Shipping Automobiles from Colombo to Oakland via Ocean Freight

Readying Autos for international shipping demands complete exterior and interior 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 vehicle and customs documentation before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside vehicles Vary by carrier and route. Many international carriers do not allow household goods inside passenger vehicles due to customs and security regulations, while some domestic haulers accept light belongings 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, We 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 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 Limited and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Most logistics providers 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 Proof of ownership, a purchase invoice, a copy of your passport or company registration, and export/customs declarations filed in advance. Some destinations also require evidence the vehicle meets local standards. We recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

The documentation required includes a Bill of Lading, Export Declaration, Commercial Invoice, and a Certificate of Origin. Additionally, customs clearance documents must be prepared to comply with U.S. customs regulations.

Automobiles should be securely loaded and properly blocked to prevent movement during transit. It is also essential to ensure that vehicles are drained of fuel and fluids to comply with safety regulations during ocean transport.

Our ocean freight solutions include port-to-door service that covers customs and final-mile delivery.

Our ground transportation solutions include U.S. and Mexico cross-border coverage.

Our brokerage team supports ISF, AMS, and ACE filings for your shipments.