Shipping Vehicles from Shekou to Memphis via Ocean Freight

Readying Autos for international shipping Requires Thorough cleaning, removal or securing of all loose items, inspecting hoses and seals, and ensuring the battery is properly fastened. Most export agents 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 Vary by carrier and route. Many international carriers Prohibit 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. Most experts 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 rust-inhibiting sprays 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. We recommend purchasing comprehensive 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 Emissions or safety compliance documents. Customs specialists recommend checking destination-specific rules well before shipping to avoid delays, extra storage charges, or refusal of entry.

The required documentation typically includes a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary export licenses from China. Additionally, customs documentation for the United States, such as the HS code for automobiles and proof of ownership, is required for clearance.

Automobiles imported into the United States must comply with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. This includes adherence to safety and emission standards, and the vehicle must be properly documented to verify compliance upon arrival in Memphis.

Our customs services include FDA, USDA, and multi-agency support to help you navigate compliance.

Our team works with omnichannel retail, including ecommerce, DTC brands, and big-box retailers with scalable shipping and inventory services.

DNA’s SAMMIE system is an AI-powered “Shipping Analytical Maritime Manager for Imports and Exports” that delivers AI-powered ETAs, “hot” shipment flagging, instant delay alerts, live map tracking, and centralized shipment documents to give you proactive, real-time shipment control.