Shipping Autos from Seattle to Prince Rupert via Ocean Freight

Readying cars for international shipping necessitates complete exterior and interior cleaning, 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 ownership and customs paperwork 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 accept light belongings 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 auto, 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. Most logistics providers 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 evidence the vehicle meets local standards. Most freight forwarders 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, commercial invoice, and proof of ownership. Additionally, customs declarations must be completed for both U.S. and Canadian customs, including any necessary import permits.

Yes, automobiles should be properly secured in containers or on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent movement during transit. It is also important to ensure that fuel levels are below the maximum allowable limit and that the vehicles are prepared for potential exposure to ocean conditions.

SAMMIE’s shipment intelligence tools surface trends, spot delays, and enable you to run exportable reports, while the system learns from every shipment to improve the next one.

Our system supports your customer communication by allowing you to quickly and efficiently update your customers on their shipments and providing the visibility and data needed to meet the customer service your clients expect.

You may review our broader offering when you visit the section to explore DNA Supply Chain’s complete logistics services.