ZOFRI are exempt from import duties, VAT, and other taxes as long as they remain within the fenced ZOFRI area. This facilitates a large trade in used vehicles, primarily destined for re-export to neighboring countries (Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru) or for sale within the ZOFRI zone itself.
- No Age Limit within ZOFRI: Historically, vehicles of any age could be imported into ZOFRI for sale or re-export.
- Leaving ZOFRI for Chile Proper: If a vehicle initially imported into ZOFRI is subsequently intended for definitive entry into Chile’s national territory (i.e., outside ZOFRI), it must then comply with all standard Chilean import regulations described above (including age limits, LHD, and homologation), and all applicable duties and taxes will be applied. The prohibition on used vehicle imports generally applies when leaving ZOFRI for the rest of Chile, with the exception of returning Chilean citizens. This means a non-Chilean resident cannot simply buy an older used car in ZOFRI and import it into Chile.
Key Takeaways:
- Used vehicle imports are generally prohibited in Chile proper, except for specific exemptions (e.g., returning citizens, classic cars).
- ZOFRI allows used car imports, but for use within the Free Zone or for re-export. Bringing a ZOFRI-imported used car into Chile proper is restricted.
- Homologation is mandatory for all vehicles entering Chile proper.
- Expect significant taxes (6% Duty + 19% IVA + Green Tax/Surcharge) for definitive imports.
- LHD is required for definitive import.
Post-Arrival Customs and Clearance Procedures
Once your vehicle arrives at the Port of Iquique, the multi-stage customs clearance process commences:
- Engage a Customs Agent (Agente de Aduanas): For imports exceeding a certain value, this is mandatory. Your agent will manage complex paperwork, duty calculation, and coordination with authorities.
- Customs Declaration (Declaración de Importación): The agent prepares and submits this to the Servicio Nacional de Aduanas, detailing the vehicle’s information and intended use (ZOFRI or definitive import).
- Physical Inspection: Customs and potentially the SAG (Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero) for biosecurity will inspect the vehicle.
- Homologation (if definitive import): If the vehicle is for use in Chile proper, it must undergo homologation. This can involve testing at a certified laboratory to verify emissions and safety standards. This is often the longest and most costly part of the process.
- Duty and Tax Assessment & Payment: Once the vehicle is valued and homologated (if applicable), all assessed duties, IVA, green tax, and other fees are paid to Customs.
- Release from Customs: Upon payment and successful clearance, a release order is issued.
- Port Authority & Gate Pass: Settle any port charges (storage, handling) with the Iquique Port Authority to obtain a gate pass.
- Vehicle Registration (if definitive import): After clearing customs, you must register the vehicle with the local Registro Civil e Identificación and obtain Chilean license plates. This step is dependent on successful homologation.
- Mandatory: Use a licensed Chilean customs agent.
- Critical: Complete Homologation for definitive import.
- Be prepared for potentially high taxes and a thorough process.
- Clarify ZOFRI vs. definitive import purpose upfront.
RORO Shipping Costs to Iquique, Chile: A Financial Overview
The total expenditure for RORO shipping to Iquique, Chile, is influenced by several critical factors: your vehicle’s type and size, the USA departure port, the chosen shipping line, and current fuel prices. However, the most substantial financial component will invariably be the Chilean import taxes and duties (if entering Chile proper), along with post-arrival compliance and homologation costs. Understanding these elements is essential for accurate budgeting for your car’s journey.
Primary Shipping Costs and Influencing Factors
The base price for RORO Shipping to Iquique Chile primarily depends on your vehicle’s dimensions. Larger vehicles require more space on the ship, leading to higher costs. USA ports with direct services to the Pacific Coast of South America (e.g., from Houston, New Orleans, or even West Coast ports) will be common.
- Your vehicle’s dimensions (length, width, height, weight) directly impact the cost.
- The specific USA port of departure (often Gulf or East Coast for better rates to South America).
- Fluctuations in fuel prices (affecting bunker adjustment factors/surcharges) and currency exchange rates.
- Approximate costs for RORO from the USA can range from $1,500 to $4,000+ USD, depending on these variables.
Additional Costs You May Incur in Chile
Beyond the fundamental shipping fee, you will face various other charges when importing a vehicle, particularly if it’s destined for definitive entry into Chile proper. These costs are often significant:
- USA Port Charges: Fees for vehicle handling, documentation, and security at the USA departure port.
- Iquique Port Charges: Costs incurred at the Port of Iquique for handling, potential short-term storage (demurrage if clearance is delayed), and vehicle release.
- Customs Agent Fees (Agente de Aduanas): Mandatory for imports above a certain value, these fees can be substantial, often a percentage of the vehicle’s CIF value, plus fixed charges.
Chilean Import Taxes (for definitive import): As detailed previously:
- Customs Duty: 6% of CIF value.
- IVA (VAT): 19% of (CIF value + Customs Duty).
- Green Tax/Luxury Surcharge: Applied based on emissions and/or engine size/value.
- These taxes can collectively range from 25% to well over 100% of the vehicle’s CIF value, depending on type and specific circumstances (e.g., returning citizen vs. standard import).
