FAQ
Help Centre &
Help Centre &
FAQ
Complete answers to 18 popular questions about car shipping, documents, pricing and risks.
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Logistics • Documents • Pricing
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Car Shipping FAQ
How long does shipping to Sabah/Sarawak take?
On average, the voyage takes 7 to 14 days depending on the destination. Sailings to Kuching are usually faster than to Tawau or Sandakan. However, this is subject to the ship schedule and sea weather conditions.
Is my car placed in an open area?
For the RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) service, your vehicle is placed inside the enclosed, covered hold of the ship (like a multi-storey shopping mall car park). It is protected from sea water and the sun. If you choose an LCT (Barge), it may be exposed, but we rarely recommend LCT for passenger cars.
Can I ship a car that has been lowered/modified?
Yes, but you must inform us in advance. A car that is too low (lowered) risks scraping when driving up/down the ship's ramp. We may need to use additional equipment or advise using a container.
Is a Door-to-Door service available?
Yes, we provide a Door-to-Door service. We use a carrier truck (towing) to collect the car from your home in Peninsular Malaysia and deliver it to the port. At the destination, we can also arrange delivery directly to your home address.
How do I track my car's location?
We provide regular status updates via WhatsApp or email. You will be notified when: 1) The car is received at the yard, 2) The car is loaded onto the ship, 3) The ship departs, 4) The ship arrives, and 5) The car is ready for collection.
Is the ship schedule fixed every week?
Usually yes, there are weekly sailings from Port Klang. However, the actual date ('Estimated Time of Departure' - ETD) can shift by 1-2 days depending on port operations. We will provide the latest date at the time of booking.
What documents must I prepare?
The required documents are: 1) A copy of the owner's identity card, 2) A copy of the vehicle grant (VOC), 3) A bank release letter (if there is a loan). If the owner cannot attend in person, a letter of authorisation is also required.
My car still has a bank loan — can I ship it?
Yes. The MANDATORY requirement is to obtain a 'Letter of Authorisation to Bring a Vehicle to Sabah/Sarawak' from the bank branch where you took the loan. This process usually takes 3-5 working days depending on the bank.
Can I leave belongings inside the car?
The port and customs prohibit personal belongings inside a RoRo vehicle for safety reasons. Only a spare tyre, jack and tool kit are allowed. If you insist on leaving items, it is at your own risk (insurance does not cover lost belongings).
Do I need to be present when shipping the car?
Not necessarily. You can authorise anyone (family/friend) or use our towing service, as long as the complete documents have been submitted to us in advance.
Can a company car be shipped?
Yes. You need additional documents, namely: 1) A copy of the company's SSM registration, 2) A company authorisation letter (on company letterhead) signed by a Director permitting the vehicle to be shipped.
How long before the ship sails must I drop off the car?
We recommend dropping the car at the yard at least 3-4 working days before the ship's departure date. This allows time for the customs inspection and the ship manifest documentation.
What is the price difference between RoRo and Container?
RoRo is much cheaper (around RM1,600-RM2,000 for a sedan) because the ship space is shared. A container is exclusive (you rent one steel box), so the price can be 2-3 times higher, but it is safer and can carry belongings.
What does Marine Insurance cover?
'All-Risk' Marine Insurance protects your vehicle against total loss (ship sinking/fire) and physical damage that occurs while in our care. The coverage is subject to the market value of the vehicle.
What if the car is scratched on arrival?
Please inspect your vehicle immediately during collection at the port. If there is new damage that was not in the original report, take photos and inform our staff ON THE SPOT. Insurance claims must be made with immediate evidence.
Are there any hidden charges?
Our quote is 'Nett' for Port-to-Port, covering sea freight, terminal charges and basic documentation. Additional costs may apply if: 1) You collect the car late (storage fee), 2) The car cannot start (non-runner fee), 3) Customs duty (for certain cases).
How much deposit must I pay?
We usually require full payment or a deposit of at least 50% at booking to lock the ship slot. The balance must be settled before the Bill of Lading (BL) is issued.
Can a car with expired road tax be shipped?
It can be shipped by sea, BUT you cannot drive the car on public roads. You must use a towing truck to take it to the port and collect it from the port. The risk of a JPJ/Police summons is your own responsibility if you drive without road tax.
Official Sources
- Bank release letter for a financed car — hire purchase financing is regulated by Bank Negara Malaysia.
- Road tax, ownership & vehicle transfer — Road Transport Department (JPJ).
- Vehicle inspection — Puspakom.
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Hantar Kereta Trading
SSM: 202603144686 (IP0626439-K)