Kudos! So you’ve found the right buyer, the money looks good, and the car (or pickup, or even a forklift) is sitting shiny in the UAE sun. We shall take a look at the essential documents that are actually needed to export a vehicle from the UAE without delays or “sorry, shipment on hold” messages? Let’s guide you through the paperwork so that you can move the metal smoothly and flexibly from Abu Dhabi, Dubai,, or anywhere in the Emirates to the world.
The “must-have” list (and who issues what)
Let’s talk business. Think of these as your basic and important ingredients. If even one is missing, the stew doesn’t cook.
Vehicle Export Certificate (RTA/ADNOC equivalent)
This is your official deregistration for export—proof the vehicle is leaving the country. In Dubai you’ll handle it via RTA, in Abu Dhabi via ITC/AD Police systems. You can request export plates if you plan to drive to the port (with short-term road insurance). No export certificate = no customs export.
You’ll need: Emirates ID/passport, current registration card (Mulkiya), and if the car had finance, an NOC / loan clearance from the bank.
UAE Customs Export Declaration
Filed electronically (Dubai: Mirsal-2 / Dubai Trade, Abu Dhabi: MAMAR). This tells UAE Customs what’s leaving, where it’s going, and on which HS code. Your freight forwarder usually files it, but you (or your exporter) must provide accurate details: VIN/chassis, make/model/year, value, buyer, and origin/destination ports.
Commercial Invoice
Simple, but important. It should clearly state seller, buyer, vehicle description, VIN, year, condition (new/used), currency, price, and Incoterms (FOB, CFR, CIF… pick one and stick to it). If the vehicle is a gift or not-for-sale transfer, mark it and be ready with supporting evidence.
Packing List
Yes—even for cars. For a single vehicle, this is basically a spec sheet with dimensions (L×W×H), weight, and any loose accessories (spare wheels, tool kits, extra seats). For container loads (2–3 cars, or cars + parts), list each item and where it’s stowed.
Certificate Of Origin (COO)
Certificate of origin is endorsed and approved by the Chambers of Commerce (e.g. Abu Dhabi Chamber, Dubai Chamber)Many destinations use this to set duties or comply with local import rules. Your forwarder can arrange attestation if the buyer’s customs insists on it.
Bill of Lading (B/L)
Your ocean title document—don’t lose it. It comes from the shipping line (or via your forwarder) after the vessel sails. Make sure that it matches what you actually shipped: It includes the consignee details, notify party, VIN, port of loading (Jebel Ali, Khalifa, etc.), port of discharge, and the release type (originals or telex release). The B/L will note the vehicle as rolling stock; for RoRo and for containers, it will display the container and seal numbers.
Marine Cargo Insurance
If your Incoterms are CIF or you simply like sleeping well, buy all-risk cargo insurance (or at least total loss). Policies typically cover “CIF + 10%” as the insured value and can include war/SRCC where relevant. Pro tip: add a photo condition report before loading to avoid disputes later.
Owner ID + Power of Attorney (when needed)
If you’re not physically present, or a logistics company is acting on your behalf, a POA (Power of Attorney) keeps the process clean. Always include passport/Emirates ID copies of the owner or authorized signatory.
Pre-Shipment Inspection (destination-dependent)
Some countries require certification before loading—think PVOC/KEBS (Kenya), SONCAP (Nigeria), TBS (Tanzania), and others. If your buyer says “we need PSI,” book it early. Inspectors don’t appear by magic during port week. Get details about Toyota vehicle Export from UAE.
RoRo vs. Container: slight paperwork twists
RoRo (Roll-on&Roll-off): The easiest and efficacious technique for cars and pickups. You will still do export certificate + customs declaration + invoice/packing + CoO + B/L + insurance. Bonus: fewer handling risks.
Container: Best when bundling vehicles with parts or when RoRo isn’t available. You’ll add container & seal numbers to documents and often a more detailed packing list (positions, lashings, dunnage). If you remove batteries or fuel, note it.
Either way, consignee names must match destination import permits or licenses. Typos cost time.
Fuel, batteries & other safety notes (quick but important)
Fuel: Leave a minimal safe level for RoRo (check the line’s rule). For containers, most shippers prefer very low or drained.
Battery: Disconnect; protect terminals. If you’re moving EVs or lithium batteries independently , dangerous-goods (DG) rules apply—different story, more paperwork (SDS, UN 38.3, etc.) is required .
Spare articles : Secure spares in the trunk or cargo bay; list them on the packing list. Nothing should rattle around. Looking for a Forklift Supplier in UAE?
Step-by-step: a simple timeline that works
- Settle finance (if any) → get bank NOC.
- Visit RTA/AD Police → Export Certificate + optional export plates (with short-term road insurance).
- Confirm Incoterms with buyer (FOB/CFR/CIF) and payment method (TT/LC).
- Book RoRo or container → get cutoff dates.
- Prepare Commercial Invoice & Packing List; apply for Certificate of Origin.
- File Customs Export Declaration (forwarder handles with your docs).
- Arrange PSI/attestations if destination needs them.
- Deliver to port / stuff the container → photos + condition report.
- Vessel sails → receive Bill of Lading; check every line.
- Send B/L, CoO, invoice, packing list, insurance (and PSI) to buyer for destination clearance.
It is really important to keep the PDF copies of everything in one shared folder, as old school and vintage as it sounds, it is also essential to print a hard set and keep it in your glovebox or bag on port day. Get details about Heavy equipment exporter UAE.
Common miscalculations that cause delays (and ways to swerve them)
- Missing export certificate. Registration canceled isn’t the same as export. Ask for the correct status.
- Wrong consignee name. If the buyer’s import license says “XYZ Motors FZC,” the B/L should say exactly that, not “XYZ Motors.”
- Vague invoice. Always incorporate VIN, make/model, year, and condition. Customs appreciate clarity.
- Late PSI booking. If the country needs it, schedule it before the car reaches the port.
- Telex vs. originals confusion. Decide early. Originals must be couriered; telex release is faster but must be properly authorized (fees apply).
- No insurance. A single crane bump can ruin your week. Even a lean total-loss policy beats nothing.
Related Articles:
» How to Successfully Export Pickup Vehicles from the UAE
» Toyota cars Export from UAE: What You Need to Know
» What must you know before exporting a car from the UAE
» Top Forklift Exporters in Dubai: A Guide for Global Buyers
» Benefits of Using Professional Car Export Services in Dubai
What your buyer needs (so you can nudge them politely)
You control the export; they control import. Helpful reminders to send:
- Import permit or local trade license (where required)
- Tax ID and full consignee details to put on the B/L
- Destination duties & VAT estimate (their responsibility, but a heads-up helps)
- Clearing agent contact ready before the ship arrives
- Any roadworthiness/age limits in that country (some limit older vehicles)
When both sides prepare, your car spends less time sunbathing at the terminal.
FAQs
1. Can I drive the car to Jebel Ali?
Yes—with export plates and short-term insurance. Or book a recovery truck; sometimes it’s cheaper and calmer.
2. Do I need to empty the tank
For RoRo: leave a small safe amount (line rules vary). For containers: most prefer drained. Ask your forwarder.
3. How many originals do I need?
If using originals, many destinations still expect 3 originals of the B/L. Your forwarder will advise if telex release is accepted.
4. Is CoO always mandatory?
Not always, but many customs offices ask for it. It also helps buyers reduce duty under certain trade regimes.
5. How long does it all take?
Assuming docs are clean: 2–5 days to prep export docs and deliver to port; sailing time depends on route (a few days regionally, weeks for far oceans).