- Homologation Costs: This can be a significant expense, potentially ranging from several hundred to over a thousand US dollars, depending on the vehicle type and required testing.
- Mandatory Cleaning/Fumigation (if applicable): If your vehicle is found to have any contaminants (dirt, pests), compulsory cleaning or fumigation will be carried out at your expense by SAG (Agricultural and Livestock Service). This is very common for used vehicles.
- Local Registration and Licensing Fees: Costs for registering your vehicle and obtaining Chilean license plates.
- Inland Transport Costs: If you require transport from the Port of Iquique to your final destination in Chile.
Always demand a detailed, itemized price quote that clearly lists all these potential costs. This transparency helps prevent financial surprises, but be prepared for duties, taxes, and compliance expenses to form the largest portion of your total import cost, especially if the vehicle is not remaining in ZOFRI.
- Ensure all USA and Iquique port fees are included.
- Factor in fuel surcharges and currency fluctuations.
- Allocate a large budget for Chilean import taxes (Duty, IVA, Green Tax, Surcharge) if for definitive import.
- Account for mandatory Customs Agent fees, Homologation, and local registration.
Insurance for Your Vehicle’s Transit
We strongly advise securing comprehensive shipping insurance for your vehicle’s RORO journey. While RORO is a highly secure method, unforeseen events can occur. Insurance protects your financial investment against potential damage or loss during its ocean crossing. You can typically select your desired level of coverage based on your vehicle’s declared value.
- Safeguard your vehicle with adequate shipping insurance.
- Understand the various coverage options available.
- Carefully review the terms and conditions of your insurance policy.
Iquique-Bound: Why RORO Often Outperforms Container Shipping
When transporting a vehicle to Iquique, Chile, RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping is frequently the more practical and often more economical solution compared to traditional container shipping. RORO’s specialized design and operational efficiency offer distinct advantages for vehicle transportation.
Cost Efficiency
RORO generally proves to be more cost-effective than container shipping for vehicles. You avoid the additional expenses associated with container rental, as well as the labor-intensive processes of packing and unpacking your car within a sealed container. Since vehicles are driven directly onto the ship and secured on open decks, fewer personnel and materials are required. This streamlined approach contributes to RORO being a more economical choice for international vehicle transport.
- Eliminates container rental and handling fees.
- Reduces labor costs for loading and unloading.
- Transparent pricing often leads to fewer unexpected charges.
Expedited and Smoother Operations
RORO vessels are engineered for the rapid loading and unloading of vehicles. Cars simply drive on and off using integrated ramps, significantly accelerating port operations and reducing ship turnaround times. Your vehicle’s overall transit time is often quicker compared to container shipping, which demands more time for crane operations and specialized handling equipment.
- Facilitates swift loading and offloading.
- Minimizes waiting times in ports.
- Reduced handling decreases the potential for damage.
Versatility for Vehicle Types and Inspections
RORO offers superior flexibility for accommodating a wide array of vehicle types and sizes. Unlike containers with fixed dimensions, RORO ships can transport everything from compact cars to large trucks, buses, and even oversized construction machinery. This makes RORO a highly versatile option for virtually any self-propelled vehicle. Furthermore, the accessible nature of RORO can often facilitate Chilean customs and SAG (Agricultural and Livestock Service) inspections.
- Accommodates vehicles of diverse sizes.
- Capable of transporting very large wheeled equipment.
- Aids in more efficient customs and agricultural inspections.
Essential Tips for a Successful RORO Shipment to Iquique, Chile
To ensure a smooth and stress-free RORO shipping experience to Iquique, Chile, meticulous planning and strict adherence to regulations are paramount. Following these critical tips will help ensure your car import proceeds efficiently and without unnecessary complications.
Master Your Documentation and Understand ZOFRI/Chilean Rules (CRITICAL!)
Having all your documentation accurately prepared and complete is absolutely crucial. Double-check every single form: your Bill of Lading, original car title, commercial invoice, and passport copies. Crucially, fully understand if your vehicle qualifies for import into Chile proper (e.g., as a returning citizen’s benefit) or if it can only remain in ZOFRI. Be acutely aware of Chile’s strict prohibition on most used vehicle imports, the LHD requirement, and the mandatory homologation process for definitive entry. Any errors or omissions will inevitably lead to significant delays, substantial fines, or even the refusal of entry or forced re-export of your vehicle. Keep multiple copies, both digital and physical, of all your documents.
- Ensure every document is precise and fully completed.
- Confirm your vehicle’s eligibility for definitive import into Chile proper.
- Thoroughly understand the prohibition on used vehicles, LHD requirement, and Homologation process.
- Maintain multiple copies (digital and hard) of all paperwork.
Prepare Your Vehicle Meticulously (This is Critical!)
