Shipping Passenger Vehicles from Santo Tomas de Castilla to Long Beach via Ocean Freight

Getting cars for international shipping Requires complete exterior and interior 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 vehicle and customs documentation before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside cars depend on the transport company and lane. 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. 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 cars, specialists 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 auto, 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 restricted and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Most logistics providers 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 car transport, you typically need the original title or registration, 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. We recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

The documentation typically required includes a Bill of Lading, the vehicle's title, proof of ownership, and any necessary customs declarations to comply with both Guatemalan and U.S. regulations.

Yes, automobiles must be securely loaded and properly blocked to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, vehicles should be drained of fuel and any hazardous materials must be removed to comply with maritime safety regulations.

In SAMMIE, shipment data is just a click away, with all data needed to manage shipments available in one dashboard, saving users a tremendous amount of time.

To schedule a demo, simply use the “Request a personalized demo” option provided for the SAMMIE platform.

DNA is more than a logistics provider; we are a family-led business grounded in love, trust, and collaboration, focused on relationships, real-time visibility, and quietly excellent execution rather than attention.