Car Shipping from the UK to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Ship Cars Ltd ships vehicles from the UK to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania via RoRo and container services to the Port of Dar es Salaam (TPA — Tanzania Ports Authority). RoRo starts from £1,307 for a standard car, with 21-41 days transit and approximately fortnightly sailings. A mandatory Clean Report of Findings (CRF) pre-shipment inspection is required in the UK before departure. Tanzania restricts imports to vehicles under 8 years old and requires right-hand drive vehicles only. We handle all UK export documentation.

 RHD Vehicles Compatible: Tanzania drives on the left — UK right-hand drive vehicles are fully compatible and road-legal in Tanzania without any conversion.

What Are The Car Shipping Services We Offer

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 that includes Full Container Load (FCL) when shipping luxury, electric or hybrid cars.  

What Are The Destination Rules and Regulations in Tanzania

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

Permanent Export / Transfer of Residence

If you are permanently exporting your car or moving to Tanzania as part of a transfer of residence, specific regulations apply. Tanzania has rules regarding the import of used vehicles, particularly concerning age restrictions.

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

  • Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA): TRA

  • You may also find relevant information from The High Commission for the Republic of Tanzania in London.

Temporary Import

• Duration: Temporary importation permits are usually granted for a limited period (e.g., 90 days, extendable under certain conditions).

• Requirements: The vehicle must be registered outside Tanzania and owned by you. You will need to provide proof of ownership, registration, and a valid reason for temporary import (e.g., tourism, project work). A Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) will be required, obtainable upon arrival or through authorized agents.

8-Year Vehicle Age Limit: Tanzania prohibits the import of used vehicles manufactured more than 8 years before the date of import. For 2026, this means vehicles manufactured before 2018 are ineligible. Verify your vehicle’s eligibility before purchasing or booking shipment. Source: Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Required Documentation

 Accurate UK Documents are needed when shipping vehicles.

Documentation Required in the UK

1. Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C): Proof of your vehicle’s registration in the UK.

2. Proof of Ownership: Bill of Sale or similar document if you have recently purchased the vehicle.

3. Identification: Passport or driving license.

4. Shipping Booking Confirmation: Details of your chosen shipping service.

5. Export Declaration: Required for all goods leaving the UK.

Documentation Required at the Destination Port (Dar es Salaam)

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 Tanzania.

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

4. Identification: Passport.

5. Transfer of Residence (ToR) Documentation (if applicable): If you are eligible for ToR relief (e.g., as a returning resident or diplomat), specific documentation will be required.

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

7. Certificate of Inspection: Tanzania requires vehicles to be inspected before shipment by an authorized inspection agency (e.g., Auto Terminal) to ensure compliance with age and condition regulations. This must be obtained in the UK before shipping.

8. Proof of Insurance: Insurance valid in Tanzania.

Port of Arrival in Tanzania

We can ship your vehicle to the main port in Tanzania:

• Dar es Salaam

RoRo and Container Shipping Rates and Schedule

When shipping to Dar es Salaam, you have multiple options with varying costs.

RoRo Shipping Rates

• Small Car (e.g., Golf): £1307 per vehicle.

• Large Car (e.g., Range Rover): £1405 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:   21-41 days,  

• Frequency: Vessels typically depart every two weeks from major UK ports to Dar es Salaam, ensuring regular shipping opportunities.

Inspections, Permits, and Fees

Inspections

• Pre-shipment Inspection (Mandatory for Tanzania): The pre-shipment inspection must be conducted by a TRA-approved inspection agency. Currently approved agencies may include SGS, Cotecna, or Bureau Veritas — verify the current approved agency with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) at tra.go.tz or with your Dar es Salaam clearing agent before booking the inspection.

• Pre-shipment Inspection (for Insurance): 

• Destination Port Inspections: Tanzanian Customs may conduct further inspections to verify the vehicle’s details and compliance with regulations.

Permits

• Clean Report of Findings (CRF): As mentioned, this is a mandatory pre-shipment inspection certificate.

• Temporary Importation Permit (TIP): Required for temporary imports, usually obtained upon arrival.

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

Duty, Tax, and Costs

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

Duty and Tax

The duty and tax structure in Tanzania can be complex and depends on the vehicle’s age, engine capacity, and value. Key components include:

• Import Duty: Rates vary but are typically in the range of 10% to 25% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value.

• VAT (Value Added Tax): Currently 18%, applied to the CIF value plus import duty.

• Excise Duty: Varies significantly based on engine capacity and vehicle type. For passenger vehicles, it can range from 5% to 20%.

• Infrastructure Levy: A levy may also apply.

Important Note: It is crucial to consult with a local clearing agent in Tanzania or the TRA for the most accurate and up-to-date duty and tax rates applicable to your specific vehicle.

