Dernière mise à jour : 22 octobre 2026

The UK is one of the biggest sources of used cars for Africa. Every week, ro-ro ships and container vessels leave Tilbury, Southampton, Portbury and Liverpool carrying cars to West, East and Southern Africa. Whether you are sending a car to family, relocating, or exporting a vehicle to sell, this guide explains how shipping a car from the UK to Africa works.

Ro-ro or container?

Typical costs and transit times from the UK

Prices depend on vehicle size, season and port charges. Destination duties and clearing fees are extra and can be higher than the shipping cost.

Import rules: check before you buy

Every country has its own rules, and they change. Common rules include:

• Age limits. Kenya restricts most imported used cars to those under eight years old from their first registration year. Some countries charge penalties for older vehicles. Ghana has applied heavy penalties to cars over ten years old.
• Right-hand drive. Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe drive on the left, so UK cars suit them. Ghana and Nigeria drive on the right, and Ghana restricts right-hand-drive imports. This is a critical check before shipping.
• Roadworthiness inspections. Kenya requires a pre-shipment inspection in the UK through an approved inspection company.
• Afrique du Sud has very strict import controls. Used cars generally need a permit, and returning residents and immigrants must meet specific conditions.
• Duties and taxes can easily exceed the value of an older car. Get an estimate from a clearing agent at destination before you ship.

Paperwork you will need

• V5C logbook (the original), plus proof of ownership or a bill of sale
• DVLA export notification. Fill in the “permanent export” section of the V5C.
• Passport copy and the consignee’s details at destination
• Pre-shipment inspection certificate, where required
• Bill of lading, issued by the shipping line

Step by step

1. Check the import rules for the vehicle’s age, drive side and duty.
2. Get 2–3 shipping quotes and ask exactly what each one includes.
3. Book an inspection if your destination requires one.
4. Deliver the car to the port or arrange collection.
5. Send the documents to your clearing agent at destination.
6. Pay duties and collect the car after customs clearance.

Can I go with the car?

Some ro-ro and container lines that sail to West Africa have historically carried a small number of passengers. Availability changes, and these voyages suit experienced, flexible travellers. Read our guide to shipping lines that take passengers et notre cargo ship travel guide.

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