Shipping Passenger Vehicles from Le Havre to Bogota via Ocean Freight

Getting cars for international shipping Requires a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, and ensuring the battery is tight and protected. Most export agents 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 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 allow small quantities 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 outside normal liability, 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 Vehicle, applying protective wax coatings to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing sealed equipment wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for Vehicles is usually restricted and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Insurance brokers 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 explicitly insured.

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 homologation or conformity certificates. Most freight forwarders recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

The documentation typically required includes the original bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and a certificate of origin. Additionally, a customs declaration must be completed for both French and Colombian customs authorities.

Yes, seasonal weather patterns can affect ocean freight routes, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November, which may lead to route adjustments or delays. It is advisable to account for potential weather-related disruptions during these months.

Yes, DNA offers inventory management and reporting to support your storage and fulfillment needs.

Yes, DNA serves just-in-time delivery of industrial components, machinery, and replacement parts with full visibility across global lanes.

Our AI-powered ETAs are described as the most accurate in the industry because they are AI-powered and based on real shipment events and vessel telemetry, rather than vague or static carrier schedule guesses.