Car Shipping from the UK to Cameroon via Port of Douala

Ship Cars Ltd ships vehicles from the UK to Cameroon via the Port of Douala, with approximately 20-22 days transit and two sailings per month. RoRo starts from £990. Cameroon drives on the right — only left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles can be registered for road use. A mandatory CNCC pre-shipment inspection in the UK is required before departure. Vehicles must be under 8 years old. We handle all UK export documentation.

Left-Hand Drive Vehicles Only

Cameroon drives on the right side of the road. Only left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles can be imported for road registration. UK-registered vehicles are right-hand drive and cannot be registered in Cameroon. All vehicles shipped to Douala must be left-hand drive. Confirm your vehicle’s steering configuration before booking. UK car traders exporting to the Central African market should ensure they are sourcing LHD-specification vehicles before shipping to Douala.

What Are The Shipping Services Offered by Ship Cars Ltd

At Ship Cars, we offer a range of vehicle shipping options, from Roll on Roll Off (RoRo), which is highly cost effective and container shipping including Full Container Load (FCL) when shipping luxury, electric or hybrid cars.  

Vehicle Shipping Via 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.

• How RORO Shipping Works: Complete Beginner’s Guide

What Pre-Shipment Inspection Does Cameroon Require?

Cameroon mandates a mandatory pre-shipment inspection for all imported vehicles, conducted before the vehicle leaves the UK by an approved inspection agency. This is a CNCC (Centre National de Contrôle de Conformité) inspection programme managed by the Cameroonian government. Approved agencies in the UK include Cotecna, Bureau Veritas (BIVAC), and SGS.

What the inspection verifies:

• Vehicle age and date of first registration — confirming compliance with Cameroon’s 8-year age limit

• Vehicle identity — VIN/chassis number confirmed against documents

• Declared vehicle value — used by Cameroonian customs to calculate import duties and taxes

• Physical condition of the vehicle

How to Arrange the inspection:

Contact Cotecna, Bureau Veritas, or SGS directly after booking your shipment with Ship Cars Ltd. The inspection is conducted at the UK departure port or at an approved inspection facility before loading. On completion, the agency issues a Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate — also referred to as the BISC (Bureau d’Inspection, de Surveillance et de Conformité certificate) — which is a mandatory customs document at Douala Port.

Timeline: Allow 5–10 working days from booking the inspection to receiving your certificate. Do not book a sailing before confirming your inspection appointment.

Cost: The inspection fee is charged directly by the approved agency and is not included in the Ship Cars Ltd shipping quote.

Is Douala Used as a Transit Hub for Landlocked Central African Countries?

Yes. The Port of Douala is the primary maritime gateway for several landlocked and coastal nations in the CEMAC (Communauté Économique et Monétaire de l’Afrique Centrale) zone. Vehicles arriving in Douala are frequently destined for onward transit to:

• Chad — Douala is the primary import route for landlocked Chad, approximately 1,800km northeast via the N’Djamena corridor
• Central African Republic (CAR) — vehicles transit from Douala to Bangui, approximately 1,400km
• Gabon — vehicles may also transit to Libreville from Douala via road
• Republic of Congo — Brazzaville accessible via onward transport

UK car dealers and traders supplying the Central African market regularly use Douala as a hub due to its established road and rail links to the interior. If your vehicle’s final destination is Chad, CAR, or another CEMAC country, our team can advise on Douala clearance and onward transport arrangements.

Important note: Vehicles transiting to other CEMAC countries require specific transit documentation from Cameroonian customs at Douala. Your appointed clearing agent (transitaire agréé) at Douala will manage this process.

What Import Duty and Taxes Will I Pay in Cameroon?

Cameroon’s vehicle import taxes are calculated by the Direction Générale des Douanes (Cameroonian Customs Directorate) based on the vehicle’s CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight), engine capacity, and age. The total tax burden is typically substantial and should be factored into your total import budget.

The main components include:

• Customs Duty: Typically 30–35% of the CIF value for passenger vehicles (varies by tariff code and origin)

• VAT (Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée): 19.25% on the CIF value plus duty

• CFCE (Community Integration Contribution): A levy applied under CEMAC regional tariff rules

• Port handling and terminal charges: Payable at Douala Port, separate from import duties

• Pre-shipment inspection fee: Charged by the approved inspection agency (Cotecna, Bureau Veritas, SGS)

• Clearing agent fees: Your transitaire agréé at Douala charges for managing the import declaration, duty calculation, and port clearance

These figures are indicative only and subject to change. Verify current duty rates with your Douala clearing agent or the Direction Générale des Douanes before shipping. Cameroonian customs regulations can change without advance notice.

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.

Popular topic:  Temporary Vehicle Export on a Carnet

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. get a quote

   • 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):

•  Accurate UK Documents are needed when shipping vehicles.

• 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.  You may want to read about Car Shipping Documents Requirement.

UK Export Documentation (Before the Vessel Sails):

1. V5C logbook — original. Do not leave inside the vehicle

2. Passport copy — photo page of the vehicle owner

3. Proof of address — utility bill or bank statement, less than 3 months old

4. Purchase invoice or proof of ownership — confirms declared vehicle value for Cameroonian customs

5. Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate — obtained from Cotecna, Bureau Veritas, or SGS in the UK before the vehicle sails. This is mandatory and cannot be arranged after departure

6. Completed Ship Cars Ltd booking form

Ship Cars Ltd manages the UK export customs declaration on your behalf.

Bilingual Documentation Note:

Cameroon is a bilingual country (French and English). While English-language documents from the UK (V5C, purchase invoice, passport) are accepted, all customs declarations and correspondence with Cameroonian authorities and your clearing agent will be in French. Ensure your clearing agent is fluent in both languages and experienced with UK import paperwork.

Ports, Prices, Transit Times, and Frequency

Ship Cars Ltd 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 Car Delivery And Car Collection Service

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: International Customs and Excise Duties

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.

FAQs

How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Cameroon?

Shipping a car from the UK to Douala, Cameroon via RoRo starts from £990 for a standard car. These prices cover UK port to Port of Douala sea freight only. Cameroonian import duties (approximately 30–35% customs duty + 19.25% VAT), pre-shipment inspection fees, port handling charges, and clearing agent fees are all payable separately in Cameroon.

How long does car shipping from the UK to Cameroon take?

Transit from the UK to Port of Douala takes approximately 25 days, with two sailings per month. Including UK collection and port-in processing, and allowing for Cameroonian customs clearance after arrival, allow 6–8 weeks total from booking to your vehicle being available in Douala.

Can I ship a right-hand drive UK car to Cameroon?

No. Cameroon drives on the right and only left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles can be registered for road use. UK vehicles are right-hand drive and cannot be registered in Cameroon. Confirm your vehicle is LHD before booking.

What is the CNCC pre-shipment inspection for Cameroon?

Cameroon mandates a mandatory pre-shipment inspection conducted in the UK before your vehicle sails, by an approved agency (Cotecna, Bureau Veritas, or SGS). The inspection verifies the vehicle’s age, identity, condition, and declared value. It issues a Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate that is a mandatory customs document at Douala Port without which the vehicle cannot be cleared. Allow 5–10 working days for this process.

What is the maximum vehicle age for import into Cameroon?

Cameroon enforces an 8-year age limit from the date of first registration. Vehicles older than 8 years are generally prohibited from import. Verify your vehicle’s eligibility before purchasing or booking shipment.

Contact us today for further information or visit our sailing schedule and get an instant quote to schedule your car shipping with us.

Ship Cars Ltd provide efficient and reliable car shipping to worldwide destinations including:

Congo

Tanzania

Mombassa

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