Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Ankara to San Salvador

Shipping a car from the U.S. to El Salvador costs between $1,000 and $3,000, not including import duties and taxes. Import duties can range from 1% to 30% of the car's value, based on factors like engine type and age, plus a 13% value-added tax (VAT).

El Salvador enforces strict guidelines on vehicle imports to maintain safety and environmental standards. As of 2025, the country permits the importation of light vehicles manufactured from 2017 onwards. Heavy passenger vehicles must be 2015 or newer, and heavy cargo vehicles must be 2010 or newer.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but for long cross-country moves, the cost difference shrinks, and shipping often becomes more cost-effective when factoring in gas, food, lodging, wear-and-tear, and time, making it worth paying a carrier to avoid the hassle and expense of a long solo trip, though driving saves on carrier fees but adds travel time and costs.