You are facing a long term international move overseas and are contemplating whether or not to take your beloved and trusty automobile with you. Being able to drive your own car in a foreign place should not be accepted as a given: each country has its own set of rules and regulations about allowing the importation of and operating of cars from overseas. There are factors involved with such a move that you should consider before making your decision one way or the other.

-- Does your country even permit the importation of automobiles? Does it have strict emission standards in place for environmental protection or would compliance with its safety regulations make it cost prohibitive for you to drive your car there legally?

-- Something is just as likely to go wrong with a car in a foreign country as it is in the United States: you must plan for the worst. If you are involved in an accident, would your model of car be able to undergo major repairs in your new home? Even if the worst doesn't happen, all cars need regular maintenance and occasional replacement of parts. Would you be able to find a new muffler for that vintage Chevy, for instance?

-- The chances are very good that, wherever you are moving to (especially if it's a European country), you will be facing customs duties and a high rate of taxation. It is a fact that alien residents are often socked with fees and taxes to compensate for lower rates for native residents. You must weigh the extra costs against the benefits of having the car with you. Is it really worth it?

-- What kind of insurance does the country require and what are the average costs? You may be surprised at how much more expensive simple necessities such as coverage are in a foreign land. If you are moving to a big city with a lot of traffic, you may think it more advantageous and simpler to use the public transportation systems such as trains and subways. That is one area where foreign countries have done things really well.

You may obtain all of the answers to the above concerns by contacting the American Embassy in your destination country or by contacting a reputable international shipping company that specializes in moving automobiles.

Although it may seem like an attractive idea to drive your best friend on four wheels in a new place, but the financial realities of such a decision may be a deterrent. If you do decide that you want to take your car with you, make sure to choose a good shipper with caring employees who will make sure it gets there safe and sound.