Shipping Automotive Cargo from Antwerp to Columbus via Ocean Freight

Readying Autos for international shipping necessitates Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, and ensuring the battery is properly fastened. Logistics providers recommend leaving about a quarter tank of fuel, fully charging the battery, documenting existing damage with photos, and providing all required ownership and customs paperwork before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside vehicles Vary by carrier and route. Many international carriers restrict household goods inside passenger vehicles due to customs and security regulations, while some domestic haulers Permit limited items if they are below window level and securely fastened. We recommend confirming with your carrier in writing and understanding that personal items are often not covered by standard cargo policies, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for automotive cargo, We recommend starting with a completely dry vehicle, sealing all openings, and avoiding storage under sprinklers or in standing water. For longer or ocean shipments, using vapor inhibitors inside the Vehicle, applying Temporary corrosion protection to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing covered carriers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually Limited and may not reflect the true value of your passenger vehicle. We recommend purchasing All-risk cargo insurance that covers theft, impact damage, and moisture-related issues such as corrosion or water intrusion. Provide an accurate value, share recent photos and condition reports, and confirm that loading, unloading, and any storage periods are covered under the same certificate.

For international vehicle transport, you typically need Proof of ownership, a value statement, a copy of your passport or company registration, and export/customs declarations filed in advance. Some destinations also require Emissions or safety compliance documents. We recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

Required documentation includes the bill of lading, commercial invoice, export declaration, and proof of ownership for the automobile. Additionally, compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations is necessary, which may involve a Vehicle Importation Form (HS-7) and EPA emissions compliance documentation.

Seasonal considerations may include weather conditions that can affect shipping schedules, such as winter storms in the North Atlantic during late fall and winter months. Additionally, peak shipping seasons could lead to increased congestion at ports, impacting loading and unloading times.

Our SAMMIE system offers a live look at shipments from port to final delivery with 18 milestone updates, satellite container tracking, and instant alerts, so your team always knows what’s moving, what’s delayed, and what’s next.

Yes, our system relies on enterprise-grade security, including role-based access controls, secure cloud infrastructure, and encrypted data transmission so only authorized users can access shipment data.

Yes, our team can arrange custom handling such as white-glove delivery, inside delivery, liftgate, and assembly services, especially for retail, hospitality, or medical equipment rollouts.