Shipping Vehicles from Atlanta to Colombo via Ocean Freight

Preparing passenger vehicles for international shipping Requires a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, inspecting hoses and seals, and ensuring the battery is Securely mounted. We 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 Autos differ between domestic and international moves. Many international carriers Prohibit household goods inside passenger vehicles due to customs and security regulations, while some domestic haulers allow small quantities if they are below window level and securely fastened. Most experts recommend confirming with your carrier in writing and understanding that personal items are often Excluded from insurance, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for Autos, most carriers suggest starting with a completely dry vehicle, sealing all openings, and avoiding storage under sprinklers or in standing water. For longer or ocean shipments, using Desiccant packs inside the Vehicle, applying rust-inhibiting sprays to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing Enclosed containers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for Vehicles is usually capped and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Insurance brokers recommend purchasing comprehensive 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 Included in the policy.

For international Auto transport, you typically need clear title documents, a Commercial invoice or bill of sale, a copy of your passport or company registration, and export/customs declarations filed in advance. Some destinations also require homologation or conformity certificates. Customs specialists recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

When shipping automobiles, it is essential to ensure that vehicles are properly secured to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, vehicles should be cleaned and free of any personal belongings to comply with customs regulations. It is also important to document the vehicle's condition before shipping to address any potential damage claims upon arrival.

Required documentation for customs clearance includes the original bill of lading, commercial invoice, vehicle title, and any applicable export permits. Additionally, import regulations in Sri Lanka may necessitate a certificate of conformity and proof of ownership. It is crucial to verify and comply with both U.S. export requirements and Sri Lankan import regulations to ensure smooth customs processing.

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

Yes, we provide consolidation and customs pre-clearance to help move your air cargo quickly and compliantly.

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