Short answer: You usually ship a vehicle to Chile by RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): the roadworthy vehicle is driven onto the ship in Hamburg and unloaded on the west coast of South America, in Iquique or San Antonio. According to the ODS website, the transit time is around 25 to 35 days. Chile restricts the import of second-hand cars, although there are exceptions, including via free zones. You should therefore check the import requirements before booking. ODS Orient has its own offices in Santiago and Iquique, where staff are on hand to assist you.
The key points in 5 points
- RoRo is the standard for roadworthy cars, vans and lorries bound for Chile.
- Two ports of call: Iquique in the north, San Antonio in central Chile.
- Transit time: approx. 25–35 days from Hamburg, depending on the ship and rotation.
- Clarify import regulations in advance: Restrictions apply to second-hand vehicles.
- ODS on site: Our own office in Santiago/Iquique with dedicated points of contact.
Which ports are important in Chile?
Iquique and San Antonio are particularly of interest for vehicles. Iquique is situated in the north of the country and is known for the ZOFRI free trade zone. San Antonio is a major port on the Pacific coast, not far from Santiago. Which port is right for you depends on the vehicle, the recipient and the import requirements.
What is the route from Hamburg, and how long does it take?
From Hamburg, the journey takes you across the Atlantic, through the Panama Canal or round South America to the Pacific coast. According to the ODS website, the transit time is around 25 to 35 days; pre- and post-carriage times are added to this. You can find basic information on routes, customs and procedures for the entire region in our article on Shipment to the west coast of South America.
What types of vehicles can you ship to Chile?
Roadworthy cars, vans and lorries are loaded on board via RoRo. Vehicles or machinery that are not roadworthy are secured on flat racks or shipped in containers. ODS Orient has been in business since 1974 and will work with you to determine the most suitable method of loading.
What are the rules for importing second-hand cars into Chile?
Chile has import restrictions on second-hand vehicles. Exceptions apply, amongst other things, via free zones such as the one in Iquique. The rules that apply in each individual case depend on the vehicle, its age and the recipient, and are subject to change. It is therefore essential that you check the requirements before booking, ideally together with your recipient and us.
What documents do you need?
The key documents are the commercial invoice, the bill of lading and the vehicle documents. An electronic export declaration is also required for exports from Germany; further information is available from Customs at Export of goods (ATLAS export declaration). Our guide explains how the commercial invoice, title, B/L and telex release work together Customs and documentation for RoRo.
What are the advantages of the ODS sites in Santiago and Iquique?
ODS Orient has its own offices in Santiago and Iquique. This means short transport distances and local contacts who are familiar with the port, collection and procedures in the destination country.
FAQ
Which ports in Chile are called at?
Iquique and San Antonio are the main destinations for vehicles.
How long does it take for a shipment to reach Chile?
According to the ODS website, transit time is around 25 to 35 days. Pre- and post-carriage times are in addition to this.
Am I allowed to import a second-hand vehicle into Chile?
Chile restricts the import of second-hand cars; exceptions are available, for example, through free trade zones. Make sure you check the conditions before booking.
What is the Iquique Free Trade Zone?
The Zona Franca de Iquique (ZOFRI) is a free trade zone in northern Chile. You should check in advance which rules apply to your vehicle there.
Is RoRo or container shipping better?
For roadworthy vehicles, RoRo is usually the simplest solution. Containers or flat racks are suitable for non-roadworthy cargo.
Does ODS Orient have any contacts in Chile?
Yes, ODS Orient has its own offices in Santiago and Iquique, with local contacts.
All the information in this article has been carefully researched, but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the timeliness, accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Please contact us directly for a no-obligation quote.
