Shipping Passenger Vehicles from Xiaolan to Rotterdam via Ocean Freight

Readying passenger vehicles for international shipping Requires a full wash and dry, removal or securing of all loose items, Checking for fluid leaks, and ensuring the battery is Securely mounted. Most export agents 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 differ between domestic and international moves. 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. We recommend confirming with your carrier in writing and understanding that personal items are often Excluded from insurance, and they can complicate customs inspections.

To reduce moisture and rust risk for automotive cargo, most carriers suggest 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 Enclosed containers wherever possible will significantly cut condensation and corrosion risk.

Standard carrier liability for autos is usually capped and may not reflect the true value of your Car. Insurance brokers 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 Included in the policy.

For international vehicle transport, you typically need clear title documents, 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. We 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 important to ensure that vehicles are properly secured in containers or on roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels to prevent movement during transit. Additionally, vehicles should be cleaned of all personal belongings and have less than a quarter tank of fuel to comply with safety regulations.

The required documentation includes a bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and any necessary export licenses. Customs clearance documentation will also be needed for both China and the Netherlands, which may include a declaration of value and proof of ownership.

You receive smart, preemptive alerts about delays, reroutes, or exceptions so you are notified before you even ask.

Our ocean freight solutions include port-to-door service that covers customs and final-mile delivery.

Our ground transportation solutions include U.S. and Mexico cross-border coverage.