When shipping a car, motorcycle, or SUV internationally, one of the most common questions customers ask is:
“Can I leave items inside the vehicle?”

The answer depends on shipping method, customs rules, port security regulations, and carrier policies.

Leaving the wrong items inside can lead to customs delays, fines, extra inspections, or rejected shipments — but leaving approved items is usually safe.

This guide explains exactly what is allowed and what is prohibited, according to U.S. Customs, port authorities, and major shipping carriers.

What You Can Leave Inside a Vehicle During Shipping

1. Factory-Installed Items

Anything that came with the vehicle from the manufacturer is allowed.
Examples:

• Spare tire

• Jack and tools

• Built-in screens or electronics

• Owner’s manual

• OEM floor mats

???? Source: CBP classifies factory-installed parts as part of the vehicle and fully allowed.
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export

Small Spare Parts

Examples:

• One set of tires

• A few mechanical parts

• Motorcycle gear (helmet, jacket)

Must be declared on the packing list.

???? Source: Ports require spare parts to be documented for customs clearance.
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export

Soft Accessories

• Seat covers

• Steering wheel covers

• Phone holders

• Cargo nets

Safe because they pose no hazard and have low value.

What You Cannot Leave Inside a Vehicle

1. Electronics & High-Value Items

Prohibited:

• Laptops

• Cameras

• Drones

• Phones

• Tablets

• GPS units

• Gaming consoles

These items attract theft and customs issues.

???? Source: CBP warns against shipping high-value items because they must be declared individually.
https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export

Personal Belongings or Household Goods

Prohibited:

• Clothing

• Shoes

• Boxes

• Bags or luggage

• Food items

• Toys

• Books

Why?
Customs classifies these items as separate cargo requiring different clearance.

???? Source: Major RoRo carriers (WWL, Höegh Autoliners) strictly forbid personal items.
Example: https://www.hoeghautoliners.com/services

Weapons or Restricted Items

Prohibited:

• Firearms

• Ammunition

• Knives

• Pepper spray

These items can cause severe customs penalties.

???? Source: U.S. CBP + destination country customs prohibit undelared weapons in cargo.
https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/firearms-ammunition

Excess Fuel or Leaking Fluids

Fuel tank must be ¼ or less (sometimes ⅛ depending on port).
No fluid leaks allowed.

???? Source: IMDG + port regulations require low fuel level for fire safety.
https://www.imo.org

Commercial Goods

Not allowed:

• Electronics for resale

• Clothing stock

• Boxes of merchandise

• Tools for business

These require commercial import declarations and taxes.

???? Source: WCO Customs Guidelines classify commercial goods separately from personal/vehicle cargo.
https://www.wcoomd.org

How to Prepare Your Vehicle Properly

BEFORE SHIPPING:

✔ Remove personal belongings
✔ Remove electronics
✔ Lower fuel
✔ Clean interior
✔ Secure removable parts
✔ Provide accurate description of any items left inside
✔ Lock the vehicle (for container shipping)

At All Cargo Export, our team checks your vehicle during receiving to ensure it meets all regulations.

At All Cargo Export, we guide every customer through preparation, documentation, and loading to ensure your shipment is compliant, secure, and delivered safely.