Car Shipping to Congo

Affordable Car Shipping to Congo from UK | RORO & Container | Ship Cars Ltd.

Ship Cars Ltd. specialises in low-cost, reliable car shipping services from the UK to the Republic of Congo, with a primary focus on Pointe Noire, the nation’s principal port city. We understand the unique logistical challenges and requirements for shipping vehicles to Congo and offer both Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping options to suit your needs and budget. Our goal is to make international car shipping accessible and straightforward, providing a transparent and efficient service for individuals and businesses alike.

Our Services for Shipping Cars to Congo

We offer comprehensive shipping solutions tailored for the Congo market:

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

• Ideal For: Operational cars, vans, trucks, and other drivable vehicles.

• Process: Your vehicle is driven directly onto a specialised RoRo vessel at the UK port and secured in a dedicated vehicle deck.

• Benefits: Typically the most cost-effective method for drivable vehicles.

• Restrictions:

  • Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: Are not allowed on most RoRo vessels due to safety regulations.

  • Personal Belongings: Generally, personal items are not permitted inside the vehicle during RoRo shipping.

  • Vehicle Condition: The vehicle must be operational and able to be driven onto and off the vessel.

Container Shipping:

• Ideal For: Non-running vehicles, classic cars, high-value vehicles, or when shipping personal items alongside your car.

• Process: Your vehicle is loaded and secured inside a private shipping container (20ft or 40ft) at our facility or a designated port. We can also offer shared container services for smaller vehicles.

• Benefits: Provides enhanced security and protection from the elements. Allows for the transport of personal goods within the container.

• Restrictions:

  • Electric Vehicles: May be shipped via container, but often incur a hazard surcharge (e.g., £295).

  • Vehicle Condition: The vehicle does not need to be working for container or shared container shipping.

• Collection: We can collect your vehicle from anywhere in the UK using a transporter or a trade plate driver. For this service, the vehicle needs to be fully operational. If you choose to deliver the vehicle to us, it does not need to be running for container shipping.

Rules for Destination (Congo/Pointe Noire)

Importing vehicles into the Republic of Congo, particularly Pointe Noire, involves specific regulations.

1. Permanent Export/Import:

• Age Restrictions: Congo generally allows the import of used vehicles. However, there can be restrictions on very old vehicles. It is advisable to check current regulations, as policies can change. Vehicles older than a certain age (often around 5-10 years, but check specifics) may face higher duties or restrictions.

• Vehicle Standards: While Congo does not have stringent homologation standards like some European or North American countries, vehicles must be roadworthy. Inspections may occur.

• Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Vehicles: RHD vehicles are generally permitted.

• Authorities:

  • Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects (DGDDI): The General Directorate of Customs and Indirect Taxes is the primary authority for import procedures and duties.

    • Link: While a direct English link to specific import regulations for vehicles is scarce, general customs information can often be found via governmental portals. Searching for “Douanes Congo” might yield relevant French-language resources.

  • Ministère des Transports (Ministry of Transport): May have regulations related to vehicle registration and roadworthiness.

2. Transfer of Residence (ToR):

• Eligibility: This scheme is typically for individuals relocating their residence to Congo. You must have owned and used the vehicle in the UK for a minimum period (usually 6-12 months) prior to import. Proof of residency and ownership is mandatory.

• Conditions: The vehicle usually cannot be sold or transferred for a specified period after importation under ToR.

• Documentation: Requires extensive proof of ownership, usage, and residency status.

• Customs: Handled by the DGDDI.

3. Temporary Importation:

• Purpose: For tourism, specific projects, or temporary work assignments.

• Permit: A Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) is usually required. This allows the vehicle to be used in Congo for a set duration.

• Re-exportation: The vehicle must be exported from Congo before the permit expires. Failure to do so can lead to penalties, seizure, or confiscation.

• Carnet de Passages en Douanes (CPD): May be useful for tourist or temporary travel, simplifying customs procedures.

• Authorities: Managed by the DGDDI.

Inspections and Permits for Congo

• Pre-Shipment Inspection:

  • BIVAC (Bureau Veritas): Historically, vehicles destined for Congo (and other African nations) required a pre-shipment inspection certificate from an authorised agency like BIVAC (now often managed by other entities like SGS or Intertek, depending on the specific country and requirements). This inspection verifies the vehicle’s condition, value, and compliance with import regulations, particularly for customs clearance and duty assessment. It is crucial to confirm the current inspection agency and requirements with your clearing agent in Pointe Noire before shipping.

  • Cleaning: Vehicles should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, mud, or organic matter to avoid potential quarantine issues, though this is less stringent than in countries like Australia.

• Arrival Inspections:

  • Customs: The Direction Générale des Douanes et Droits Indirects (DGDDI) will inspect the vehicle upon arrival in Pointe Noire to verify documentation and assess duties.

  • Roadworthiness: While less formalised than in some Western countries, the vehicle should be in a condition to be registered and driven legally.

• Permits:

  • Temporary Import Permit (TIP): Required for temporary stays. Apply through the DGDDI or relevant transport ministry upon arrival or via an agent.

  • Registration: Once imported permanently, the vehicle must be registered with local authorities.

Required Paperwork: UK Export & Pointe Noire Import

Accurate documentation is essential for a smooth process.

UK Export Documentation:

• Vehicle Registration Document (V5C): Proof of UK ownership.

