Shipping Vehicles from Mombasa to Cartagena via Ocean Freight

Readying cars for international shipping Requires a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, and ensuring the battery is Securely mounted. Logistics providers 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 vehicles 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. We recommend confirming with your carrier in writing and understanding that personal items are often Excluded from insurance, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for automotive cargo, 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 auto, applying Temporary corrosion protection to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing Enclosed containers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually restricted and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Insurance brokers 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 Included in the policy.

For international vehicle 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. We recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

The required documentation typically includes the original bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, vehicle registration documents, and any import permits required by Colombian customs.

Mombasa Port is equipped with facilities for handling roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels, which are commonly used for automobile shipping. Cartagena Port also has the necessary infrastructure for receiving and processing automotive cargo, ensuring efficient unloading and customs clearance.

DNA Supply Chain captures our belief that success in business, like in life, depends on a foundation built on strong bonds, shared values, and trust, which we bring to every client relationship.

Our system was developed after a high-stakes wake-up call in 2017, when a critical container for a client’s first shipment with Marriott was delayed by 10 days, prompting us to build a more accurate, visibility-focused solution.

For clients, it means our AI-enhanced platform SAMMIE is not just software but a total supply chain management system that delivers on the promise of real-time visibility, predictive alerts, and seamless coordination.