Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky to Frankfurt

The average cost to ship a car from the US to Germany is between $900 and $1300 plus applicable duty fees and taxes. Any car less than 30 years old will be subject to a 10% import duty and a 19% value-added tax (VAT) upon arrival in Germany, though these may be waived at the discretion of the customs official.

The cheapest kind of international car shipping is a RORO vessel. This shipping method is often more affordable for shipping cars than containers or air freight. However, it also leaves your vehicle more susceptible to damage during transport to your final destination.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but shipping can become comparable or even better for very long trips, especially when factoring in the hidden costs of driving like time off work, wear and tear, potential breakdowns, lodging, food, and tolls. Driving saves on direct shipping fees but adds indirect costs, while shipping costs more upfront but preserves your time and vehicle's condition, making the "cheaper" option depend heavily on your personal financial situation and priorities.