Car Shipping Guide to South Africa from the UK

Shipping your car from the UK to South Africa can be simple, safe, and affordable when handled by professionals. At Ascope Shipping, we specialize in international car shipping with over 15 years of experience, offering a smooth process from collection to delivery.

Whether you’re relocating, exporting, or selling your vehicle overseas, this Car Shipping Guide to South Africa explains everything you need to know, from costs, methods, and documents to customs clearance, import duties, and timelines.

Car Shipping Guide to South Africa

Why Choose Ascope Shipping for Car Shipping UK to South Africa?

With decades of industry knowledge, Ascope Shipping has earned a reputation for reliability and customer trust. We provide a fully managed car shipping service covering everything from documentation to customs clearance and safe arrival at your chosen South African port.

  • Over 15 years of hands-on experience in vehicle shipping
  • Weekly sailings from major UK ports
  • Options for RORO car shipping and container car shipping
  • Affordable rates with no hidden charges
  • Door-to-Port and Port-to-Port service
  • Expert help with import duty, customs clearance, and regulations

We understand South Africa’s customs rules and vehicle import regulations, ensuring every shipment is compliant and hassle-free.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a Car from the UK to South Africa

1. Request a Car Shipping Quote

Start by getting a car shipping quote to South Africa using our online booking form. Simply provide the vehicle details, destination, and preferred method of shipment. We’ll send you a transparent cost breakdown — no surprise fees.

2. Choose Your Shipping Method

We offer two reliable methods for car transport UK to South Africa:

  • RORO Car Shipping (Roll-On/Roll-Off): The most cost-effective way to ship vehicles. Your car is driven onto the ship and securely fastened for the journey.
  • Container Car Shipping: Perfect for high-value or classic cars. Your vehicle is loaded into a 20 ft or 40 ft container for maximum protection.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle

Before exporting, make sure your car is clean, emptied of personal belongings, and meets UK to South Africa car shipping regulations and duties.

Our team provides a car shipping checklist, covering:

  • Required documents
  • Vehicle inspection
  • Cleaning and preparation
  • Tracking and insurance options

4. Complete Export Documentation

To export a car from the UK, you’ll need to provide:

  • V5C Logbook (proof of ownership)
  • Photo ID and Proof of Address
  • Bill of Sale
  • Letter of Authority (if applicable)
  • Import Permit (IE 462)
  • Vehicle clearance certificate

We help you with all the necessary paperwork for both UK and South African customs.

5. Customs Clearance and Import Duties

When your vehicle arrives at the Port of Durban, Cape Town, or another entry point, our agents will handle all customs clearance procedures.

You’ll be guided through:

  • Import Duty and Tax Requirements
  • International Customs and Excise Duties
  • Vehicle clearance and inspection
  • Registration and local fees

Car Shipping from the UK to South Africa Cost

The cost to ship a car from the UK to South Africa varies depending on the vehicle size, shipping method, and port of arrival.

Approximate average prices:

  • RORO shipping: from £695
  • 20 ft container: from £1,395
  • Shared container: economical option for multiple cars

For larger vehicles, such as 4×4s or vans, prices may differ. We always recommend requesting a custom quote to get the cheapest car shipping from the UK to South Africa based on your needs.

Required Documents for Car Shipping to South Africa

To ensure smooth customs processing, you’ll need:

  • Valid passport or ID
  • Vehicle registration documents (V5C)
  • Bill of sale or purchase invoice
  • Import permit (IE 462)
  • Letter of Authority from the National Regulator
  • Proof of residence in South Africa
  • Insurance certificate

Our experienced team assists you every step of the way to make sure your car shipping to South Africa UK requirements are met.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car to South Africa?

The average shipping time from the UK to South Africa is 3 to 5 weeks, depending on the port and vessel schedule.
 RORO ships tend to sail more frequently, while container shipping offers extra security for valuable vehicles.

Once your car departs the UK, you can track its journey online for complete peace of mind.

Car Import Regulations and Customs in South Africa

Before shipping, it’s vital to understand South African import laws.
 Only certain vehicles are eligible for import, and you must obtain the correct documentation before shipment.

Important notes:

  • You must be the registered owner before export.
  • Left-hand-drive vehicles are not permitted for import unless exempt.
  • Obtain a Letter of Authority and Import Permit before shipping.
  • Pay duty and VAT upon arrival, unless exemptions apply.
  • Register your vehicle with South African authorities before use.

Essential Car Shipping Checklist

Before shipping your car to South Africa, make sure you:

  • Obtain your car shipping quote and booking confirmation
  • Prepare and clean your vehicle
  • Remove personal items unless using container service
  • Collect all required export and import documents
  • Verify insurance coverage for international shipping
  • Confirm delivery details and contact our logistics team

Why South Africans Trust Ascope Shipping

Our customers choose Ascope Shipping for professional service, transparency, and care. We handle thousands of international car shipments every year, with a dedicated team providing updates at every stage. Global network coverage for all major South African ports

How do I ship a car from the UK to South Africa?

Contact Ascope Shipping for a quote, choose RORO or container service, prepare your vehicle, and submit documents. We manage everything else.

Book Your Car Shipping to South Africa

Ascope Shipping makes international car transport from the UK to South Africa simple, safe, and affordable. Contact our friendly team today for a free online quote, or call us on +44 7717 769925 to discuss your shipping requirements. You’ll get professional support, affordable pricing, and total peace of mind from start to finish.