Shipping Autos from Manzanillo to Colombo via Ocean Freight

Getting passenger vehicles for international shipping Requires complete exterior and interior cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, inspecting hoses and seals, and ensuring the battery is tight and protected. We 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 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 accept light belongings if they are below window level and securely fastened. Most experts 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 auto, applying rust-inhibiting sprays to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing sealed equipment wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually capped and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Most logistics providers recommend purchasing comprehensive 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 evidence the vehicle meets local standards. Customs specialists recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

Required documentation typically includes a bill of lading, commercial invoice, export declaration, and proof of ownership. Additionally, customs clearance documents must comply with both Mexican and Sri Lankan regulations.

Key handling considerations include ensuring vehicles are securely loaded in containers or on roll-on/roll-off ships, proper securing to prevent movement during transit, and careful inspection for any pre-existing damage before shipping.

If you spot an issue, we act fast, and SAMMIE also flags duplicates or anomalies before invoices are sent, with your dedicated Client Success Officer available for clarification.

DNA’s Expert Date is the most accurate dynamic forecasts in the industry, using historical data, live vessel telemetry, weather, and port congestion overlays to go beyond basic status updates.

Our quotes-to-invoice accuracy reaches over 97% accuracy, with SAMMIE reducing human errors, flagging duplicate invoices, suggesting corrections, auto-matching charges to events and documents, and speeding reconciliation.