Shipping Automobiles from Long Beach to Detroit via Ocean Freight

Preparing Autos 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. We 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 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 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 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 Vehicles 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 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 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 shipped via ocean require secure loading in containers or on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent movement during transit. Proper blocking and bracing are essential to protect vehicles from damage. Additionally, vehicles should have fuel levels below a certain threshold and batteries disconnected to comply with safety regulations.

Required documentation includes a bill of lading, proof of ownership (such as the title), and any applicable customs forms. Since both Long Beach and Detroit are in the United States, vehicles must comply with U.S. customs regulations, including any emissions or safety standards that may apply.

Most platforms only show carrier data, while SAMMIE is built on ecosystem data from third-party sources and DNA’s proprietary history, enabling predictive ETAs, intelligent alerts, and advanced automation powered by clean, validated data.

We offer international shipping by ocean (FCL and LCL), air (standard and expedited), and domestic or cross-border ground freight (FTL, LTL, and intermodal).

Absolutely, you can access all documents—bills of lading, invoices, customs forms, and arrival notices—in SAMMIE’s centralized, searchable document hub.