Shipping Automobiles from Balboa to Oakland via Ocean Freight

Getting passenger vehicles for international shipping Requires Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, and ensuring the battery is properly fastened. Most export agents recommend leaving about a quarter tank of fuel, fully charging the battery, documenting existing damage with photos, and providing all required vehicle and customs documentation before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside cars 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 Permit limited items if they are below window level and securely fastened. Customs advisors 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 cars, 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 protective wax coatings to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing covered carriers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually capped and may not reflect the true value of your Car. We recommend purchasing full-value 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 car 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 Emissions or safety compliance documents. Most freight forwarders 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 any specific import permits needed by U.S. customs. Additionally, proof of ownership and compliance with U.S. safety and emissions standards may be necessary.

Yes, automobiles should be properly secured in containers or on roll-on/roll-off vessels to prevent damage during transit. It's also important to ensure that fuel levels are low, and batteries are disconnected to comply with safety regulations during ocean transport.

Yes, the platform allows user-level permissions so warehouse, finance, purchasing, or customer service teams can access exactly what they need and nothing they don’t.

Yes, DNA offers customs brokerage. Our licensed customs experts handle import/export compliance, HS classification, tariff codes, ISF filings, and coordination with U.S. and international agencies.

Our platform identifies potential issues such as rerouted containers or port congestion early, giving our team time to step in quickly, resolve problems, and keep you proactively updated.