Vehicle Shipping From the UK to Botswana

Shipping Your Car from the UK to Botswana: Your Comprehensive Guide

Botswana, a jewel of Southern Africa known for its vast wildlife reserves and stunning natural landscapes, is an increasingly popular destination for those relocating or embarking on adventurous journeys. If you’re planning to ship your vehicle from the UK to Botswana, understanding the process, regulations, and logistical complexities is crucial. ShipCars.co.uk specialises in facilitating secure and efficient vehicle shipping, primarily utilising transit ports like Walvis Bay in Namibia and Cape Town in South Africa. This guide provides all the essential information for shipping your car, whether via RoRo, dedicated container, or shared container services.

Your Vehicle Shipping Options to Botswana

We offer flexible shipping solutions tailored to your needs when sending your vehicle to Botswana. Due to Botswana’s landlocked nature, vehicles are typically shipped to major coastal ports and then transported overland. Our primary transit ports and methods include:

• Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping: An economical method for drivable vehicles, usually destined for Walvis Bay, Namibia.

• Dedicated Container Shipping: Exclusive use of a container, suitable for drivable or non-working vehicles, often delivered to Cape Town, South Africa, for onward transport.

1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping to Walvis Bay, Namibia

RoRo is a popular and cost-effective shipping method where your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised vessel and securely stowed in a dedicated vehicle deck. Walvis Bay is the primary transit port for RoRo services destined for overland transport into Botswana.

• Destination Port: Primarily Walvis Bay, Namibia. From Walvis Bay, you will arrange for onward overland transport to Botswana.

• Price: Indicative prices for RoRo shipping to Walvis Bay:

  • Small vehicles (e.g., a VW Golf): Approximately £1095.

  • Larger vehicles (e.g., a Range Rover): Approximately £1159.

  • These are indicative prices and can vary based on vehicle size, current freight rates, and specific vessel tariffs.

• Transit Time: The sea journey from the UK to Walvis Bay typically ranges from 25 to 35 days.

• Frequency: RoRo services to Walvis Bay generally operate on a monthly basis. Schedules are confirmed at the time of booking.

• Link to RoRo Page: For detailed information on our RoRo shipping process, benefits, and preparation guidelines, please visit our dedicated RoRo Shipping Page.

Rules for RoRo Shipping (to Walvis Bay for Botswana):

• Vehicle Condition: The vehicle must be in a fully operational and drivable condition. It should have sufficient fuel for loading and unloading, typically no more than a quarter tank.

• Personal Belongings: Absolutely NO personal belongings, accessories, spare parts, or any other items are permitted inside the vehicle. The vehicle must be completely empty. Failure to comply may result in significant delays, additional charges, or the shipment being refused entry.

• Hybrid Vehicles: Generally allowed.

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): NOT ALLOWED on RoRo services due to safety regulations concerning high-capacity lithium-ion batteries.

• Modifications: Standard vehicles are accepted. Significant modifications may require special assessment.

• Keys: One complete set of vehicle keys is required.

• Registration: The vehicle must be registered and roadworthy in the UK.

2. Container Shipping to Cape Town for Botswana Transit

Container shipping offers enhanced security and flexibility, suitable for a wider range of vehicles, including those that are not operational. Vehicles shipped to Cape Town will require overland transport to Botswana.

• Destination Port: Primarily Cape Town, South Africa, for onward overland transport to Botswana.

• Dedicated Container: You reserve a full 20ft or 40ft container solely for your vehicle and any accompanying items. This provides the highest level of security.

  • Price: For a standard car in a 20ft container, expect costs to start from approximately £1395. Prices vary based on container size and current market rates.

  • Transit Time: The sea journey to Cape Town typically takes between 30 to 40 days.

  • Frequency: Dedicated container departures are generally available weekly or bi-weekly.

• Shared Container (Groupage): Your vehicle is loaded into a container alongside other vehicles. This is a more economical option, balancing cost with security.

  • Price:

    • Small cars: Approximately £1100.

    • Larger vehicles: Approximately £1300.

    • These prices are indicative and depend on vehicle size and demand.

  • Transit Time: Due to the consolidation process, transit times are typically 35 to 45 days.

  • Frequency: Shared containers usually depart on a monthly or bi-monthly basis.

• Vehicle Condition for Container Shipping: Critically, vehicles do not need to be working for container or shared container services. Our experienced team will ensure non-running vehicles are safely winched and secured within the container.

