Shipping Automobiles from Durban to Altamira via Ocean Freight

Getting cars for international shipping Requires complete exterior and interior 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 Titles and export documents before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside cars 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 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 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 Desiccant packs inside the auto, 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 restricted 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 covered under the same certificate.

For international car 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 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.

Automobiles should be properly secured in containers to prevent movement during transit. It is essential to ensure that all vehicles are drained of fuel and fluids to comply with international shipping regulations and avoid environmental hazards. Additionally, vehicles should be inspected for damage before loading and documented accordingly.

Required documentation includes a bill of lading, commercial invoice, export permit, and any necessary customs declarations. It is also important to provide proof of ownership and comply with both South African and Mexican regulatory requirements for importing vehicles.

DNA offers international freight forwarding by ocean, air, and land, along with customs brokerage, warehouse support, and access to our AI-powered SAMMIE visibility platform.

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Users can download shipment-level data, invoices, event histories, and landed costs in Excel or PDF format, structured for finance audits, operations tracking, customer service updates, and performance analysis.