FAQs

What documents are required for delivering my vehicle to the port of loading? Back to Top

Dock Receipt (6 Copies) - This is prepared & provided by ASF upon receipt of your SLI (Shipper's Letter of Instructions).
Original Certificate of Title - As required by U.S. Customs.
Two photocopies of your Certificate of Title - As required by U.S. Customs.

Will U.S. Customs keep my Certificate of Title? Back to Top

No, after customs has reviewed your title for authenticity and check the VIN, they will stamp your title & return it to you. In most ports, your title will be returned to you immediately.

Can I ship my vehicle without having the original Certificate of Title? Back to Top

If your vehicle is leased or being financed, you must receive an original letter from your leasing company or financial institution authorizing the shipment of the vehicle overseas. This letter must include the year, make, model & VIN of the vehicle being shipped. This letter of authorization must be accompanied by a copy of the Certificate of Title.
If you are purchasing a brand new vehicle from a car dealership, you may use the Certificate of Origin (also known as an MSO) which will be provided by the car dealership. This would be used in lieu of the Certificate of Title.
If your local DMV does not issue a Certificates of Title due to the age of your vehicle, documentation from your local DMV confirming their policy along with the original document which shows the basis for ownership or right of possession, such as a bill of sale, and two copies of that original document will be accepted by U.S. Customs. Further, the owner must certify in writing to U.S. Customs that the procurement of the vehicle was a bona fide transaction, and that the vehicle presented for export is not stolen.
If you are a member of the armed services, a copy of your orders will also be accepted by U.S. Customs in lieu of the original Certificate of Title. A copy of the title will also be needed with the orders.

Can someone else deliver the vehicle to the port on my behalf? Back to Top

Yes, anyone who is in possession of the above documents may deliver the vehicle to the port of loading.

Can All Shore Forwarders arrange to deliver my vehicle(s) to the port on my behalf if I am unable to? Back to Top

Yes, we are able to collect your vehicle from any point in the continental United States & deliver it to the port by either an open or an enclosed car carrier. Please let us know if you require this service so we may provide you with the applicable costs.

What do I do with my Certificate of Title if All Shore Forwarders is arranging to have my car transported to the port of loading?
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U.S. Customs regulations differ in many ports and depending on the port that your vehicle will be shipped from, you may have to provide the title to the driver or you may have to forward the title to our office. You will receive specific instructions from our office prior to the collection of your vehicle. In either case, we will return your Certificate of Title to you via FEDEX Courier once it has been processed by U.S. Customs.

If I am shipping my car in a container, can I load the car into the container myself? Back to Top

Although, we do not recommend doing so, we can deliver the container to you for loading. However, the container is on a chassis with wheels and therefore, the container is approximately 4' above the ground. You would need to hire a tilt back tow truck in order to be able to have your car meet the height of the container.

If I am shipping my household goods in a container, can I load the container myself? Back to Top

Yes, the most economical method of shipping your personal effects & household goods is to pack and load the container yourself. Most clients do choose this method. Of course, if you prefer, we can arrange to have professional packers come to your home to pack your belongings and then load the container.

Should I expect to pay any charges at the overseas port of discharge? Back to Top

Yes, all ports asses a fee which is known as a terminal handling charge. The amount of the fee varies between ports. The terminal handling charge for an automobile is approximately $50.00 - $150.00. The terminal handling charge for 20' & 40' containers is approximately $200.00 - $400.00.