• Hybrid Vehicles: Generally allowed.

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): Allowed, but a hazard surcharge of £295 typically applies due to battery regulations.

• Link to Container Page: Discover the benefits and security features of our container shipping solutions on our Container Shipping Page.

Destination Rules, Inspections, and Permits for Botswana

Botswana has specific import regulations for vehicles, managed by the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) and the Department of Road Transport and Safety. Note that requirements may also be influenced by the transit country (Namibia or South Africa).

Rules for Botswana:

• Authorities:

  • Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS): Manages customs duties and taxes. Website: www.burs.org.bw (Look for customs or import sections).

  • Department of Road Transport and Safety (DRTS): Oversees vehicle registration and roadworthiness. Website: Search for “Department of Road Transport and Safety Botswana”.

• Right-Hand Drive: Botswana drives on the left. Vehicles must be right-hand drive.

• Compliance: Vehicles must meet Botswana’s roadworthiness standards.

Inspections and Permits:

1. Pre-Shipment Inspection: A pre-shipment inspection certificate is mandatory for all used vehicles imported into Botswana. This is typically conducted by an 

2. independent inspection agency appointed by the Botswana government (e.g., Intertek). The inspection verifies the vehicle’s condition, roadworthiness, and compliance. You must obtain this certificate before the vehicle is shipped.

3. Import Permit: An Import Permit is generally required for importing a vehicle into Botswana. This should be obtained from the Ministry of Transport and Communications or relevant authority before shipment.

4. Customs Clearance: Upon arrival at the transit port (Walvis Bay or Cape Town), the vehicle will undergo customs processing. Once in Botswana, further clearance will be required.

5. Roadworthiness Inspection: After clearing customs and arriving in Botswana, the vehicle will need to pass a local roadworthiness inspection by the DRTS to be registered.

Paperwork Required: UK & Botswana (with Transit Port Considerations)

Accurate documentation is crucial for UK export, transit port clearance, and final import into Botswana.

In the UK (Origin):

1. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C (logbook), bill of sale, or equivalent.

2. Photo Identification: A clear copy of your passport’s photo page.

3. Completed Shipping Booking Form: Provided by ShipCars.co.uk.

4. Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (Botswana Requirement): Obtained from an approved agency abroad.

5. Import Permit (Botswana Requirement): Obtained from Botswana authorities before shipping.

6. Vehicle Condition Report:

   • Free of charge if we collect your vehicle using our transporter or trade plate service.

7. UK Export Declaration: We will manage this process on your behalf.

At Transit Port (Walvis Bay / Cape Town):

• Documentation required for customs and port clearance in the transit country (Namibia or South Africa), which will be handled by our agents or your appointed destination agent. This typically includes:

  • Bill of Lading.

  • Proof of Ownership.

  • Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate.

  • Import Permit.

In Botswana (Destination):

1. Original Bill of Lading.

2. Customs Declaration Forms (Botswana).

3. Proof of Ownership (UK V5C).

4. Passport / ID / Residency Documents.

5. Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate.

6. Botswana Import Permit.

7. Proof of Botswana Motor Vehicle Insurance.

8. Registration Documents: After passing a local roadworthiness inspection by the DRTS.

9. Import Duty and Tax Payment Proof.

Ports We Ship To and Overland Transit

We use key coastal ports for shipping, with onward overland transport arranged to Botswana.

RoRo Shipping (to Walvis Bay for Botswana):

• Primary Transit Port: Walvis Bay, Namibia.

• Price:

  • Small cars (Golf): Approx. £1095.

  • Large vehicles (Range Rover): Approx. £1159.

• Transit Time: Approx. 25 to 35 days (sea voyage). Overland transport to Botswana adds additional days.

• Frequency: Monthly.

Container Shipping (to Cape Town for Botswana Transit):

• Primary Transit Port: Cape Town, South Africa.

• Dedicated Container:

  • Price: Approx. £1395 (standard car).

  • Transit Time: Approx. 30 to 40 days (sea voyage). Overland transport to Botswana adds additional days.

  • Frequency: Weekly or Bi-weekly.

• Shared Container:

  • Price: Approx. £1100 (small car), £1300 (big car).

  • Transit Time: Approx. 35 to 45 days (sea voyage). Overland transport to Botswana adds additional days.

  • Frequency: Monthly or Bi-monthly.

