Shipping Auto Parts from Nashville to San Jose via Ocean Freight

For moisture-sensitive Auto parts, choose inner poly bags with desiccant around each component, then place them in reinforced packaging with sufficient cushioning. Seal all seams with Water-resistant tape and clearly mark cartons “Protect from Moisture”. For export or long-duration transit, evaluate adding Desiccant packs inside master cartons and, if needed, inside the shipping container.

You Can ship car tires with boxed automotive parts, but they must be physically separated and properly secured. We recommend palletizing boxed auto components and then stacking or racking car tires so they do not press against or rub cartons. Avoid placing heavy loose Tires on top of fragile or moisture-sensitive Automotive parts, as this can cause crushing or punctures during transit.

Fluid-filled Auto parts such as fuel system components, shock absorbers, or oil coolers can require dangerous goods documentation, depending on the type and quantity of fluid. Exporters should Check whether the product is classified as dangerous goods under IMDG and IATA regulations and include the appropriate safety data sheets (SDS), UN numbers, and packing group information if applicable. Even when not regulated as hazardous, clearly Indicate “Contains Fluids – Keep Upright” on packaging and shipping documents to guide carriers.

High-value Car parts such as engines, transmissions, ECUs, and safety modules are typically shipped with declared value coverage. Carrier default liability tends to be limited and may not cover the full replacement cost of specialized Automotive parts. Most brokers recommend insuring based on replacement value, documenting serial numbers and condition at pickup, and retaining invoices and packing lists so any claim for loss, impact damage, or moisture-related failure is processed efficiently.

To reduce damage in mixed Automotive pallet loads, arrange the heaviest metal components at the bottom, with lighter boxes and car tires above. Use angle boards, Stretch wrap plus strapping to stabilize the load and prevent shifting. Keep moisture-sensitive auto components toward the center of the pallet, away from potential leaks or condensation on trailer walls, and prominently mark any fragile or orientation-sensitive cartons so handlers Can follow correct handling procedures.

The required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any specific import permits required by Costa Rican customs for automotive parts.

Yes, during the rainy season in Central America, which typically occurs from May to November, there may be increased risks of delays due to weather conditions affecting port operations.

You can take the “One Test Run Challenge” by giving us a single shipment, which we use to demonstrate what visibility, reliability, and real partnership feel like, with a dedicated page available to get started.

SAMMIE is included with every ocean, air, land, and customs service at no extra cost.

We use SAMMIE’s AI-driven rate and route optimization to recommend optimal carriers and lanes based on current conditions and prices.