How to Move Your Vehicle from Colombia to Panama. Many travelers exploring North and South America with their vehicles are surprised to learn they can’t simply drive across the border between Panama and Colombia. The Darien Gap, a roadless stretch of jungle and mountains, stands in the way. But fear not! You can still transport your car by ferry or ship.
It is possible to transport a vehicle to Panama by crossing the border from Colombia. You can do this by shipping it from Cartagena using a maritime cargo service.
There are several options you can choose to Move Your Vehicle from Colombia to Panama:
- 40-foot Shared Container: This measures 2.35 meters high x 12 meters long x 4 meters wide. It can accommodate two vehicles (cars), in other words, you share the costs with another client. The approximate price is USD 2000, if you share the container it would be half, approximately USD 1000.
- 20-foot Individual Container: If you cannot share a container, you will have to use this option, which is more expensive. The approximate price is USD 1800.
- Roro or Roll On – Roll Off: If the vehicle is very large or is a motorcycle, it will have to be transported as loose cargo. This option is cheaper than the previous ones but is also less secure. You will have to hand over the keys to your vehicle and no one will be responsible if anything is stolen. It is recommended not to leave anything of value in the vehicle. The approximate cost is USD 700, the price varies per square meter.
Please note:
- All these costs for transporting a vehicle to Panama do not include customs or port procedures.
- These are estimated costs, not exact.
Additional Information:
- You will need to provide the following documents for customs clearance:
- Passport
- Vehicle title
- Bill of lading
- Commercial invoice
- You will also need to pay import duties and taxes.
Panama Vehicle Importation Process
1: Locate Your Vehicle
- Upon arrival in Panama, locate your vehicle at the port in the province of Colón.
2: Obtain Insurance
- To drive on Panamanian roads, you must have at least third-party insurance.
- The cost of insurance varies depending on coverage, starting at USD 20 per month.
3: Pay the Bill of Landing
- Go to the office of the shipping company responsible for transporting your vehicle and pay the Bill of Landing.
- The approximate cost is USD 30.
4: Clear Customs
- Go to the Colón Customs office to complete the necessary paperwork.
5: Reclaim Your Vehicle
- To reclaim your vehicle, present your Bill of Landing at the shipping company’s office and pay the corresponding amount.
- The approximate cost is USD 120.
Step 6: Fumigation
- Pay approximately USD 6 for vehicle fumigation.
Total Estimated Cost: USD 200