Shipping Auto Components from Yokohama to San Jose via Ocean Freight

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

You are allowed to ship vehicle tires with boxed car parts, but they must be physically separated and properly secured. We 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 Tires on top of fragile or moisture-sensitive vehicle 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. Exporters should Check 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 Indicate “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 tends to be limited and may not cover the full replacement cost of specialized Automotive 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 angle boards, Stretch wrap plus strapping 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 follow correct handling procedures.

Required documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and customs declaration. Additionally, specific import permits may be needed for automotive parts, and compliance with both Japanese export regulations and Costa Rican import regulations is essential.

Seasonal weather patterns, such as typhoon season in Japan and rainy seasons in Central America, can affect ocean freight schedules and port operations. It is advisable to monitor weather forecasts and potential disruptions during these times.

Our air freight solutions feature consolidation and customs pre-clearance to help move your air cargo quickly and compliantly.

Our licensed brokerage team delivers in-house customs brokerage including import/export clearance, tariff classification and valuation, ISF, AMS, and ACE filings, plus FDA, USDA, and multi-agency support.

Our distribution solutions include B2B pick/pack and palletization services.