Top 5 Ports for Car Export from the USA

The United States remains one of the world’s largest exporters of vehicles, with millions of cars shipped overseas every year.

Whether it’s new automobiles, used cars, or classic vehicles, U.S. ports play a vital role in connecting global markets.

In 2025, U.S. car exports reached $57.4 billion, with shipments mainly headed to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East (source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2025).

Let’s take a closer look at the top 5 ports for vehicle export and why they matter in global logistics.

 

Port of Savannah, Georgia

 

The Port of Savannah has rapidly become one of the most efficient and strategically located ports for vehicle exports from the East Coast.

Key 2025 Statistics:

• Handled over 5.7 million TEUs (containers) — up 7.4% year-over-year.

• Over 620,000 vehicles and heavy machinery units exported in 2025.

• Direct trade links to Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Why It’s Important:

• Located just 15 minutes from All Cargo Export HQ, ensuring faster delivery from yard to port.

• Deep-water terminal for large container vessels.

• Shorter inland routes from major auto hubs in the Southeastern U.S.

 

Savannah’s proximity to logistics providers and top-tier infrastructure makes it a prime hub for vehicle exports, especially to Nigeria, Ghana, and the UAE.

 

Port of Brunswick, Georgia

 

Known as the “Car Capital of the South”, Brunswick is one of the top Ro/Ro (Roll-On/Roll-Off) ports in the world.

2025 Data Highlights:

• Exported more than 700,000 vehicles, mostly used cars and trucks.

• Major export destinations: West Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean.

• Serves major automakers like Ford, GM, Toyota, and Mercedes-Benz.

Why It’s Key:

• Specialized auto terminals designed for high-volume exports.

• Excellent rail and road connectivity to Atlanta and Florida.

• Focused on Ro/Ro operations, ideal for drivable and heavy vehicles.

 

Port of Baltimore, Maryland

 

Baltimore continues to dominate auto exports and imports on the U.S. East Coast.

2025 Insights:

• Exported more than 500,000 cars and trucks.

• Handles vehicles for Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, and BMW.

• Top routes: Europe (Germany, Belgium) and Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia).

Why Exporters Prefer It:

• Deep berths for large Ro/Ro ships.

• Short turnaround time and efficient customs processing.

• Advanced vehicle storage and pre-inspection facilities.

 

Port of Houston, Texas

 

The Port of Houston is a key Gulf Coast export gateway — especially for auto shipments to Latin America and the Middle East.

 

2025 Data Snapshot:

• Handled over 320,000 vehicle exports, growing 11% from 2024.

• Major export routes: Mexico, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

• Increasing share of SUVs and pickup trucks in exports.

Why It Stands Out:

• Central location — easy access from southern and midwestern U.S.

• Dual rail and highway systems reduce inland transport time.

• Equipped with both container and Ro/Ro capabilities.

 

Port of Los Angeles, California

 

On the West Coast, the Port of Los Angeles leads in auto exports to Asia-Pacific markets.

 

2025 Highlights:

• Exported around 250,000 vehicles in 2025.

• Main destinations: China, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.

• High-value exports — luxury and electric vehicles (Tesla, Lucid, Rivian).

Why It’s Strategic:

• Closest U.S. port to major Pacific routes.

• Advanced handling for EVs and hybrid cars.

• Massive container throughput supports combined cargo shipments.

 

All Cargo Export: Your Professional Port Partner

 

At All Cargo Export, we work directly with the Port of Savannah — only 15 minutes away from our headquarters.

This allows us to offer:

• Faster port access

• Secure loading & photo documentation

• Professional container handling

• Worldwide delivery coverage

 

Whether you’re shipping cars, SUVs, or heavy machinery — our proximity to Savannah gives us a major logistical advantage for speed, safety, and cost efficiency.