Before shipping, you must meticulously prepare your vehicle. Remove all personal items and valuables from the interior. Chilean customs officials, and especially the SAG (Agricultural and Livestock Service), conduct extremely thorough inspections. The discovery of personal belongings or foreign contaminants (like soil, plant matter) will result in significant delays, hefty fines, or even the refusal of entry for your vehicle. Ensure your car has minimal fuel—just enough to drive on and off the ship (approximately a quarter tank). Inspect for and rectify any fluid leaks, as shipping companies enforce strict rules against them. Crucially, thoroughly clean the entire vehicle, inside and out, including the undercarriage, to prevent biosecurity issues.
- Completely empty your car of all personal belongings and valuables.
- Ensure fuel level is minimal (around 1/4 tank).
- Resolve any fluid leaks to comply with shipping standards.
- Thoroughly clean the vehicle, especially the undercarriage, to prevent biosecurity issues.
Select a Reputable Shipping Company and Engage a Mandatory Local Broker
Choosing a shipping company with a proven track record is vital, particularly for destinations with specific and sometimes complex regulations like Chile and the ZOFRI. Select a company with extensive experience in successful RORO shipments to South America. A reliable company will offer transparent communication, fair pricing, and expert guidance. Crucially, engaging a trustworthy and experienced Chilean customs agent (Agente de Aduanas) is essential to effectively navigate the intricate import process, calculate taxes, coordinate with the various government agencies, and manage the homologation process upon arrival.
- Verify the shipping company’s extensive experience with RORO to Chile.
- Look for transparent pricing and comprehensive service offerings.
- Partner with a reliable local Chilean customs agent before your vehicle ships.
Common Questions About RORO Shipping to Iquique, Chile
What does RORO Shipping Mean?
RORO shipping means Roll-On/Roll-Off shipping. It is a method of transporting vehicles with wheels by driving them directly onto and off a specialized vessel using integrated ramps.
How Does RORO Shipping Work for Iquique?
For Iquique, you deliver your car to a designated USA port where it’s driven onto the RORO ship and secured. Upon arrival at the Port of Iquique, local customs officials conduct inspections. Our local agents (or your customs agent) assist with the offloading and guide you through the necessary clearance steps, including payment of duties/taxes (if for definitive import) and homologation, before the vehicle is released to you.
What are the Main Advantages of RORO Shipping to Iquique Chile?
The primary advantages of RORO Shipping to Iquique Chile include its generally lower cost compared to container shipping, quick loading and unloading processes (leading to faster transit times), and its suitability for a wide variety of vehicle types. Its open deck structure also often facilitates customs and agricultural inspections.
How is RORO Shipping Different from Container Shipping for Chile?
RORO shipping involves vehicles driving directly onto the ship’s open decks. Container shipping, by contrast, places vehicles inside sealed metal containers. For Chile, RORO is typically more cost-effective and faster for running vehicles, while container shipping might be considered for non-operational vehicles or those requiring maximum security, though it is usually more expensive.
Can I Ship a Used Car to Iquique, Chile?
Generally, Chile prohibits the import of used vehicles for definitive entry into the national territory. Exceptions exist primarily for returning Chilean citizens (who can import one used vehicle under specific conditions) and classic/historic vehicles. However, you can import used vehicles into the Iquique Free Zone (ZOFRI) for storage, resale within ZOFRI, or re-export to other countries. If a vehicle imported into ZOFRI is later intended for use in Chile proper, it must meet all standard import requirements (including typically being new, or falling under an exemption like returning citizen).
Is My Car Insured During RORO Shipping?
Yes, you can purchase shipping insurance for your car during RORO transit. Most reputable shipping companies offer insurance options to protect your vehicle against potential damage or loss during its ocean journey. Given the value and complexity of importing, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended.
Can I Put Personal Items in My Car for RORO to Iquique?
Absolutely not. Due to strict security and customs regulations (especially by SAG), you must not leave any personal items or valuables inside your car when shipping with RORO. The discovery of personal belongings or contaminants will result in significant delays, substantial fines, or even the refusal of entry for your vehicle. Only factory-installed components and tools should remain within the car.
Does RORO Shipping to Iquique Include Door-to-Door Service?
RORO shipping typically provides port-to-port transportation. This means you will deliver your car to a specified USA departure port and collect it from the Port of Iquique. However, many shipping companies, including All Transport Depot, can arrange additional services such as inland transport (door-to-port or port-to-door delivery) for an extra charge.
Key Chilean Government Contacts for Car Import Inquiries
For specific and up-to-date information regarding car imports, duties, taxes, and regulations in Chile, especially concerning Iquique and ZOFRI, it is crucial to contact these official government bodies directly or consult with a licensed local customs agent (Agente de Aduanas).
Servicio Nacional de Aduanas (National Customs Service of Chile)
- Website: www.aduana.cl
- Contact/Information: Look for “Oficinas de Atención y Asistencia al Usuario” or “Contacto” sections on their website for regional offices (e.g., Aduana de Iquique) and general inquiry numbers.
- Role: The primary authority for customs clearance, valuation, collection of import duties, IVA, and other taxes. They also manage the physical inspection and release of vehicles.
Maria is the operations manager at SoCal Auto Movers, where she oversees the daily operations of their car shipping services. Her efficiency and problem-solving skills ensure that each shipment, whether local or long-distance, goes off without a hitch.