Use this checklist before delivering your vehicle to any US export port (Baltimore, Jacksonville, Brunswick, LA, Houston, etc.).
Fuel & mechanical
- ☐ Fuel at ¼ tank or less (RoRo) or empty (container) — confirm with carrier
- ☐ No fuel leaks from tank, lines, or engine
- ☐ Fuel gauge working
- ☐ Vehicle runs, steers, and brakes (RoRo) — or notify forwarder if non-runner
- ☐ Battery charged (RoRo drive-on)
Documentation
- ☐ Original title (or lender letter)
- ☐ Bill of sale / invoice
- ☐ AES/EEI filed if required
- ☐ Export paperwork submitted 72+ business hours before sailing (CBP)
- ☐ Booking confirmation with sailing date and terminal
Vehicle interior (RoRo)
- ☐ No personal belongings — only spare tyre, jack, floor mats
- ☐ No aftermarket LPG, gas cans, or hazardous items
- ☐ Keys provided to terminal / forwarder
Timing
- ☐ Pre-export fuel drain booked 2–5 days before port delivery
- ☐ Inland haulage scheduled to compound before cargo cut-off
- ☐ Emergency contact for forwarder and terminal saved
Arrange pre-export drain: call (866) 777-3712.
US export documentation (related requirements)
Separate from fuel, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires export paperwork validated before sailing. Forwarders typically need:
- Original title (or lender authorisation if financed)
- AES/EEI filing for shipments over US$2,500 value
- 72-hour rule — documentation often must be submitted and validated at least 72 business hours before vessel departure at ports such as Baltimore, Jacksonville, and Brunswick
Fuel compliance and customs compliance are both gate requirements — missing either delays export.