Car Shipping from the UK to Egypt — Alexandria Port

Ship Cars Ltd ships vehicles from the UK to Alexandria, Egypt via RoRo, with approximately 14-18 days transit and twice-monthly sailings. RoRo starts from £1199. Egypt enforces a strict vehicle age limit — most used vehicles are ineligible for permanent import, so eligibility must be confirmed before booking. Import duties are high and vary by engine size, plus 14% VAT and a Consumption Tax. We handle all UK export documentation.

Egypt drives on the right, so left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles are standard. Right-hand drive imports are generally restricted. UK vehicles are right-hand drive — confirm eligibility before shipping, as this may further limit import options alongside the strict age rule.

What Are The Shipping Options From UK To Egypt

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.  

Egypt’s Strict Vehicle Age Limit

Egypt enforces one of the world’s strictest vehicle import age limits. For permanent import by individuals, passenger vehicles must generally be no more than [VERIFY: commonly cited as within the current or previous model year — confirm exact current rule with the Egyptian Customs Authority] old. Most used UK vehicles are ineligible for permanent import into Egypt. Returning Egyptian nationals importing under Transfer of Residence face specific age and ownership conditions. Before booking, confirm your vehicle’s eligibility with an Egyptian clearing agent — shipping an ineligible vehicle risks refusal at Alexandria and costly return freight.

What Are Destination Rules and Regulations in Egypt

Navigating Egypt’s import regulations is essential for a successful shipment.

Permanent Export / Transfer of Residence

Egypt has specific regulations for importing vehicles, especially for personal use or as part of a relocation. Age restrictions and vehicle type restrictions are common.

• Authority Website: For the most up-to-date and definitive information on customs regulations, import procedures, and requirements for personal vehicles, you should consult:

  • Egyptian Customs Authority: While an official English website can be elusive, information is often available through Egyptian embassies or trade bodies. It is highly recommended to work with a local clearing agent who can provide current guidance.

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt: For general information and diplomatic contacts.

Temporary Import

Temporary import of vehicles into Egypt is possible for tourists or specific purposes, but it is subject to strict rules and requires specific permits.

• Duration: Temporary importation permits are usually granted for a limited period (e.g., up to 3 or 6 months).

• Requirements: The vehicle must be registered outside Egypt and owned by you. You will need to provide proof of ownership, registration, and a valid reason for temporary import. A Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) will be required, often obtained upon arrival with a guarantee or bond.

• Age Restrictions: Egypt has strict age restrictions for imported vehicles. Generally, passenger vehicles should not be older than three years at the time of import. This can vary, so confirmation is essential.

Documentation Required in the UK:

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. Completed Ship Cars Ltd booking form

6. Vehicle Condition Report (free if Ship Cars Ltd collects; £35 if self-delivered)

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

Documentation Required at the Destination Port (Alexandria)

The specific documents required will depend on your import status. Generally, you will need:

1. Bill of Lading: Issued by the shipping company.

2. Customs Declaration Form: To be completed by your appointed clearing agent in Egypt.

3. Proof of Ownership: Original V5C and Bill of Sale.

4. Identification: Passport.

5. Transfer of Residence (ToR) Documentation: If applicable, for eligible individuals relocating permanently. Strict conditions apply regarding vehicle age and ownership duration.

6. Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): For temporary imports, often secured upon arrival.

7. Import Permit: May be required depending on the vehicle type and import status.

8. Certificate of Origin: May be requested.

9. Invoice: Showing the value of the vehicle.

10. Proof of Insurance: Insurance valid in Egypt.

Port of Arrival in Egypt

We can ship your vehicle directly to the main port in Egypt:

• Alexandria

RoRo and Container Shipping Rates and Schedule

When shipping to Alexandria, you have multiple options with varying costs.

RoRo Shipping Rates

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £1199 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £1345 per vehicle.

Dedicated Container Shipping Rates

• Rates for dedicated containers are available upon request and depend on the container size and specific route. Please contact us for a personalised quote.

Transit Time and Frequency

• Estimated Transit Time:   14-18 days.

• Sailing Frequency:  Sail twice a month ensuring regular shipping opportunities.

Inspections, Permits, and Fees

Inspections

• Pre-shipment Inspection: While not always mandatory for Egypt, a condition report is highly recommended for insurance purposes. This documents the vehicle’s condition before shipping.

  • Cost: Free if we collect your vehicle. £35 if you deliver the vehicle to us.

• Destination Port Inspections: Egyptian Customs will inspect the vehicle upon arrival to verify its details, condition, and compliance with import regulations, including age restrictions.

Permits

• Import Permit: Depending on your import status and vehicle type, an import permit may be required. This is often handled by your clearing agent in Egypt.

• Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): Required for temporary imports.

• Driving Permits: Ensure you have the necessary driving permits or licenses valid in Egypt.

Duty, Tax, and Costs

Importing a vehicle into Egypt involves customs duties, taxes, and other charges.

Duty and Tax

Egypt has a complex duty and tax structure for imported vehicles. Rates vary significantly based on the vehicle’s engine capacity, CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value, and type. Key components typically include:

• Customs Duty: Rates can range widely, often from 15% to 40% or more, depending on engine size and vehicle type.

• VAT (Value Added Tax): Currently 14%, applied to the CIF value plus customs duty.

• Import Service Fee (ISF): A fee charged on imports.

• Schedule Tax (Consumption Tax): This is a significant tax that varies based on engine capacity. For example, engines over 1600cc will incur much higher consumption tax rates than smaller engines.

Important Note: Due to the complexity and variability of these charges, it is essential to consult with a local clearing agent in Egypt or the Egyptian Customs Authority for precise figures applicable to your specific vehicle.

