Car Shipping To South Africa

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Shipping Your Car from the UK to South Africa | Weekly RoRo & Container Shipping Services.

South Africa, a country renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, is a sought-after destination for individuals and families relocating from the UK. Whether you’re moving for business, seeking adventure, or returning home, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and efficiently is paramount. Ship Cars Ltd specialises in facilitating seamless vehicle shipping to South Africa’s primary ports: Durban and Cape Town. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information for shipping your car, motorcycle, or van, covering service specifics, costs, regulations, documentation, and more.

Your Vehicle Shipping Options to South Africa: Durban & Cape Town

We offer a range of robust shipping methods designed to suit your vehicle type and budget when shipping to South Africa. For the key ports of Durban and Cape Town, we primarily utilize:

•  At Ship Cars, we offer a range of vehicle shipping options, from Roll on Roll Off (RoRo) which is highly cost effective to Less than Container load (LCL), perfect for when you are looking to load your car when shipping and Full Container Load (FCL) when shipping luxury, electric or hybrid cars.  

  • For a small car like a VW Golf, expect costs around £1169.

  • For a larger vehicle such as a Range Rover, costs are approximately £1345.

  • Please note these are indicative prices and can vary based on vehicle size, current market rates, and specific vessel tariffs.

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• Transit Time: 28 to 42 days. 

• Frequency: RoRo services to Durban are generally scheduled on a monthly basis. Exact departure dates will be confirmed upon booking.

  Price:

  • For a small car, expect costs around £1100.

  • For a larger vehicle, costs are approximately £1300.

  • These prices are indicative and depend on vehicle size and current demand.

• • Transit Time: Due to the consolidation process, transit times are generally between 35 to 56 days.

  • Frequency: Shared containers usually depart on a monthly or bi-monthly schedule, depending on the volume of shipments being consolidated.

Destination Specific Rules, Inspections, and Permits for South Africa

South Africa enforces specific import regulations managed by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Importing a second-hand or used vehicle | South African Government Customs and the Department of Transport. Adherence to these is essential for a smooth customs clearance process.

Rules for (RoRo):

• Authority: South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs. For detailed information, please search for “SARS Customs Vehicle Importation” or visit the official SARS website .

• Vehicle Age Limit: Generally, vehicles older than 10 years may face import restrictions or higher duties. However, specific concessions may apply for returning South African residents under strict conditions.

• Roadworthiness: All imported vehicles must meet South African roadworthiness standards to be registered locally. A Roadworthiness Certificate must be obtained after customs clearance.

• Inspection: Upon arrival, vehicles are subject to customs inspection. The mandatory roadworthiness inspection is conducted by an approved facility in South Africa post-customs clearance.

• Permits: Standard vehicle imports by individuals typically do not require pre-approval permits. However, if you are a returning resident, you may need documentation to prove ownership duration and eligibility for concessions. It is always best to verify with SARS or your appointed clearing agent.

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Rules for (Container):

• Authority: South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs. Refer to “SARS Customs Vehicle Importation” for official guidelines.

• Vehicle Age Limit: Similar to Durban, vehicles exceeding 10 years in age may encounter stricter import rules or increased duties.

• Roadworthiness: A Roadworthiness Certificate is a mandatory requirement for registering your vehicle in Cape Town. This inspection is performed locally after the vehicle has cleared customs.

• Inspection: SARS Customs will inspect the vehicle upon arrival. Biosecurity checks may also be conducted.

• Permits: For standard imports, pre-approval permits are generally not required. However, for specific circumstances, consult with SARS or a South African customs clearing agent.

Paperwork Required: UK & South African Port Specifics

Accurate and complete documentation is crucial for both UK export and South African import procedures.

In the UK (Origin – for both Durban & Cape Town):

1. Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate (If Applicable): Advised by us if required by specific destination regulations, though less common for South Africa compared to some other African nations.

2. UK Export Declaration: We will manage and submit this on your behalf.

At Destination Port:

1. Bill of Lading: The original shipping document.

2. SARS Customs Declaration Forms: Handled by your designated South African customs clearing agent.

3. Proof of Ownership: Required for customs processing and vehicle registration.

4. Importer’s Passport/ID and Residency Proof: Necessary for the import process.

5. Inventory List: Must accurately match the declaration made during UK export if personal effects were included.

6. Roadworthiness Certificate: Required after customs clearance to finalise local registration.

Duty and Tax in South Africa

Importing a vehicle into South Africa involves significant duty and tax liabilities, managed by SARS Customs. It is vital to budget for these costs.

• Valuation Basis: Charges are typically calculated on the CIF value (Cost of the vehicle + Insurance + Freight charges), or the vehicle’s assessed market value, whichever is greater.

• Customs Duty: This rate varies considerably based on the vehicle’s type and origin. For used vehicles imported by individuals, it can range from 20% upwards.

• Import VAT (Value Added Tax): The current rate is 15%, applied to the CIF value plus any applicable Customs Duty.

• Ad Valorem Excise Duty: A significant additional tax, often ranging from 20% to over 30%, applied to the CIF value plus Customs Duty. This duty is particularly relevant for vehicles that do not meet specific import criteria or are considered luxury goods.

• Other Levies: A small Land Transport Fee may also be applicable.

• Returning Residents Concession: South African residents returning permanently after an absence of at least 12 months may qualify for concessions on duties and taxes. Strict conditions apply, including the vehicle being owned and used overseas for at least six months prior to import. Comprehensive documentation is mandatory.

Expert Recommendation: Given the complexity and potential for high costs, we strongly advise engaging a South African customs clearing agent. They can provide precise calculations for your specific vehicle and situation.

UK Collection Services

•       Marine Insurance is a strategic necessity for vehicles during transit. Covering your vehicles against Total Loss due to fire and water damage and cosmetic damages.  

• Terminal Handling Fees (South Africa): Charges at Durban or Cape Town ports for unloading the vehicle from the ship or container.

• Customs Clearing Agent Fees: Fees paid to your appointed agent for managing import documentation and customs clearance in South Africa.

• Import Duties and Taxes: The significant charges levied by SARS Customs, including VAT, Customs Duty, and Ad Valorem Excise Duty.

• Roadworthiness Certificate Fee: The cost of obtaining the mandatory certificate for local vehicle registration.

• Other Government Levies: Such as the Land Transport Fee.

• Local Delivery/Collection: If you arrange for your vehicle to be transported from the port to your final destination in South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship my electric or hybrid car to South Africa?

  Accurate UK Documents are needed when shipping vehicles. 

What are the main import costs in South Africa?

Expect significant costs including 15% VAT, potential Customs Duty, and a substantial Ad Valorem Excise Duty. These are calculated by SARS Customs based on the vehicle’s value and type. A Roadworthiness Certificate is also mandatory for registration.

Do I need a pre-shipment inspection for South Africa? 

While not always strictly mandatory for Durban or Cape Town imports by individuals, it is highly recommended to confirm with your chosen South African clearing agent. A Roadworthiness Certificate is essential upon arrival for registration.

Shipping your vehicle to South Africa, whether via RoRo to Durban or container to Cape Town, requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations. Ship Cars Ltd is dedicated to providing a transparent, secure, and efficient service. For precise quotes, detailed transit times in days, and to discuss the specific requirements for your vehicle and destination, please contact our expert team today.

We also provide an efficient, seamless and smooth car shipping to Durban and Cape Town. Get a quote now!

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