How can I transport my car to the DR?

[Danie Miller]

I am moving to the island next year. I have heard that it is extremely expensive to purchase a car there since they are all imported. Therefore I would like to somehow transport my car to the island. Does anyone know how I can do that? Is it possible to board the car on a freight ship from Miami or somewhere and have it shipped to the DR? How much would it cost? Any info. and/or phone numbers would be appreciated!!! Do I risk having problems with customs releasing it to me once it is there? Also, are there any ships (other than cruise liners) that transport PEOPLE from Miami or another US city to the Dom. Rep?

 

[generalzz]

The most economical way to transport the car is to go directly to the steamship line. Ocean carriers in Miami that have direct service both to Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata are Seaboard Marine, Anitllean Marine, Crowley, Tropical Shipping and Sea Land Service. Seaboard, Crowley and Antillean are the first choices. I have not checked the costs recently but your ocean freight should not be more then USD $500, but probably less. Check information (305-555-1212)with the telephone company or surf the web. All the carriers have websites and you could get their office information this way.

The big trick is getting the car out of DR Customs. You will probably want to go with a Dominican Customs House Broker to assist in this matter. They know the ins and outs of dealing with Customs (Aduana). Likewise, when speaking with the customer service departments of the steamship companies ask them for the information. They have it all and do not forget to ask for the name, etc of their DR offices.

The DR ports are corrupt so there is the possiblity of a bad experience. This is why I recommend you use a a Dominican Customs House Broker. If you go in by yourself you will be an outstanding target. Make sure your car is stripped cleaned of anything of value. As a comment, Santo Domingo has a way to many cars so make sure the government is allowing imports of your particular used vehicle at the time you plan to ship.

Good Luck and keep your guard up. General ZZ

 

[noelle]

I have been living in the D.R. for 10 years and have heard about lots of people talking about importing a car. I always suggest that you buy it here... you know exactly how much it cost. Customs.. well depending on the day... cloudy or sunny... this is what it costs you to get the vehicle out of customs... I firmly recommend you buy here and sleep tight.... Should you wish to discuss more, please e-mail Sofy's B&B

 

[Keith Murphy]

Don't even think about bringing a car!!! We had purchased a car to import, a 98 Malibu, and found out later that it would cost $8,000US for just the "legitimate" charge to bail the car out of customs. We can't even begin to imagine, from the horror stories we've heard what other difficulties one might encounter. You will pay more for a car here, but far less than if you bring one. There are legitimate dealers here both new and used.

We recently moved to Puerto Plata and love it. We bought a car in Santiago that suits us just fine.

If you would like more information, please feel free to e-mail me.

Regards, Keith Murphy