Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Panama City 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).

The 8-Year Maximum Age Rule Standard Age Limitation: El Salvador enforces a maximum age limit of 8 years for most imported vehicles, calculated from the vehicle's manufacture date to the current year. For example, in 2025, vehicles manufactured in 2017 or later typically qualify for import consideration.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances (under 500 miles), but for long cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles), shipping can become comparable or even cheaper when factoring in your time, food, lodging, and significant vehicle wear-and-tear, making driving less cost-effective despite lower upfront gas costs. The decision balances direct fuel savings against the hidden costs and time commitment of a long drive, with shipping offering convenience and preserving your car's mileage and condition.