Shipping Automobiles from Colon to Long Beach via Ocean Freight

Preparing Autos for international shipping Requires Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active 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 ownership and customs paperwork before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside Autos Vary by carrier and route. 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. Customs advisors 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 Autos, 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 Desiccant packs inside the Vehicle, applying protective wax coatings to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing covered carriers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

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

For international Auto transport, you typically need Proof of ownership, 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. 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 vehicle's title, bill of lading, and a customs declaration, along with compliance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.

Seasonal weather patterns, particularly during the rainy season in Panama, may affect port operations and loading conditions, which can impact the handling of automobiles during transit.

It means we serve people, not just packages, focusing on face-to-face communication, thoughtful support, and long-term trust rather than one-off transactions.

You can take the “One Test Run Challenge” by giving us a single shipment, which we use to demonstrate what visibility, reliability, and real partnership feel like, with a dedicated page available to get started.

SAMMIE is included with every ocean, air, land, and customs service at no extra cost.