Shipping Autos from Charleston to Detroit via Ocean Freight

Getting cars for international shipping necessitates Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, inspecting hoses and seals, 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 cars depend on the transport company and lane. 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. Most experts 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, 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 vapor inhibitors inside the Vehicle, applying rust-inhibiting sprays to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing covered carriers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for Vehicles is usually restricted and may not reflect the true value of your passenger vehicle. We 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 covered under the same certificate.

For international car transport, you typically need the original title or registration, 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. Customs specialists recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

Automobiles must be securely loaded into containers or on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent damage during transit. Adequate checks for fluid leaks, battery disconnection, and tire pressure adjustments are necessary to comply with maritime regulations.

Required documentation includes the bill of lading, title of the vehicle, and any applicable customs forms. As both locations are within the United States, no additional international customs documentation is necessary, but state-specific regulations may apply.

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.

Yes, we protect your data. All shipment, billing, and documentation data is encrypted in transit and at rest, and SAMMIE uses secure protocols and authentication layers to control access.