Shipping Passenger Vehicles from Charleston to Puerto Limon via Ocean Freight

Readying cars for international shipping Requires Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, and ensuring the battery is Securely mounted. Logistics providers 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 depend on the transport company and lane. 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. We 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 Desiccant packs inside the Vehicle, applying Temporary corrosion protection 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 Car. 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 Included in the policy.

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

The necessary documentation includes a bill of lading, commercial invoice, title, and proof of ownership. Additionally, customs documentation for both the United States and Costa Rica is required, including a completed customs declaration form for clearance in both countries.

The Port of Charleston has facilities equipped for handling automobile shipping, including roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) services and secure storage areas. In Puerto Limon, the port is also capable of accommodating vehicle shipments, but importers should be aware of local regulations and potential delays in customs processing.

Our licensed brokerage team delivers in-house customs brokerage including import/export clearance, tariff classification and valuation, ISF, AMS, and ACE filings, plus FDA, USDA, and multi-agency support.

Our distribution solutions include B2B pick/pack and palletization services.

Our logistics solutions include time-sensitive transport of medical devices, diagnostics, and regulated healthcare products.