Shipping Automobiles from Melbourne to Cleveland via Ocean Freight

Getting passenger vehicles for international shipping demands a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, inspecting hoses and seals, 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 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 do not allow 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. Most experts 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, 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 humidity absorbers inside the Vehicle, applying rust-inhibiting sprays to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing covered carriers 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. Insurance brokers 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 covered under the same certificate.

For international car transport, you typically need clear title documents, a purchase invoice, a copy of your passport or company registration, and export/customs declarations filed in advance. Some destinations also require homologation or conformity certificates. Customs specialists recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

The documentation required includes a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, export declaration, and any necessary customs forms for both Australian and U.S. customs. Additionally, vehicles may need to comply with U.S. environmental and safety standards.

Seasonal considerations include potential weather-related delays such as storms during cyclone season in Australia and winter weather in the northern United States, which can affect port operations and shipping schedules.

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.

DNA stands out through smarter tech, faster answers, and people who care, combining our AI-powered SAMMIE platform with real humans who know your freight and act as a trusted partner.

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.