Shipping Automotive Cargo from Charleston to Houston via Ocean Freight

Getting passenger vehicles for international shipping demands Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, 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 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 do not allow 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. We 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 humidity absorbers inside the Vehicle, applying Temporary corrosion protection 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 passenger vehicle. We recommend purchasing All-risk 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 purchase invoice, a copy of your passport or company registration, and export/customs declarations filed in advance. Some destinations also require Emissions or safety compliance documents. We recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

When shipping automobiles via ocean, it is important to ensure that vehicles are properly secured in containers or on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, any personal belongings should be removed from the vehicles, and fuel levels should be kept low to comply with safety regulations.

The required documentation includes a bill of lading, proof of ownership (such as the title), and a customs declaration form. It is essential to ensure that all paperwork is accurate and complete to facilitate smooth customs clearance at both the departure and arrival ports.

The platform was created after a high-stakes wake-up call in 2017, when a critical container for a client’s first shipment with Marriott was delayed by 10 days, prompting us to build a more accurate, visibility-focused solution.

This principle reflects that our AI-enhanced platform SAMMIE is not just software but a total supply chain management system that delivers on the promise of real-time visibility, predictive alerts, and seamless coordination.

The quote emphasizes that we deliver not only exceptional logistics performance but also real, human relationships and authentic connection with our clients.