Overland Transport: Please note that the transit times quoted for sea freight do not include the overland journey from Walvis Bay or Cape Town to your final destination within Botswana. This leg typically takes an additional 3 to 7 days, depending on the destination and border crossing times.

Duty and Tax in Botswana

Botswana imposes import duties and taxes on used vehicles. These are calculated by BURS.

• Customs Duty: This varies significantly based on the vehicle’s age, engine capacity, and origin. For used vehicles imported by individuals, rates can range from 20% to 60% or more.

• VAT (Value Added Tax): Currently 14%, applied to the CIF value (Cost of vehicle + Insurance + Freight) plus any applicable Customs Duty.

• Other Levies: There may be additional minor charges or fees.

• Returning Residents: Botswanan citizens returning permanently after residing abroad for a minimum period (typically 2 years) may be eligible for concessions on duties and taxes. Strict documentation is required to prove eligibility.

Recommendation: It is highly advisable to engage a Botswanan clearing agent or a logistics partner who specialises in overland transit from South Africa/Namibia to Botswana. They can provide precise duty and tax calculations and manage the import process.

UK Collection Services

To ensure a smooth start to your vehicle’s journey, we offer convenient collection services across the UK:

• Transporter Collection: For vehicles that are not roadworthy, or if you simply prefer a secure door-to-door service, we can arrange for a professional vehicle transporter to collect your car from your UK address and deliver it safely to the departure port or our loading depot.

• Trade Plate Driver: For vehicles that are fully operational and have a valid UK MOT, we can dispatch a professional driver using trade plates. They will collect your vehicle and drive it to the port or our depot. Please note: For trade plate collection, the vehicle MUST have a valid MOT and be fully operational.

• Self-Delivery: You are welcome to deliver your vehicle directly to our designated loading depot. A £35 fee will apply for the condition report in this instance.

Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Compatibility

We handle modern electric and hybrid vehicles with specific procedures:

• Hybrid Vehicles:

  • RoRo (to Walvis Bay): Generally allowed.

  • Container (to Cape Town): Generally allowed.

• Electric Vehicles (EVs):

  • RoRo (to Walvis Bay): NOT ALLOWED due to safety regulations concerning high-capacity lithium-ion batteries.

  • Container (to Cape Town): Allowed, but a hazard surcharge of £295 typically applies due to battery regulations.

  • Battery Charge: EVs usually require their battery charge to be below a certain percentage (e.g., 40-50%) for shipping, and the vehicle must be accurately declared.

Loading Goods with Your Vehicle

The ability to ship personal items or goods alongside your vehicle differs based on the service chosen:

• RoRo Service (to Walvis Bay): Strictly NO personal belongings or any other items are permitted inside the vehicle. The vehicle must be completely empty. Any items found will result in delays, additional charges, or refusal of shipment.

• Container Service (to Cape Town): YES, personal belongings and goods can be packed inside the vehicle. This is a significant advantage of container shipping. However, all items must be accurately declared, and certain goods are prohibited (see “What’s Not Allowed” section below).

Insurance and Risk Coverage

Protecting your vehicle during its long journey from the UK to Botswana is essential. We offer comprehensive insurance options:

• Total Loss Cover (1% of Value):

  • Cost: 1% of the declared vehicle value + shipping costs.

  • Coverage: Covers total loss of the vehicle due to major incidents such as fire damage or water damage during transit.

• Comprehensive Cover (1.5% of Value):

  • Cost: 1.5% of the declared vehicle value + shipping costs.

  • Coverage: This premium cover extends to cosmetic damage (scratches, minor dents) in addition to total loss from fire or water damage.

  • Vehicle Age Limit: The vehicle cannot be older than 10 years to qualify for this comprehensive cover.

  • Condition Report: A detailed condition report is mandatory for comprehensive cover.

    • Free of charge if we collect your vehicle using our transporter or trade plate service.

    • A fee of £35 applies if you deliver the vehicle to our depot, for us to conduct the condition report.

Important: Ensure you declare an accurate market value for your vehicle, including shipping and insurance costs, to guarantee adequate coverage. If you decline our insurance options, your vehicle will be shipped at your own risk.

What’s Not Allowed to Ship (Prohibited Items) and Restrictions

Botswana, and its transit countries, have strict regulations regarding imports. Adherence is mandatory.

Prohibited Items (Cannot be shipped inside or with the vehicle):

• Food Items: Most food products are prohibited due to agricultural and biosecurity regulations.

