Shipping Vehicle Parts from Yokohama to Puerto Barrios via Ocean Freight

For moisture-sensitive car parts, select inner sealed pouches around each component, then place them in Sturdy cartons with sufficient cushioning. Seal all seams with filament tape and clearly mark cartons “Keep Dry”. For export or long-duration transit, assess adding moisture absorbers inside master cartons and, if needed, inside the shipping container.

You are allowed to ship vehicle tires with boxed car parts, but They should be physically separated and properly secured. Most carriers recommend palletizing boxed Vehicle components and then stacking or racking vehicle tires so they do not press against or rub cartons. Avoid placing heavy loose vehicle tires on top of fragile or moisture-sensitive Automotive parts, as this can cause crushing or punctures during transit.

Fluid-filled vehicle parts such as fuel system components, shock absorbers, or oil coolers often require special handling notes, depending on the type and quantity of fluid. You should review whether the product is classified as dangerous goods under DOT and IATA regulations and prepare the appropriate safety data sheets (SDS), UN numbers, and packing group information if applicable. Even when not regulated as hazardous, clearly note “Contains Fluids – Keep Upright” on packaging and shipping documents to guide carriers.

High-value vehicle components such as engines, transmissions, ECUs, and safety modules should be shipped with enhanced transit insurance. Carrier default liability Is often limited and may not cover the full replacement cost of specialized auto parts. We 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 will be processed efficiently.

To reduce damage in mixed vehicle components pallet loads, position the heaviest metal components at the bottom, with lighter boxes and vehicle tires above. Use Corner boards, banding and film wrap to stabilize the load and prevent shifting. Keep moisture-sensitive Car parts toward the center of the pallet, away from potential leaks or condensation on trailer walls, and visibly tag any fragile or orientation-sensitive cartons so handlers can respect correct handling procedures.

The documentation typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and customs declaration. Additionally, specific import permits may be required for automotive parts when entering Guatemala.

Yokohama Port has extensive facilities for handling containerized cargo, while Puerto Barrios is equipped to handle various types of cargo but may have limitations regarding the handling of specialized automotive parts. Proper planning for loading and unloading is essential due to the different capabilities of each port.

Shippers can submit details via our Request a Quote form or talk to our team through the Contact Us page on our website.

Our operations are fully compliant with CBP, TSA, IATA, and NMFTA standards to ensure secure, lawful, and efficient cross-border operations.

Yes, one example is CE North America, where we built a custom EDI feed that pushes real-time shipment updates, documentation, and exception alerts directly into their ERP, eliminating dozens of manual tasks and improving cross-department visibility.