Planning to ship a car to Sarawak from Peninsular Malaysia? Understanding the cost of shipping a car to Sarawak is the most important first step before making any decisions. Vehicle shipping rates across the South China Sea vary depending on several factors including vehicle type, destination port in Sarawak, and the chosen shipping method. In this article, we will provide detailed information about all costs involved so you can plan your budget accurately.
Sarawak, as the largest state in Malaysia, has several main ports that receive vehicle shipments from the Peninsula. Kuching Port and Bintulu Port are the two main ports frequently used for this purpose. The cost of shipping a car to Sarawak also depends on whether you choose the RORO (Roll-On Roll-Off) method or use a container. This article will provide a clear and detailed price breakdown to help you make the right choice.
Overview of Car Shipping to Sarawak
Shipping a car from Peninsular Malaysia to Sarawak requires sea transport across the South China Sea. Unlike shipping within the Peninsula which can use car carriers via road, shipping to Sarawak involves a more complex process including customs clearance, marine transport, and port logistics.
OCANIA Sdn. Bhd. has handled thousands of car shipments to Sarawak and has extensive experience in ensuring customers' vehicles arrive safely at their destination. Here are the key factors that affect the cost of shipping a car to Sarawak:
- Vehicle type — The size and weight of the vehicle determine the price rate. Motorcycles, sedans, MPVs, and 4x4s have different prices.
- Destination port — Kuching, Bintulu, Sibu, and Miri have different price rates.
- Shipping method — RORO is cheaper while container shipping is more expensive but safer.
- Door-to-door shipping distance — Additional costs if using pickup or delivery to address services.
- Marine insurance — An optional add-on that is highly recommended for vehicle protection.
Latest Rates: Port Klang to Kuching (Sarawak) 2025
Below is the latest price list for vehicle shipping from Port Klang to Kuching, Sarawak via OCANIA Sdn. Bhd.. These prices are for the RORO method which is the most popular option:
| Vehicle Type | Example Models | Price (RM) |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | Honda Wave, Y15ZR, NMax | RM 530 |
| Sedan / Hatchback | Myvi, Vios, City, Axia | RM 1,380 |
| MPV / SUV | Alza, Aruz, X50, HR-V | RM 1,680 |
| 4x4 / Pickup | Hilux, Triton, Ranger, D-Max | RM 1,880 |
* Prices include 6% SST. Marine insurance not included. Prices are subject to change without notice.
Important Note: The prices above are estimates for the Port Klang to Kuching route using the RORO method. Actual prices may vary depending on your specific vehicle model. Contact Ocania for an accurate quotation.
Shipping Costs to Other Destinations in Sarawak
Besides Kuching, Ocania also provides shipping services to several other main ports and cities in Sarawak. Below are the estimated sedan car shipping rates from Port Klang to major destinations in Sarawak:
| Route | Sedan (RM) | MPV/SUV (RM) | 4x4 (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Port Klang → Kuching | RM 1,380 | RM 1,680 | RM 1,880 |
| Port Klang → Sibu | RM 1,580 | RM 1,880 | RM 2,080 |
| Port Klang → Bintulu | RM 1,680 | RM 1,980 | RM 2,180 |
| Port Klang → Miri | RM 1,780 | RM 2,080 | RM 2,280 |
* Prices are estimates and may vary. Contact Ocania for an accurate quotation based on your vehicle model.
Internal Sarawak Shipping Rates
For customers already in Sarawak who wish to ship vehicles between cities within Sarawak, Ocania also provides internal shipping services. Below are the estimated rates for sedan car shipping between major cities in Sarawak:
| Internal Sarawak Route | Sedan (RM) | MPV/SUV (RM) |
|---|---|---|
| Kuching → Sibu | RM 880 | RM 1,080 |
| Kuching → Bintulu | RM 1,080 | RM 1,280 |
| Kuching → Miri | RM 1,280 | RM 1,480 |
| Sibu → Bintulu | RM 580 | RM 780 |
| Bintulu → Miri | RM 680 | RM 880 |
* Internal Sarawak prices are estimates and subject to change. Internal shipping uses car carrier (land) or ship depending on the route.
Car Shipping Methods to Sarawak
There are two main methods used to ship cars from the Peninsula to Sarawak. The choice of method affects the overall cost of shipping a car to Sarawak.
1. RORO (Roll-On Roll-Off)
The RORO method is the most popular and economical option for shipping cars to Sarawak. Your vehicle will be driven into the ship at Port Klang and driven out upon arrival at Kuching or Bintulu port. Vehicles are securely fastened on the ship's deck to ensure their safety.
Advantages of RORO for shipping to Sarawak:
- Lower cost compared to container — savings of up to 30-40%
- Quick loading and unloading process
- Fixed and frequent sailing schedules to Kuching and Bintulu
- Suitable for most types of passenger and commercial vehicles
2. Container Shipping
Container shipping provides higher protection for your vehicle. The car is loaded into a 20-foot or 40-foot container and shipped via cargo vessel. This method is suitable for luxury vehicles or if you wish to ship personal belongings together with the car.
