Shipping Autos from Cai Mep to Cartagena via Ocean Freight

Readying cars for international shipping demands a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, 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 vehicles depend on the transport company and lane. Many international carriers do not allow 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. Customs advisors 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 automotive cargo, specialists 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 humidity absorbers inside the auto, applying protective wax coatings to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing Enclosed containers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually restricted and may not reflect the true value of your passenger vehicle. Insurance brokers 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 Included in the policy.

For international vehicle transport, you typically need the original title or registration, a purchase invoice, a copy of your passport or company registration, and export/customs declarations filed in advance. Some destinations also require homologation or conformity certificates. 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, packing list, export declaration from Vietnam, and import permit or customs declaration for Colombia. Additionally, compliance with Colombia's vehicle regulations and proof of ownership may be necessary.

Cai Mep is equipped with deep-water ports capable of accommodating large vessels, with specialized handling facilities for vehicles. Cartagena's port also has the infrastructure for vehicle imports, including customs facilities and storage areas for automotive cargo.

Our team delivers end-to-end freight forwarding across ocean, air, and ground transportation, plus customs brokerage, warehousing and distribution, and access to our AI-powered SAMMIE tracking and exception management platform.

Our system offers invoicing insights that flag duplicates, match line items, and streamline billing through AI-driven reconciliation and analytics.

Our air freight services include expedited air options for urgent and high-value shipments when every hour counts.