Shipping Cars from Seattle to New Orleans via Ocean Freight

Readying cars for international shipping necessitates Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, verifying there are no active leaks, and ensuring the battery is properly fastened. Logistics providers recommend leaving about a quarter tank of fuel, fully charging the battery, documenting existing damage with photos, and providing all required Titles and export documents before the carrier collects the vehicle.

Rules on shipping personal items inside vehicles depend on the transport company and lane. Many international carriers restrict 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 not covered by standard cargo policies, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for automotive cargo, 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 vapor inhibitors 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 restricted and may not reflect the true value of your passenger vehicle. 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 covered under the same certificate.

For international vehicle transport, you typically need the original title or registration, a value statement, 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.

When shipping automobiles via ocean freight, it is essential to ensure that vehicles are properly secured in containers to prevent movement and damage during transit. Additionally, vehicles should be clean and free of personal belongings to comply with customs regulations.

Required documentation includes a bill of lading, a vehicle title, and a customs declaration form. Ensure that all documents are accurately completed to facilitate the customs clearance process at both the departure and arrival ports.

You can expect a dedicated Client Success Officer who oversees your freight, solves problems proactively, and keeps you informed throughout each shipment.

Our team believes this because a single shipment is enough for shippers to experience our AI-powered visibility, proactive issue management, and partner-level support, and to see how we differ from larger, less responsive forwarders.

Yes, we fully support high-volume and enterprise shippers by offering scalable services, custom EDI/API integrations, and expert client support for complex operations.