Advantages of container shipping:
- Complete protection from weather and external risks
- Can ship personal belongings together with the vehicle
- Ideal for luxury and high-value vehicles
- Guaranteed security with locked containers
Ports Involved in Sarawak
Sarawak has several main ports that receive vehicle shipments from the Peninsula. Understanding these ports is important as they affect the car shipping cost to Sarawak and the transit duration.
| Port | Location | Areas Covered | Duration from Port Klang |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuching Port | Kuching, Sarawak | Kuching, Sri Aman, Sarikei | 5 - 7 days |
| Bintulu Port | Bintulu, Sarawak | Bintulu, Sibu, Mukah, Kapit | 7 - 9 days |
Kuching Port is the main and most frequently used port for car shipping to Sarawak. Most vehicles shipped from the Peninsula will arrive here. For those in northern Sarawak areas such as Bintulu, Sibu, and Miri, using Bintulu Port may be more practical although the cost is slightly higher.
Transit Duration for Car Shipping to Sarawak
The transit duration for car shipping to Sarawak depends on the destination port, weather conditions, and ship sailing schedules. Below is an estimate of the overall duration from vehicle handover until it is ready for collection:
Shipping Duration Breakdown:
- Vehicle Handover & Inspection
1 - 2 working days — Vehicle is handed over to the Ocania depot, inspection is conducted, and documents are verified. - Customs Processing & Loading
1 - 2 working days — Customs clearance is processed and the vehicle is loaded onto the ship. - Sea Voyage
3 - 5 days (Kuching) / 5 - 7 days (Bintulu) — Voyage duration depends on weather and schedules. - Destination Customs Clearance
1 - 2 working days — Customs clearance process at the Sarawak port. - Collection / Door-to-Door Delivery
1 - 3 days — Depends on final location and chosen service.
| Route | Voyage | Total Overall Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Port Klang → Kuching | 3 - 5 days | 7 - 12 days |
| Port Klang → Sibu | 4 - 6 days | 8 - 14 days |
| Port Klang → Bintulu | 5 - 7 days | 9 - 15 days |
| Port Klang → Miri | 6 - 8 days | 10 - 16 days |
The durations above are estimates and may change according to current conditions. For the latest sailing schedule information, please refer to our ship schedule page which is updated regularly.
Documents Required for Shipping to Sarawak
Before shipping your car to Sarawak, make sure you have prepared all the required documents. Complete documentation will speed up the customs clearance process and prevent any delays.
Mandatory Document Checklist:
- Copy of Owner's Identity Card (IC) — Front and back, must be clear and current
- Copy of Vehicle Registration (VOC / Registration Certificate) — Ensure the owner's name matches the IC
- Active Road Tax — Road tax must not be expired
- Bank Consent Letter — MANDATORY for vehicles still under bank loan
- Letter of Authorisation — If someone else is sending on behalf of the registered owner
- Ocania Booking Form — Will be provided by Ocania during the booking process
Bank Consent Letter Application Process
For vehicles still under a bank loan, the consent letter is the most important document. Without this letter, the shipment cannot proceed. Here are the steps to obtain a consent letter:
- Contact Ocania — Get a supporting letter and quotation from Ocania first.
- Visit your bank branch — Bring your IC copy, Ocania's letter, and the quotation to the bank.
- Fill in the application form — Complete the vehicle release application form from the bank.
- Wait for approval — The approval process usually takes 3-7 working days.
- Receive the consent letter — Once approved, obtain the original consent letter.
What is Included in the Shipping Cost?
It is important to understand what is included and not included in the car shipping cost to Sarawak so you are not surprised by additional charges. Here is a detailed breakdown:
Included in the Price:
- Sea freight charges
- Customs clearance at origin port
- Customs clearance at destination port
- Port handling
- SST 6%
- Vehicle securing and fastening on ship
Not Included in the Price:
- Marine insurance (optional but recommended)
- Pickup / door-to-door service
- Storage charges if vehicle is collected late
- Any vehicle repairs
- Port parking fees
Tips to Save on Car Shipping Costs to Sarawak
Here are some tips that can help you reduce the cost of shipping a car to Sarawak:
- Choose RORO over container — If your car is not a luxury vehicle, the RORO method is sufficient and far more affordable.
- Deliver directly to the depot — Driving your car to the Ocania depot yourself can save on pickup costs.
- Plan ahead — Early booking allows you to choose the most suitable sailing schedule and avoid rush charges.
- Choose the nearest port — If you are in Kuching, choose Kuching Port. Avoid paying extra for unnecessary internal shipping.
- Group shipments — If you have friends or family who also want to ship a car, group shipments may qualify for a discount.
- Prepare documents early — Complete documentation prevents delays that could result in additional storage charges.
- Compare prices — Get a quotation from Ocania and compare with other services, but make sure the comparison includes all hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Car Shipping Cost to Sarawak
How much does it cost to ship a Myvi to Kuching?
The Perodua Myvi falls under the sedan/hatchback category. The estimated shipping cost from Port Klang to Kuching is around RM 1,380 (including SST, excluding marine insurance). Contact Ocania for an accurate quotation.
Does the price include insurance?
No. The shipping price does not include marine insurance. Marine insurance is an optional add-on that is highly recommended to protect your vehicle. Insurance rates depend on the vehicle's value.
Can I ship goods together with the car?
If using RORO, placing goods inside the car is NOT allowed. If using a container, you can ship goods together with the car. Contact Ocania to find out container shipping costs.
How long does it take for my car to arrive in Kuching?
The estimated overall duration from handover until ready for collection in Kuching is 7-12 days, depending on the ship schedule and customs processes.
Are costs different for old and new cars?
Shipping costs depend on the vehicle type and size, not the vehicle's age. Old and new sedan cars have the same shipping rate. The only difference is the marine insurance rate.