Shipping Cars from Long Beach to Tacoma via Ocean Freight

Getting passenger vehicles for international shipping Requires Thorough cleaning, 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 vehicle and customs documentation before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside cars differ between domestic and international moves. 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 outside normal liability, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for cars, most carriers suggest 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 capped 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 explicitly insured.

For international car transport, you typically need clear title documents, 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 bill of lading, title, and registration of the vehicle, along with any applicable customs forms, even though both locations are within the United States.

Yes, ocean shipping can be affected by seasonal weather patterns, such as increased storms during the winter months, which may impact shipping conditions and port operations.

The platform improves internal visibility by providing immediate visibility across departments and to your clients, which supports better alignment between purchasing, logistics, and finance.

The platform’s document tools will auto-tag and organize bills of lading, customs forms, and invoices so you no longer need to hunt through folders or inboxes.

To learn about the people and values, visit the “Meet the people and values behind DNA Supply Chain Solutions” section linked from the SAMMIE page.