Shipping Passenger Vehicles from San Jose to Honolulu via Ocean Freight

Preparing passenger vehicles for international shipping demands Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, and ensuring the battery is tight and protected. Most export agents 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 do not allow 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. We 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, 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 Temporary corrosion protection to vulnerable metal parts, and choosing sealed equipment 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. We 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 explicitly insured.

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

Required documentation includes a bill of lading, title of the vehicle, proof of ownership, and customs declaration forms for both Costa Rica and the United States to comply with import regulations.

Automobiles must be securely loaded in containers to prevent movement during transit, and it is essential to drain fuel and disconnect the battery to meet safety and regulatory standards during ocean shipping.

Clients can expect a great client experience built on constant visibility, attention to detail, smart technology, data mastery, and a genuine connection with our team.

It means we take our responsibility seriously because people are counting on reliable global logistics, and we align our values, technology, and relationships to deliver on that responsibility.

SAMMIE provides document intelligence that auto-sorts and tags customs, billing, and compliance paperwork, and stores them in a centralized document hub tied to each shipment.