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Guide, Requirements, and Tips for Shipping Cars Between Islands
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Cargo · June 3, 2026

Guide, Requirements, and Tips for Shipping Cars Between Islands

Take note! 5 requirements and tips for shipping cars between islands in Indonesia

Shipping cars between islands can now be done easily with the help of shipping services

If you choose to ship the car yourself, you need to prepare the car and load it into a container. 

If you don't follow certain rules, it can result in additional charges for car shipping, and may even stop the car shipping. 

In this article, ABC Express will discuss how to load a car into a container, shipping requirements, and tips for shipping cars between islands.


Shipping Cars Between Islands with a Container

Ensure the car is clean

Clean the car inside and out. A car in clean condition will make it easier for us to see the actual condition of the car. Check if there are any scratches or dents on the car before loading it into the container and shipping it.


Take Photos of the Car's Exterior

After the car is clean, take photos of the exterior condition of the car. Make sure all parts are photographed and no exterior parts are missed.

This documentation is intended to ensure that the condition of the car after shipping is the same as before it was shipped, meaning there is no other damage caused by the journey.

Secure Items Before Shipping the Car

Make a list of all items that are in the car during shipping, such as air conditioning, speedometer, car seats, steering wheel, pedals, and other equipment.

Be sure to remove personal items (such as clothes, papers, and trash), non-factory electronics such as GPS systems, and anything stored in the trunk.

 Remove Exterior Components

If the car is being shipped by a car shipping service, it's best to remove removable components such as mirrors, antennas, and others. Once again, you definitely don't want any damage during the shipping process.

Check Fluids Before Shipping the Car

Check the condition of the fuel tank and battery, make sure the fuel tank is not loose and does not leak.


Things to Remember When Loading a Car into a Container

  • Remove or disconnect the radio antenna to prevent damage
  • Fold the side mirrors on the outside of the car.
  • Containers with camper shells can add extra charges. Especially if the car has modifications that make it heavier.
  • Always install the convertible top on convertible cars.
  • Fill the car's fuel tank appropriately. Disconnect the battery and alarm system.
  • Don't leave vehicle documents inside the car. You may need them as proof of ownership.
  • Lock the wheels from the front, rear, and sides with wooden blocks or wheel chocks. Make sure to securely install the wheels to the container.


Renting a flatbed tow truck can save a lot of time and effort when loading the car into the container. 

Although it becomes an additional cost for the shipper, the risk of the car not fitting into the container is lower. 

Read: Steps to Ship Vehicle Spare Parts


Documents and Requirements for Inter-Island Car Shipping


ID Card Photocopy


ID card photocopy is used as proof of identity. This document is mandatory for various car shipping needs.

Especially since the item being shipped has high value, careful attention must be paid to the shipping process and documentation. 


Family Card Photocopy

In addition to the ID card, a photocopy of the family card is also required as a supporting identification document in the inter-island car shipping process.


Vehicle Ownership Certificate Photocopy 

Prepare a photocopy of the original vehicle ownership certificate. The data on the vehicle ownership certificate photocopy must be synchronized or match the owner's identity. 


Have Original Vehicle Registration

Vehicle registration is a document that must be owned by every motor vehicle owner. Vehicle registration is required as a condition to prove that the vehicle being shipped is personal property and not stolen.


Pickup Address and Destination

The requirement data submitted at the time of shipping will be checked again. If the requirements match the ownership identity and the pickup address matches the destination, the shipping process will proceed smoothly.


Conclusion

There are many conventional methods for shipping cars from one place to another. Because transporting vehicles is a complex matter, moving the car in a container is the most ideal choice for delivering your car safely.

Arranging inter-island car shipping is now easier because you can order trucks via the internet. Just contact ABC Express assistant, and you can directly order the type of truck you need according to your needs via WhatsApp.

Contact ABC Express Our team is ready and willing to answer any questions you have and ship your items.

Learn more about ABC Express Services!