Importing a vehicle from China is straightforward when you plan the full landed cost up front. Freight, duties, inspection and local registration all sit outside the vehicle invoice — and each one varies by destination market.
Start with the destination, not the car
Port capacity, duty schedules and homologation rules differ between Lagos, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam and other common West and East African gateways. Confirm which ports accept RoRo or container shipments for your vehicle class before you lock a purchase.
- Confirm destination port and preferred shipment method (RoRo vs container).
- Ask for a written estimate covering CIF, duties and local clearance fees.
- Share intended use — personal, fleet or resale — so paperwork matches local rules.
- Budget 4–8 weeks from factory or yard handover to arrival, depending on routing.
Documents you will need
Export paperwork typically includes the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and a clean title or deregistration certificate. Your export partner should assemble these before the vessel sails so clearance is not delayed on arrival.
If you are unsure where to begin, send us your destination port and preferred body style. Our team will map a realistic timeline and budget within one business day.
