Shipping Vehicles from San Jose to Chicago via Ocean Freight

Preparing Autos for international shipping Requires Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, and ensuring the battery is tight and protected. 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 Autos Vary by carrier and route. Many international carriers Prohibit household goods inside passenger vehicles due to customs and security regulations, while some domestic haulers Permit limited items if they are below window level and securely fastened. Customs advisors 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 Autos, We 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 Vehicle, applying protective wax coatings to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing sealed equipment wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for Vehicles is usually Limited and may not reflect the true value of your Car. We recommend purchasing full-value 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 Auto transport, you typically need Proof of ownership, 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 Emissions or safety compliance documents. Most freight forwarders recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

Required documentation includes the original title, bill of sale, proof of identity, and a completed customs declaration form. Additionally, a compliance certificate indicating that the vehicle meets U.S. environmental and safety standards may be necessary.

Seasonal weather patterns, particularly during the rainy season in Costa Rica, can affect port operations and loading conditions. Additionally, hurricanes may impact shipping routes and schedules during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November.

Yes, we handle urgent, oversized, or specialized shipments, including temperature-sensitive cargo, high-value electronics, and complex FF&E rollouts across all modes.

Yes, we can. We manage documentation, declarations, and clearance protocols for electronics, apparel, machinery, and regulated goods such as food or medical devices.

Our billing is streamlined by SAMMIE, which matches shipment events with billing data so you receive clear, line-itemized invoices tied directly to shipment milestones and documents.