Cameroon

Shipping Your Car to Cameroon: The Ultimate Guide for UK Exporters

Cameroon, often called “Africa in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes and cultures, presents exciting opportunities for business and personal relocation. For those looking to export their vehicle from the United Kingdom to this vibrant Central African nation, understanding the shipping process is key. ShipCars.co.uk specialises in Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) car shipping services to Douala, Cameroon, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and efficiently.

This comprehensive guide, written in UK English, provides all the essential information you need to know for shipping your car to Cameroon, from documentation and regulations to costs and transit times.

Your Vehicle Shipping Option: RoRo to Cameroon

For most vehicles, Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is the most cost-effective and popular method for transporting cars to Cameroon.

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping Explained

RoRo is a specialised maritime transport service where vehicles are driven directly onto and off purpose-built vessels. Your car is then securely stowed within the ship’s car decks for its journey.

• Service We Offer: ShipCars.co.uk offers reliable RoRo services to Cameroon.

• Primary Port of Arrival: The main international port for vehicle imports in Cameroon is Douala.

• Transit Time: The sea journey from the UK to Douala typically takes between 25 to 35 days, depending on the vessel’s schedule and route.

• Frequency: RoRo sailings to Douala are generally scheduled on a fortnightly (every two weeks) basis. Sailing schedules are confirmed at the time of booking to provide the most accurate departure and arrival dates.

• Link to RoRo Page: For more detailed information about our RoRo services, benefits, and how the process works, please visit our dedicated RoRo Shipping Page.

Destination Rules, Inspections, and Permits for Cameroon

Cameroon has specific import regulations for vehicles to manage traffic, ensure safety, and collect revenue. It’s crucial to comply with these rules to avoid delays or penalties.

Key Authorities and Regulations:

• Cameroon Customs (Direction Générale des Douanes): This is the primary authority for customs clearance, duties, and taxes.

  • Website: While a comprehensive English-language official government portal can be elusive, information is often disseminated through their official communications and port authorities. It’s advisable to consult with a local clearing agent in Douala for the most up-to-date details.

• Ministry of Transport: Oversees vehicle registration and roadworthiness standards.

• Ministry of Commerce: May have regulations related to imported goods.

Inspection and Permit Requirements:

1. Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (BISC):

   • Requirement: Most vehicles imported into Cameroon require a Bilingual Inspection Certificate of Conformity (BISC), also known as a Certificat de Ensurance et de Conformité. This is often a mandatory document.

   • Issuing Body: This certificate is typically issued by an approved inspection agency appointed by the Cameroonian government (e.g., BUREAU VERITAS is commonly used for many African nations, but confirmation for Cameroon’s current approved agency is essential).

   • Purpose: The BISC verifies that the vehicle meets specific quality, quantity, and price criteria, and importantly, that it meets certain age and roadworthiness standards.

   • Age Restrictions: Vehicles older than 10 years are generally not allowed for import into Cameroon. This is a critical rule to be aware of.

2. Vehicle Roadworthiness: While the BISC covers some aspects, a vehicle must be in generally good mechanical condition to pass customs and be registered.

3. Import Permit: While not always a pre-shipment permit in the same way as some other countries, the BISC often serves as the primary compliance document. However, specific import authorisations might be required depending on the vehicle type and importer’s status. It’s best to confirm this with your designated clearing agent in Douala.

Paperwork Required: UK and Cameroon

Accurate and complete documentation is vital for a smooth shipping and customs clearance process.

In the UK (Origin):

1. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C (logbook) or equivalent proof of registration and ownership.

2. Bill of Sale: If the vehicle has been recently purchased.

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

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

5. Vehicle Condition Report:

   • This report is provided 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.

6. BISC Application: You can get obtain the Bilingual Inspection Certificate of Conformity (BISC) from the approved agency. This will require details about the vehicle and its value.

In Cameroon (Destination – Douala Port):

1. Bill of Lading: The original or electronic version provided by the shipping line.

2. Bilingual Inspection Certificate of Conformity (BISC): The original certificate.

3. Import Declaration (Declarant en Douane): This is prepared by your customs clearing agent in Douala.

4. Proof of Ownership: Original UK V5C, Bill of Sale.

5. Shipping Invoice: Detailing the cost of the vehicle and shipping.

6. Packing List: If you have managed to load any permitted goods inside the vehicle (see restrictions).

7. Import Duty and Tax Payment Receipts.

8. National Identification: A copy of the importer’s national ID or passport.

9. Vehicle Registration Documents: For eventual registration in Cameroon.

Note: It is highly recommended to engage a reputable customs clearing agent in Douala well in advance of your vehicle’s arrival to ensure all local requirements are met smoothly.

Ports, Prices, Transit Times, and Frequency

ShipCars.co.uk focuses on providing efficient RoRo services to Cameroon’s primary port.

Ports We Ship To:

• Douala: This is the principal seaport and economic capital of Cameroon, serving as the main gateway for vehicle imports.

Pricing, Transit Time, and Frequency:

Below is an indicative guide. For precise, up-to-the-minute quotes based on your specific vehicle and travel dates, please contact us directly.

Please Note:

• These prices are for RoRo sea freight from UK ports to Douala port only.

• They do not include UK collection, marine insurance, BISC application fees, UK export documentation, or any Cameroonian import duties, taxes, port fees, or local clearing agent charges.

