Vehicle Transport into New York: Difficult but Worth the Effort

Shipping a vehicle into New York State involves many legalities and obstacles that can stump even the most patient driver.

First of all, if you are moving into Manhattan, consider that you will be moving your car into one of the most famously congested cities in the world. Average monthly parking costs run over $270 per month, and few apartment houses and condominiums offer parking facilities. Not only that, but New York has been considering a special "congestion tax" similar to the one enacted in London some years ago, which would only make it more costly to own a car in Manhattan.

The Value of Owning a Car in New York City

But none of that stops New Yorkers from wanting to own a car in New York City. In fact, many New Yorkers who seem to have it all - beautiful apartments, great views, access to theaters and restaurants - find that the one thing they truly crave is car ownership. There is no better way to get out of the city and visit Massachusetts, Connecticut, Upstate New York, or Long Island on the weekends than to own your own car.

That's why transporting your own car into New York State is still an unbeatable deal.

Importing from Canada

If you are moving into New York from Canada, you should be aware of the fact that you will be importing across international borders and will need to deal with customs and duties.

As for Customs documentation, you will need to show the shipper's or carrier's bill of lading, bill of sale, Canadian registration, and all other legal documents pertaining to the vehicle. Because the U.S. is increasingly becoming concerned with environmental initiatives, you will need to make sure that you have approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicating that the vehicle meets U.S. emission requirements. Generally, vehicles manufactured in Canada or the U.S. within the last 15 years will pass emissions tests, but you will never know for certain until you undertake testing.

The Excellent New York and New Jersey Port System

New York State also has an old, established port system concentrated in the southern part of the state (servicing the Atlantic Ocean) and on Lakes Erie and Ontario. Because the New York Port Authority is combined with that of its neighboring state, New Jersey, it is just as possible that your vehicle may come through the Bayonne or Jersey City (NJ) seaports.

New York Climate and Road Conditions

Many newcomers transporting their autos into New York State are unprepared for the intense climactic conditions which affect the road system and consequently their vehicles. New York City itself has experienced temperatures as low as -18 degrees F, and record snowfalls as high as 26.9 inches. Remember that New York City is located in the southern part of the state. In Upstate New York, temperatures are so severe as to warrant special precautions such as snow-chains, studded tires, and engine warmers. This is in addition to usual low-temperature precautions such as annual checks for antifreeze and hose and line connections.

Summary: Import Vehicle to New York Worth the Work

Don't be discouraged by the minor obstacles to vehicle transportation into New York. It is extremely expensive to buy and rent vehicles in New York, so in the long-term it will be worth your while to move your car into New York, whether across state or international boundaries.