Home > Agents > Preparing an Auto for Shipment

Information we need to know to quote charges:

• Year, Make, Model
• Please advise if the vehicle does NOT run
• Any additions to the outside of vehicle?
  • Roof racks
  • Roof lights
  • Spare tire carrier on back
  • Extension to height of vehicle (as with a van conversion)
• We need to know if there are oversized tires on the vehicle
  • Tires extending beyond the width of the vehicle
  • Or increasing height of vehicle
• Interior conversions to vehicles
  • Accommodations for cooking or sleeping

When auto books

• Advise shipper to run gas very low before bringing it in for loading
• Advise shipper to remove personal belongings

The only items acceptable for shipment in an automobile are those tools and accessories normally attached to the vehicle, or permanently installed in the dash, doors, rear deck, or console. For example, if not bolted in, the following items should be removed:

Preparation of the vehicle

Prepare a complete vehicle inventory marking all existing conditions and getting the shipper’s signature. Please note the vin #, the mileage, and the license plate information.

Back the vehicle into the container. This makes the customs clearance process much quicker. The Customs officer will be able to check the v.i.n. number without having to squeeze along the side of the vehicle – possibly scratching or scraping the paint, and thus reducing claims.

Get all keys to the vehicle. Customs has to be able to access every area of the vehicle. Tie the key(s) with a ribbon or string to the turn signal or the steering wheel. Do NOT leave the key in the ignition. (If left in the ignition, the shipper may be responsible for payment of a $10,000 fine)

Disconnect the battery cables. Secure their movement and tape the ends. Not disconnecting the battery may also result in a $10,000 fine to the shipper.

Block tires using 4” x 4”s on outside 3 sides of each tire (minimum), and secure the vehicle to the floor of the container using ratchet straps.

Fill out a Hazardous Cargo Declaration for Auto. On your company letterhead, please state:

This is to certify that the motor vehicle included in the above referenced shipment has been prepared as follows:

1. The gasoline in the tank is less than ¼ tank. The amount in the tank is: ______
2. The battery has been disconnected and the battery cable shave been secured to prevent movement and ends taped
3. The vehicle has been blocked and braced
4. No undeclared hazardous materials / dangerus goods ar3e contained in, or secured to the vehicle in this shipment

Sign the above statement and fax this to us along with a copy of the vehicle inventory, and the finals on the shipment.