Car Shipping from the UK to the Republic of Congo — Pointe Noire Port

Ship Cars Ltd ships vehicles from the UK to the Republic of Congo via Pointe Noire Port, with approximately 21 days transit and one sailing per month. RoRo starts from £1,203 for a standard car. A mandatory BIVAC pre-shipment inspection is required in the UK before departure. The Republic of Congo drives on the right — left-hand drive vehicles are recommended for road registration. We handle all UK export documentation.

Is Only LHD Vehicles Recommended In Congo?

The Republic of Congo drives on the right. While RHD vehicles can technically be imported, left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles are strongly preferred for registration and practical road use. UK RHD vehicles face difficulties being registered for road use in Congo. Confirm your vehicle’s eligibility with your Pointe Noire clearing agent before booking.

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.

What Are 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 Shipping  must be operational and able to be driven onto and off the vessel.

  • Read More About RORO Car Shipping Services

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.

  • Read more about container shipping services.

Car 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. Our flexible and secured collection services include Trade Plate-Insured driven service as well as transporter or recovery options. 

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. The Republic of Congo restricts the import of used vehicles. Age restrictions and enhanced duties apply to vehicles over a certain age — the specific threshold should be verified with your Pointe Noire clearing agent and the DGDDI before shipping, as policies are subject to change.

• 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:

1. V5C logbook (original — do not leave inside vehicle)

2. Passport copy — photo page of vehicle owner

3. Proof of address — utility bill or bank statement under 3 months old

4. Purchase invoice or proof of ownership

5. BIVAC/SGS/Intertek Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate — obtained in UK before vessel sails

6. Completed Ship Cars Ltd booking form

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.

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.

Pre-Shipment Inspection (BIVAC/SGS)

The Republic of Congo requires a mandatory pre-shipment inspection by an authorised agency — currently SGS Congo or Bureau Veritas (BIVAC) — before the vehicle leaves the UK. This inspection verifies the vehicle’s age, condition, value, and roadworthiness, and results in a Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate that is a mandatory customs document at Pointe Noire Port. Book the inspection with SGS or Bureau Veritas in the UK after confirming your sailing date. Allow 5–10 working days. The inspection fee is charged directly by the agency and is not included in the Ship Cars Ltd shipping price. Always verify the current approved inspection agency with your Pointe Noire clearing agent before booking, as approved agencies can change.

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).

Indicative Duty and Tax Structure (Republic of Congo):

• Customs Duty: Typically 30–40% of the CIF value for passenger vehicles (varies by tariff classification and engine capacity — verify with DGDDI)

• VAT (Taxe sur la Valeur Ajoutée): 18.9% applied on CIF value plus customs duty

• Community Integration Tax (TCI): Applied under CEMAC regional tariff rules

• Statistical Tax: Additional levy on imports

All figures are indicative and subject to change. Verify current duty rates with your Pointe Noire clearing agent before importing.

Shipping to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC/Congo-Kinshasa)?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) — also known as Congo-Kinshasa — is a separate country from the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) covered on this page. The DRC is served by different ports: Matadi and Boma are the primary vehicle import ports. The customs authority is the DGDA (Direction Générale des Douanes et Accises). Duty rates, port procedures, and shipping schedules differ significantly from the Republic of Congo. Contact Ship Cars Ltd directly for a DRC shipping quote and current schedule.

Ship 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

FAQs

Q: How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Congo?

RoRo shipping from the UK to Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo starts from £1,203 for a standard small car (e.g. VW Golf) and approximately £2,208 for a large vehicle (e.g. Range Rover). These prices cover UK port to Pointe Noire port sea freight only. Congolese customs duty, VAT, BIVAC inspection fees, port handling charges, and clearing agent fees are all payable separately in Congo.

Q: How long does car shipping from the UK to Congo take?

Transit from the UK to Pointe Noire takes approximately 21 days, with one sailing per month. Including UK collection, pre-shipment inspection, and customs clearance after arrival in Pointe Noire, allow 8–10 weeks total from booking to your vehicle being available.

Q: What pre-shipment inspection does Congo require?

The Republic of Congo requires a mandatory pre-shipment inspection by an authorised agency (SGS or Bureau Veritas/BIVAC) before the vehicle leaves the UK. This inspection produces a Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate that is a mandatory customs document at Pointe Noire. Allow 5–10 working days to arrange. Verify the current approved inspection agency with your Pointe Noire clearing agent before booking.

Q: Can I ship a right-hand drive UK car to the Republic of Congo?

UK RHD vehicles can be imported into the Republic of Congo, but the country drives on the right — LHD vehicles are strongly preferred for registration and practical road use. Confirm your vehicle’s eligibility with your Pointe Noire clearing agent before booking.

Q: Is this page for Republic of Congo or DRC?

This page covers the Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) with shipping to Pointe Noire Port. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC/Congo-Kinshasa) is a separate country served by different ports (Matadi, Boma). Contact Ship Cars Ltd directly for DRC shipping information.

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

We also provide an efficient, seamless and smooth car shipping to:

Cameroon

Douala

Guinea

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