• Bill of Sale: If the vehicle was recently purchased.

• Shipper’s Instruction Form: Provided by Ship Cars Ltd.

• Passport / Photographic ID: For the exporter.

• Export Declarations: Ship Cars Ltd. will manage the necessary customs export declarations for HMRC.

• Proof of VAT Exemption: Necessary for RoRo and permanent exports.

Pointe Noire (Congo) Import Documentation:

Requirements can be complex and may change. Typical documents include:

• Bill of Lading (BOL): Issued by Ship Cars Ltd.

• Commercial Invoice: Detailing the vehicle’s value, specifications, and transaction.

• Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (e.g., BIVAC/SGS/Intertek): Crucial for customs clearance. Verify the current requirements.

• Proof of Ownership: Original V5C or equivalent title document.

• Passport / Photographic ID: For the importer.

• Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): If applicable.

• Import Declaration Forms: Filed with the DGDDI.

• Proof of Residence: For Transfer of Residence claims.

• Vehicle Condition Report: May be required, especially for insurance.

It is highly recommended to use a reputable clearing agent in Pointe Noire to navigate customs procedures effectively.

Why Ship Your Car to Congo (Pointe Noire)?

People and businesses ship cars to Congo for several reasons:

• Personal Use: Individuals relocating to Congo or returning residents need personal transportation.

• Business Operations: Companies require vehicles for logistics, staff transport, or project work in Congo.

• Resale Market: Importing vehicles for sale within the Congolese market.

• Specialised Vehicles: Transporting trucks, construction equipment, or other commercial vehicles for specific industries.

Duty and Tax in Congo (Pointe Noire)

Import duties and taxes for vehicles in Congo can be significant and are subject to change.

• Customs Duty: Typically levied on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value of the vehicle. Rates vary based on vehicle type, age, and engine capacity. Expect rates to be substantial.

• VAT (Value Added Tax): Applied to the CIF value plus duty.

• Other Taxes and Fees: Various other taxes and charges may apply, including:

  • Road Tax / Registration Fees: Payable upon registration.

  • Port Fees: Charges for handling and storage at the port.

  • Inspection Fees: For any mandatory pre-shipment or arrival inspections.

  • Advance Cargo Information (ACI) Fee: If applicable, for electronic submission of cargo details.

Cost Breakdown: The final cost is influenced by several factors:

• Vehicle Value: Affects duty and tax calculations.

• Shipping Method: RoRo is generally cheaper than container.

• Shipping Costs: Based on vehicle size and shipping line rates.

• Insurance: Cost varies based on coverage level.

• UK Handling & Documentation: Port fees, export documentation.

• Destination Port Fees: Handling, storage, and customs clearance charges in Pointe Noire.

• Clearing Agent Fees: Professional fees for customs brokerage.

• Inspection Fees: For mandatory pre-shipment or arrival checks.

• Taxes & Duties: Customs duty, VAT, and other local levies.

• Cleaning Fees: If required for quarantine or condition.

Shipping Costs and Transit Time

We strive to offer competitive pricing for car shipping to Congo.

Estimated Costs:

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £1195 (RoRo)

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £1795 (RoRo) (Please note: These are indicative costs for RoRo shipping from UK port to Pointe Noire port. Container shipping, specific vehicle types, and additional services will vary. Contact us for a precise quote.)

Insurance / Risk Coverage:

• Total Loss Cover (Fire/Water Damage): 1% of vehicle value + shipping cost.

• Comprehensive Cover: 1.5% of vehicle value + shipping cost. Covers cosmetic damage as well. Condition: Vehicle must be 10 years or younger and have a condition report.

• Condition Report: Free of charge if Ship Cars Ltd. collects your vehicle. £35 if you deliver to us.

Transit Time & Frequency:

• Transit Time: Approximately 25 days (port to port).

• Sailing Frequency: Approximately one sailing per month.

What’s Not Allowed (Prohibited Items & Restrictions)

• Prohibited Items:

  • Flammable goods, explosives, weapons, ammunition.

  • Illegal substances.

  • Items that violate import laws of Congo.

• Restrictions:

  • Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: Not allowed on RoRo. Can be shipped via container with a potential surcharge.

  • Personal Belongings: Generally not permitted in vehicles shipped via RoRo. Allowed inside containers, but check customs regulations for prohibited goods.

  • Non-Operational Vehicles: Cannot be shipped via RoRo. Must use container or shared container services.

  • Fuel: Vehicles must have minimal fuel (usually less than 1/4 tank).

Getting Your Car to Congo with Ship Cars Ltd.

We simplify the process of shipping your car to Pointe Noire:

• Expert Guidance: Navigating Congo’s import rules and documentation.

• Cost-Effective Solutions: Offering competitive rates for RoRo and container shipping.

• Reliable Transit: Regular sailings and experienced logistics management.

• Comprehensive Support: From UK collection to port of arrival.

Enhance your shipping experience:

• Explore our secure options: International Container Shipping

• Prepare your vehicle effectively: How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping and Preparing Your Car for Export

• Avoid common errors: Top 10 Mistakes People Make During International Car Shipping

• Ensure safe transit: How to Avoid Damage with International Shipping

Contact Ship Cars Ltd. today for a personalised quote and to discuss your car shipping needs to Congo. Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on your journey.

Related articles