Shipping Autos from San Jose to Valparaiso via Ocean Freight

Readying Autos for international shipping Requires a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, and ensuring the battery is properly fastened. We 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 Vary by carrier and route. 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. Customs advisors 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, 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 covered carriers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually Limited and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Insurance brokers 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 covered under the same certificate.

For international vehicle 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 homologation or conformity certificates. Most freight forwarders recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

Required documentation typically includes the original vehicle title, registration, proof of ownership, and a bill of lading. Additionally, customs forms must be completed for both Costa Rica and Chile, including any necessary import permits and taxes.

Seasonal weather patterns, such as the rainy season, can affect port operations and shipping conditions. It is important to monitor weather forecasts and potential disruptions that may arise during these periods.

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

Our team delivers fast, secure air freight solutions with expedited and economy air options, airport-to-door coordination, consolidation, customs pre-clearance, and full visibility with live alerts and 24/7 tracking.

Our team ensures scalable capacity for seasonal spikes as part of our ground transportation solutions.