Vehicle Shipping Instructions

Following these instructions will help ensure the successful transport of your vehicle aboard a TOTE vessel.

 

Prohibited Items

The shipment of firearms, ammunition, hazardous material and explosives in any vehicle is prohibited. For detailed information, click here.

 

General Condition

Before tendering a vehicle for shipment, be sure to:

  • Wash it to make sure it is clean enough for suitable inspection to determine any pre-existing damage.
  • Disconnect sensitive car alarms prior to arrival at the terminal.
  • Winterize it to minus 40 degrees - Vehicles received for shipment must have radiators and batteries adequately protected from freezing.
  • Make sure it has no more than one quarter (1/4) tank of fuel.

 

Operating Condition

Please call TOTE if your vehicle is inoperable or not in safe operating condition. The definition of safe operating condition includes, but is not limited to:

  • Fully operative brakes
  • Fully operative steering mechanism
  • Self-propelled, where that is the normal mode of operation for the vehicle
  • All tires properly inflated to manufacturer’s recommended operating pressure
  • Power transmission / driveline connected and operating

Vehicles that are not in safe operating condition when tendered to TOTE will be considered disabled and shipped (typically on a flatbed trailer) under the charges and provisions of Disabled or No Start Vehicles in TOTE Tariff STB 300-C, Item 987. TOTE may refuse to accept a vehicle if its condition is considered too dangerous for shipment.


Fuel

Vehicles may have no more than one-quarter (1/4) tank of combustible fuel. This is a non-negotiable, US Coast Guard Regulation, so please take this into consideration when getting ready to ship.

Vehicles equipped with propane tanks for auxiliary uses must be delivered for shipment with the tank valves securely closed with tape or zip-tie. All propane-powered vehicles must be stowed on the main deck of the vessel. When booking your propane vehicle, please request main deck stow.


Personal Effects

Up to 15 pounds of personal effects may be loaded inside the vehicle at no additional charge. Please call our Quote Department at (253) 449-8248 or (800) 426-0074 for charges applicable to more than 15 pounds.

It is strongly recommended that you leave nothing of significant value in the vehicle, and that all personal effects be properly boxed in sealed containers and secured for shipment. TOTE's liability for personal effects is subject to a maximum value of $0.10 per pound. If you should require additional cargo liability coverage, please contact our Claims Department at 1-800-426-0074.

 

Special Equipment Attached to Vehicles

TOTE will not accept responsibility or liability for loss or damage to special equipment on motor vehicles unless the shipper completes and signs the motor vehicle questionnaires on TOTE's Bill of Lading at the time the vehicle is offered for shipment.


Port locations and office hours:

Tacoma, WA vehicle gate:
8am-3pm, M-F

500 E Alexander Ave
Tacoma, WA 98421

 

Anchorage, AK vehicle gate:
M, T, W, F 8am-5pm, Th 1pm-5pm

2511 Tidewater Rd
Anchorage, AK 99501