Ship Your Car to India on CPD – Carnet de Passage Explained

Luxury car being loaded into a container for CPD shipping from Dubai to India

Planning to ship your Dubai-registered car to India temporarily? A Carnet de Passage (CPD), also known as a “trip ticket” in the UAE, is your key document for smooth and duty-free temporary car imports.

 

What is a Carnet de Passage (CPD)?

A Carnet de Passage is an international customs document that permits the temporary importation of vehicles into foreign countries without paying customs duties or taxes. Issued by authorized organizations, this document serves as a guarantee to the customs authorities that the vehicle will be re-exported within a specified time.

The CPD booklet contains details about the car and the owner and is essential for travelers driving across borders, including into India from the UAE.

 

How to Obtain a Carnet de Passage in the UAE

In the UAE, the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) is the official body authorized to issue the CPD. We recommend reaching out to them directly for the latest information and issuance support.

Documents Required:

  • Valid Passport
  • Valid Emirates ID
  • Valid UAE Residency Visa
  • Valid UAE Driving License
  • Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya)
  • Valid UAE Insurance
  • UAE Bank Account & Cheque Book (for refundable security cheque)

 

CPD Deposit & Refund Policy

The security deposit for a Carnet de Passage varies depending on your vehicle’s value. Typically, a percentage of the vehicle's value is held as a refundable deposit. You may need to provide both a security cheque and a cash deposit. These will be returned upon the safe re-export and return of the Carnet booklet to ATCUAE.

 

Major Indian Ports for Vehicle Shipping

Freight My Car currently offers CPD-compliant vehicle shipping to two key sea ports in India:

  • Nhava Sheva Port (Mumbai)
  • Cochin/Kochi Port (Chennai)

 

Estimated Cost for CPD Car Shipping to India

The estimated cost to ship a car from Jebel Ali, Dubai to Mumbai or Cochin ports under CPD is AED 14,500 per vehicle. This includes:

  • Pickup from your door in Dubai
  • Container loading
  • UAE export customs and CPD inspection
  • Sea freight
  • Indian customs clearance and inspection at destination

Note: Door delivery within India is available at additional cost based on your final location.

 

Eligibility: Who Can Apply for a CPD?

  • You must hold a valid residence visa in India
  • Your vehicle must not be under mortgage or auto loan
  • Applicants must reside in the UAE and provide all valid documentation

 

Full-Service Car Shipping with Freight My Car

At Freight My Car, we specialize in CPD-based car shipping to India. From pickup to delivery, our experienced logistics team manages:

  • Collection from your location in Dubai
  • Export clearance with Carnet inspection
  • Secure containerized shipping
  • Customs clearance in India
  • Final delivery to your preferred address (optional)

 

Shipping Timeline

  • Sea Freight Duration: 5–7 days (port-to-port)
  • Full Process Duration: 15–18 days (from pickup in Dubai to clearance in India)

 

Final Thoughts

Shipping a car to India on Carnet de Passage is a straightforward process when handled by experts. Whether you're relocating temporarily, visiting long-term, or just want your car with you in India, Freight My Car offers a professional, end-to-end solution.

 

Need Help?

Have questions about the Carnet de Passage (CPD) or the shipping process? Contact Freight My Car — we’ll be happy to assist you with documentation, eligibility, or planning your shipment.