Consumption Tax (by engine capacity) — indicative:

• Under 1,600cc: lower Consumption Tax band

• 1,600cc–2,000cc: significantly higher band

• Over 2,000cc: highest band — Consumption Tax can substantially exceed the vehicle’s value

Combined with customs duty (which can reach 40%+ for larger engines) and 14% VAT, the total import cost for a large-engine vehicle can exceed the vehicle’s purchase price. Verify current Consumption Tax rates with an Egyptian clearing agent — rates are set by engine size and change periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Car Shipping To Egypt

The total cost of shipping your car to Alexandria includes several components:

• Shipping Fee: Based on the chosen method (RoRo or Dedicated Container), vehicle size, and shipping route.

• Port Fees: Charges levied by both the UK and Alexandria ports for handling and berthing.

• Documentation Fees: Costs associated with preparing and processing shipping and customs paperwork.

• Insurance: Varies based on coverage level.

• Customs Clearance: Fees for your clearing agent in Egypt.

• Collection/Delivery: If you opt for our collection service from your UK address.

• Hazard Surcharge: Applicable for electric vehicles shipped via container (£295).

Please note: Given the potential for significant duties and taxes, and the specific import regulations, obtaining a detailed, all-inclusive quote is highly recommended. Please contact us for a comprehensive estimate.

Car Collection Service in the UK

We offer flexible collection options for your vehicle within the UK:

• Transporter: Your vehicle can be collected by our professional transporters and delivered to the port.

• Trade Plate Driver: If your vehicle is fully operational and has a valid MOT, it can be driven to the port by one of our experienced drivers using trade plates.

Insurance and Risk Coverage

We offer comprehensive insurance options to protect your vehicle during transit.

• Total Loss Cover (1% of vehicle value + shipping cost): Covers total loss due to fire or water damage.

• Comprehensive Cover (1.5% of vehicle value + shipping cost): Covers cosmetic damage in addition to total loss.

  • Eligibility: The vehicle must not be older than 10 years for this cover.

  • Condition Report: A condition report is mandatory for comprehensive cover. This is provided free of charge if we collect your vehicle. If you deliver the vehicle to us, a fee of £35 will apply for the condition report.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

To ensure a safe and compliant shipment, the following items are generally not allowed to be shipped within or alongside your vehicle to Egypt:

• Personal Belongings/Goods:

  • RoRo: Strictly prohibited inside the vehicle.

  • Container Services: While personal effects can be included in dedicated containers, all items must be declared. Items that are illegal, dangerous, or have high value should not be shipped. Egypt has strict customs regulations.

• Hazardous Materials: Flammable substances, explosives, corrosives, or any other hazardous materials are strictly prohibited.

• Perishable Goods: Food, plants, and other items that could spoil.

• Firearms and Ammunition: Strictly prohibited without specific permits.

• Illegal Substances: Drugs or other illicit items.

• Age Restrictions: Vehicles older than three years are generally not permitted for import as personal vehicles. This is a critical restriction.

• Left-Hand Drive Vehicles: Egypt primarily uses right-hand drive vehicles. While left-hand drive imports might be possible under specific circumstances or for diplomatic use, it is generally restricted for personal imports.

Restrictions:

• Fuel: Vehicles must have a minimal amount of fuel (typically just enough to drive onto the ship or container).

• Batteries: For electric vehicles, specific regulations regarding battery state of charge may apply.

• Hybrid/Electric Vehicles on RoRo: Not permitted.

Important Considerations for Shipping to Egypt:

• Age and Type Restrictions: The strict age (generally 3 years) and drive-side (right-hand drive preferred) restrictions are paramount. Ensure your vehicle complies before shipping.

• High Duties and Taxes: Be prepared for significant import duties and taxes, which vary greatly with engine size.

• Clearing Agent: Engaging a reputable clearing agent in Alexandria is highly recommended to navigate customs procedures efficiently and ensure all documentation is correctly handled.

FAQs

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

RoRo shipping from the UK to Alexandria starts from £1199 for a standard small car and £1,345 for a large vehicle. These prices cover UK port to Alexandria only. Egyptian customs duty (15–40%+ by engine size), 14% VAT, Consumption Tax, and clearing agent fees are payable separately and are often substantial.

Q: What is the vehicle age limit for importing a car to Egypt?

Egypt enforces a strict age limit on used vehicle imports for individuals. Most used vehicles are ineligible for permanent import. Confirm your vehicle’s exact eligibility with the Egyptian Customs Authority or an Alexandria clearing agent before booking — shipping an ineligible vehicle risks refusal at the port.

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

Transit from the UK to Alexandria takes approximately 14-18 days, with twice-monthly sailings. Including UK collection and Egyptian customs clearance, allow 6–8 weeks total from booking to your vehicle being available.

Q: Why is it so expensive to import a car into Egypt?

Egypt applies customs duty (up to 40%+ for larger engines), 14% VAT, and a Consumption Tax that scales steeply with engine capacity. For a large-engine vehicle, combined taxes can exceed the vehicle’s value. Smaller-engine vehicles attract significantly lower charges.

Q: Can I temporarily import my car into Egypt?

Yes. Tourists and specific visa holders can temporarily import a vehicle for a limited period (typically 3–6 months) using a Temporary Importation Permit (TIP), usually secured on arrival with a bond or guarantee. The vehicle must be registered outside Egypt and owned by you, and must be re-exported before the permit expires.

Ship Your Car From UK to Egypt With Ship Cars Ltd

For a personalized quote and to discuss your specific shipping needs to Egypt with Ship Cars Ltd, please do not hesitate to Contact us. We are here to help you with a seamless car shipping experience.  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

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