Shipping Automobiles from Cartagena to Detroit via Ocean Freight

Readying passenger vehicles for international shipping Requires a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, and ensuring the battery is tight and protected. We recommend leaving about a quarter tank of fuel, fully charging the battery, documenting existing damage with photos, and providing all required Titles and export documents before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside vehicles 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. Customs advisors recommend confirming with your carrier in writing and understanding that personal items are often outside normal liability, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for automotive cargo, 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 sealed equipment 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. 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 explicitly insured.

For international vehicle 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. 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, export declaration, commercial invoice, and proof of ownership. Importantly, compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations is necessary, including a completed EPA Form 3520-1 for emissions and safety standards.

Yes, seasonal weather patterns can impact shipping conditions. The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November, may pose risks to maritime transport, potentially affecting routes and schedules. Additionally, winter conditions in Detroit can influence the handling and delivery of vehicles upon arrival.

Our team brings 30+ years of experience with global reach and local touch, using deep carrier relationships to move freight worldwide with precision and white-glove attention at every step.

We rely on in-house customs brokerage with automation to reduce errors and accelerate clearance, rather than outsourcing to third-party brokers with outdated, manual documentation processes.

DNA’s “One Test Run” offer is an invitation to move a single shipment with DNA so we can demonstrate our visibility, reliability, and partnership, showing how our SAMMIE platform and proactive team perform in a real-world test.