• Prices are subject to change based on fuel surcharges, currency fluctuations, and prevailing shipping line rates.

UK Collection Services

To ensure convenience and safety, we offer flexible collection options across the UK:

• Transporter Collection: We can arrange for your vehicle to be collected by a professional car transporter from your home or business address anywhere in the UK. This is ideal for non-running vehicles or for added peace of mind.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid UK MOT certificate, we can dispatch a driver with trade plates to collect it. Crucially, for trade plate collection, the vehicle MUST be roadworthy, have a valid MOT, and be in fully operational condition.

• Self-Delivery: You are welcome to deliver your vehicle directly to our designated loading depot. If you choose this option, a fee of £35 will apply for us to conduct and document the required condition report.

Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Compatibility for RoRo

When shipping via RoRo to Cameroon, please note the following regarding different vehicle types:

• Hybrid Vehicles: Generally ALLOWED on RoRo services.

• Electric Vehicles (EVs): NOT ALLOWED on RoRo services. This is due to safety regulations concerning high-voltage batteries on vessels that primarily carry vehicles driven on and off.

Loading Goods with Your Vehicle on RoRo

It is strictly prohibited to load any personal belongings, goods, or accessories inside your vehicle when using a RoRo shipping service. The vehicle must be empty. This rule is in place for safety, security, and to comply with international maritime regulations. Any items found inside the vehicle may be removed, confiscated, or incur additional charges.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

While RoRo shipping is a secure method, we strongly recommend comprehensive marine insurance to protect against unforeseen events during transit.

• Total Loss Cover:

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

  • Coverage: This covers the total loss of your vehicle due to major incidents such as fire damage or substantial water damage during the voyage.

• Comprehensive Cover:

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

  • Coverage: This provides the highest level of protection, covering not only total loss (fire, water damage) but also cosmetic damage (e.g., scratches, minor dents) that may occur during transit.

  • Vehicle Age Limit: This comprehensive cover is available only for vehicles not older than 10 years.

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

    • This report is provided 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.

Declaration of Value: It is essential to declare an accurate market value for your vehicle. If you choose not to take out insurance, the vehicle will be shipped at your own risk.

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

Cameroon, like most countries, has regulations on what can and cannot be imported. For RoRo vehicle shipping, the primary restriction is on loading goods inside the vehicle. However, beyond this, general import prohibitions apply:

Prohibited Items for Import into Cameroon:

• Drugs and Narcotics: Illegal substances are strictly forbidden.

• Weapons and Ammunition: Unless specific permits are obtained through official Cameroonian channels.

• Certain Hazardous Materials: Including explosives, flammable liquids (beyond the vehicle’s standard fuel tank), and toxic chemicals.

• Counterfeit Goods: Importing counterfeit products is illegal.

• Second-Hand Goods (with restrictions): While vehicles under 10 years are permitted, the import of some other types of used goods may be restricted or require specific approvals.

• Specific Agricultural Products: To protect local industries and biosecurity.

Key Restrictions for RoRo Shipping:

• No Personal Belongings: As mentioned, absolutely no items can be loaded inside the vehicle.

• Fuel Level: The fuel tank should not be more than a quarter full for safety reasons.

Cost Breakdown: What Contributes to the Price

The total cost of shipping your vehicle to Douala involves several factors:

1. Sea Freight Charges: The base cost of RoRo shipping, determined by the vehicle’s dimensions and current shipping line rates.

2. UK Port Fees: These cover terminal handling charges, documentation, security, and agency fees at the UK departure port.

3. UK Collection & Handling:

   • Cost for transporter or trade plate collection (if applicable).

   • Depot handling fees.

   • Cost for the condition report (if self-delivered).

4. Marine Insurance Premium: Calculated as 1% or 1.5% of the declared vehicle value plus shipping costs.

5. UK Export Administration: Fees for processing export documentation and declarations.

6. Bilingual Inspection Certificate (BISC) Fees: Costs associated with obtaining this mandatory certificate from the approved agency.

7. Cameroonian Import Duties and Taxes: Calculated based on the vehicle’s value, age, and type. This is paid upon arrival in Douala.

8. Port Fees in Douala: Terminal handling, customs, and other local port charges.

9. Clearing Agent Fees: Charges for customs brokerage and assistance with import procedures in Douala.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main port for car shipping to Cameroon? 

The primary port is Douala.

How long does it take to ship a car from the UK to Douala?

RoRo transit time is typically 25 to 35 days.

Can I ship my electric car to Cameroon on RoRo? 

No, electric vehicles are not permitted on RoRo services.

Can I pack personal items in my car for RoRo shipping?

No, absolutely not. The vehicle must be empty for RoRo.

What is the age limit for importing a car into Cameroon?

Vehicles must generally be 10 years old or newer. Older vehicles are typically not allowed.

Do I need a special inspection certificate?

Yes, a Bilingual Inspection Certificate of Conformity (BISC) is usually mandatory.

Shipping your vehicle to Cameroon with ShipCars.co.uk is a straightforward process when you have the right information. Our RoRo service to Douala is designed to be efficient and cost-effective. Always remember the strict age and condition requirements for vehicles, and ensure all documentation, including the BISC, is in order. For a personalised quote and to discuss your specific shipping needs, please contact our team today.

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