• Plants and Plant Products: Seeds, soil, plant matter, or wooden items are highly restricted.

• Flammable or Explosive Materials: Including extra fuel canisters, fireworks, ammunition.

• Illegal Substances/Drugs: Any illegal narcotics or controlled substances.

• Firearms and Weapons: Unless specific permits and strict declarations are made and approved by Botswana authorities.

• Hazardous Chemicals: Corrosives, toxic materials.

• Cash and High-Value Items: Large sums of money, precious metals, jewellery, or portable high-value electronics should not be packed inside the vehicle. Transport these items separately and insured.

• Second-hand Tyres: Generally prohibited for import into Botswana.

Restricted Items (Require Declaration; May Have Limits or Specific Handling):

• Personal Effects (Container Service Only): All items must be declared. Some items may be subject to import restrictions or duties.

• Vehicle Fuel: Fuel tanks must be less than a quarter full for all services.

• Vehicle Fluids: Standard operating fluids are acceptable, but excessive amounts or hazardous fluids are not permitted.

• Batteries (EVs): Specific regulations regarding battery charge levels and condition apply. A hazard surcharge is mandatory for container shipping.

Crucial Advice: Thoroughly clean your vehicle, especially the undercarriage, wheel arches, and interior, to remove any soil, plant matter, or organic material before shipping. This is vital for passing biosecurity checks at transit ports. When in doubt about any item, declare it or consult with your clearing agent.

Cost Breakdown: What Contributes to the Price

The total cost of shipping your vehicle from the UK to Botswana is influenced by several key elements:

1. Shipping Line Freight Charges: The base cost for the sea voyage, determined by service type (RoRo, dedicated/shared container), destination port, vehicle size, and prevailing market rates.

2. UK Port Fees: Terminal handling, documentation, security, and agency fees charged at the UK departure port.

3. UK Collection & Loading Costs:

   • Transporter or Trade Plate driver fees (if applicable).

   • Depot handling and administration fees.

   • Container loading and securing costs (for container services).

   • Condition report fee (if self-delivered to our depot).

4. Marine Insurance Premium: The cost of your chosen insurance cover (1% or 1.5%).

5. UK Export Documentation & Customs: Fees for processing export declarations.

6. EV Hazard Surcharge: The £295 surcharge for shipping electric vehicles in containers.

7. Transit Port Charges: Terminal handling, customs processing, and agency fees in Walvis Bay or Cape Town.

8. Overland Transport Costs: The cost of transporting the vehicle from the transit port (Walvis Bay or Cape Town) to your final destination in Botswana. This is a significant component.

9. Botswana Import Charges:

   • Customs Duty, VAT, and any other applicable taxes and levies.

   • Clearing agent fees in Botswana.

   • Vehicle registration and roadworthiness inspection fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship my non-working car to Botswana? 

Yes, non-working vehicles can be shipped using dedicated or shared container services to Cape Town, with onward overland transport. RoRo shipping to Walvis Bay requires the vehicle to be in fully operational and drivable condition.

What are the main requirements for importing a car to Botswana?

You need a Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate and an Import Permit from Botswana authorities before shipping. The vehicle must also be right-hand drive and pass local roadworthiness checks for registration.

How much does it cost to ship a car to Botswana?

Shipping costs vary: RoRo to Walvis Bay for small cars is approx. £1095, larger vehicles £1159. Container services to Cape Town start around £1100 for shared (small car) up to £1395+ for dedicated containers. Crucially, these prices do not include overland transport to Botswana, import duties, taxes, or local clearance fees, which can be substantial.

Do I need insurance?

While not legally mandatory for the sea voyage, comprehensive marine insurance is highly recommended. We offer total loss cover at 1% and comprehensive cover (including cosmetic damage for vehicles under 10 years) at 1.5%.

Can I put personal items in my car?

Yes, if you use a container service to Cape Town. Certain sailings allow personal items in vehicles shipped via RoRo to Walvis Bay. All items in must be declared.

Shipping your vehicle from the UK to Botswana involves multiple stages, from sea freight to overland transit, and requires meticulous attention to regulatory requirements. ShipCars.co.uk is dedicated to providing expert guidance and reliable services to navigate these complexities. For precise quotes that include estimated overland costs, to discuss your specific vehicle and needs, or to receive a personalised shipping plan, please contact our experienced team today.

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