Shipping Autos from Norfolk to Miami via Ocean Freight

Preparing 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 Securely mounted. We 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 Autos 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 Excluded from insurance, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for Autos, 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 Enclosed containers 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. 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 Included in the policy.

For international Auto 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.

When shipping automobiles via ocean, it is essential to ensure that vehicles are properly secured in containers or on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, any personal belongings should be removed from the vehicle, and the fuel tank should be no more than a quarter full to comply with safety regulations.

The required documentation includes the vehicle's title, bill of lading, and any necessary customs forms. Since both Norfolk and Miami are in the United States, there are no international customs requirements, but state regulations may apply, so it's important to check local laws for registration and emissions compliance upon arrival.

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

Absolutely, you can access all documents—bills of lading, invoices, customs forms, and arrival notices—in SAMMIE’s centralized, searchable document hub.

Yes, we offer periodic performance reviews and account check-ins so you can review metrics and discuss needs or questions live.