Shipping Passenger Vehicles from New York to Puerto Caldera via Ocean Freight

Readying passenger vehicles for international shipping demands a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, and ensuring the battery is properly fastened. Logistics providers 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 vehicles 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. 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 automotive cargo, 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 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 autos is usually capped 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 covered under the same certificate.

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

Automobiles must be securely loaded into containers or onto roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent damage during ocean transit. It is essential to ensure that all fluids are at appropriate levels, battery terminals are disconnected, and personal belongings are removed from the vehicles.

Required documentation includes the original vehicle title, bill of sale, and a completed customs declaration form. Additionally, vehicles must comply with Costa Rican import regulations, which may include proof of ownership and emissions standards compliance.

New shippers are typically up and running within days, after we gather basic shipment details and compliance documents, set up your profile, configure SAMMIE access, and align your first shipment.

Many systems only display 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.

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