Indicative Duty Calculation Example:
Vehicle CIF value: £8,000 (approximately TZS 20,000,000)

• Import duty (25% — higher rate example): £2,000

• Excise duty (10% on CIF + duty): £1,000

• VAT (18% on CIF + duty + excise): £1,980

• Estimated total duty: approximately £4,980

This is illustrative only. Tanzania’s duty is assessed in Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) at the prevailing exchange rate on the date of import. Use a Dar es Salaam clearing agent for a precise calculation.

Cost Breakdown

The total cost of shipping your car to Dar es Salaam 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 Dar es Salaam ports for handling and berthing.

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

• Pre-shipment Inspection Fee (CRF): The cost for obtaining the mandatory Clean Report of Findings.

• Insurance: Varies based on coverage level.

• Cleaning: Vehicles may need to be cleaned to meet quarantine standards.

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

• 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: Due to the mandatory pre-shipment inspection and other specific requirements, obtaining a comprehensive quote is essential. Please contact us for a detailed and consolidated estimate.

Is Dar es Salaam Used as a Transit Hub for East and Central Africa?

Yes. The Port of Dar es Salaam is the primary maritime gateway for several landlocked East and Central African countries via the Central Corridor (road and rail network):

• Uganda — vehicles transit through Tanzania to Kampala via road

• Rwanda — transit through Tanzania to Kigali

• Burundi — transit through Tanzania to Bujumbura

• Eastern DRC — some vehicles transit for eastern Congo provinces

• Zambia — alternative route to TAZARA (Tanzania-Zambia Railway) corridor

• Malawi — southern route via Tanzania

UK car dealers and traders supplying the East African market frequently use Dar es Salaam as a hub. If your vehicle’s final destination is Uganda, Rwanda, or another landlocked East African country, Ship Cars Ltd can advise on Dar es Salaam clearance and onward transit arrangements.

Note: All vehicles transiting through Tanzania to other countries require specific Transit Goods documentation from Tanzania Customs (TRA) in addition to the standard CRF inspection certificate.

What Are The 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 Dar es Salaam:

• 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. Tanzania has strict regulations on imported goods.

• 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.

• Left-Hand Drive Vehicles: Generally, only right-hand drive vehicles are permitted for import into Tanzania.

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 Dar es Salaam:

• Mandatory Inspection: The pre-shipment inspection and Clean Report of Findings (CRF) are critical. Ensure you arrange this correctly in the UK.

• Age and Drive Side Restrictions: Adhering to the 8-year age limit and ensuring your vehicle is right-hand drive are crucial for avoiding import refusal.

• Clearing Agent: Engaging a reputable clearing agent in Dar es Salaam is highly recommended to navigate customs procedures efficiently.

FAQs

Q: How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Dar es Salaam?

RoRo shipping from the UK to Dar es Salaam starts from £1,307 for a standard small car (e.g. VW Golf) and approximately £1,405 for a large vehicle (e.g. Range Rover). These prices cover UK port to Dar es Salaam port sea freight only. Tanzanian customs duty, VAT, excise duty, CRF inspection fee, port handling charges, and clearing agent fees are all payable separately in Tanzania.

Q: What is the mandatory CRF pre-shipment inspection for Tanzania?

Tanzania requires a Clean Report of Findings (CRF) pre-shipment inspection on all imported used vehicles. This must be carried out by a TRA-approved inspection agency in the UK before the vehicle sails. The inspection verifies the vehicle’s age, roadworthiness, condition, and declared value. Without a valid CRF, the vehicle will be rejected at Dar es Salaam Port. Allow 5–10 working days for the inspection and always verify the current approved inspection agency with TRA before booking.

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

Tanzania prohibits the import of vehicles more than 8 years old from the date of manufacture. For 2026, vehicles manufactured before 2018 are ineligible for import. This rule is strictly enforced. Do not purchase a vehicle for Tanzania import without first confirming it meets the age requirement. Source: Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Q: How long does car shipping from the UK to Dar es Salaam take?

Transit from the UK to Dar es Salaam takes approximately 28 days, with fortnightly sailings from UK ports. Including UK collection, CRF inspection, and Tanzanian customs clearance after arrival, allow 8–10 weeks total from booking to your vehicle being available in Dar es Salaam.

Q: Can I ship a left-hand drive vehicle to Tanzania?

No. Tanzania drives on the left and only right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles can be registered for road use. UK vehicles are right-hand drive and are fully compatible with Tanzanian roads without any conversion.

Ship Your Car To Dar Es Salaam With Ship Cars Ltd

For a personalized quote and to discuss your specific shipping needs to Dar es Salaam, please do not hesitate to contact us today for further information or visit our sailing schedule and get an instant quote to schedule your car shipping with us.  We are here to help you with a seamless car shipping experience.

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

Mombasa

Douala

Durban

Related articles