Shipping vehicles from the United States to South Africa has grown significantly due to strong demand for American cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and heavy equipment. One of the most efficient and widely used transport methods is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping, valued for its simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Whether you’re shipping a sedan to Durban or exporting construction machinery to Port Elizabeth, RORO shipping provides a reliable solution for individuals, dealerships, and equipment buyers across South Africa.

At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and machinery logistics, offering secure, affordable, and seamless RORO shipping from major U.S. ports to South Africa. With years of industry experience, competitive pricing, and frequent sailings, we help customers ship vehicles with confidence—making us a trusted name in U.S. to South Africa shipping.

    • For Non running cars Place Online request https://alltransportdepot.com/customorders/ Email Ship@alltransportdepot.com for custom rates , or Please call 678-528-5794

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  • Please call 678-528-5794 or Email Ship@alltransportdepot.com for custom rates , 

     

    To Place Online request  https://alltransportdepot.com/customorders/  
Car Shipping Calculator

To place custom rates: Online Request, Email Ship@alltransportdepot.com, or Call 678-528-5794.

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Why Choose RORO Shipping to South Africa?

RORO shipping is one of the most practical methods for transporting vehicles and machinery to South Africa. Instead of placing vehicles inside containers, units are driven directly onto specialized RORO vessels, securely fastened, and driven off at the destination port.

Key advantages include:

  • Cost-effective: Typically cheaper than container shipping

  • Fast loading & unloading: Reduced handling minimizes delays

  • Lower risk of damage: No cranes or container lifting involved

  • Ideal for all vehicle types: Sedans, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles

  • Perfect for heavy machinery: Excavators, bulldozers, tractors, loaders

  • Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted at extra cost

Popular RORO Ports in the United States

RORO shipping to South Africa departs from several major U.S. ports. The ideal port depends on vehicle location, sailing schedules, and pricing.

Major U.S. RORO Export Ports

  • Newark, New Jersey (EWR) – Popular for Africa-bound cargo

  • Baltimore, Maryland (BAL) – Strong RORO infrastructure

  • Savannah, Georgia (SAV)

  • Jacksonville, Florida (JAXPORT)

  • Galveston, Texas (GLS)

  • Freeport, Texas

  • Los Angeles / Long Beach – Best for West Coast shipments

How to Choose the Best Port

  • Closest port reduces inland transport costs

  • East Coast ports usually offer faster transit times

  • Compare sailing frequency and vessel availability

  • Ask All Transport Depot for discounted port rates

South African Ports That Accept RORO Cargo

South Africa has modern ports equipped to handle large-scale RORO shipments efficiently.

1. Durban Port

  • Largest and busiest port in South Africa

  • Primary destination for vehicle imports

  • Handles cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, and heavy machinery

  • Excellent customs and terminal infrastructure

2. Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)

  • Ideal for vehicles and project cargo

  • Less congestion compared to Durban

  • Popular for commercial and industrial equipment

  • Convenient for Eastern and Southern Cape regions

All vehicles are subject to South African customs regulations, inspections, and import compliance requirements.

Types of Vehicles and Machinery Shipped via RORO

RORO shipping supports a wide variety of vehicles and equipment, making it suitable for both personal and commercial use.

Passenger Vehicles

  • Sedans

  • Coupes

  • SUVs

  • Crossovers

  • Minivans

Commercial Vehicles

  • Pickup trucks

  • Delivery vans

  • Buses

  • Box trucks

  • Flatbed trucks

Heavy Machinery

  • Excavators

  • Bulldozers

  • Wheel loaders

  • Forklifts

  • Tractor trailers

  • Agricultural equipment

Other Equipment

  • Motorcycles

  • Boats & jet skis

  • RVs and motorhomes

Non-Running Units

  • Accepted with forklift assistance

  • Additional charges apply

  • Early port delivery required

Cost of RORO Shipping to South Africa (2025 Guide)

RORO shipping rates depend on multiple variables. While pricing fluctuates with fuel and demand, the following factors determine the final cost.

Factors That Determine RORO Rates

  • Vehicle size and type

  • Port of departure in the U.S.

  • Running vs. non-running condition

  • Weight and dimensions (CBM for machinery)

  • Seasonal demand

  • Documentation and terminal fees

Typical Price Ranges (Estimated)

(Exact pricing depends on port, season, and vessel availability—contact All Transport Depot for current rates.)

  • Sedan: Lowest RORO pricing category

  • SUV: Slightly higher due to height

  • Pickup Truck: Based on size and weight

  • Heavy Machinery: Priced by cubic meters (CBM)

Documents Required for RORO Shipping to South Africa

Accurate documentation ensures smooth export from the U.S. and faster clearance upon arrival.

Required documents include:

  • Original Vehicle Title

  • Bill of Sale

  • Copy of Passport or U.S. ID

  • Export Power of Attorney (POA) – provided by All Transport Depot

  • Consignee details in South Africa

  • Import permit (if required by South African authorities)

Auction or salvage vehicles may require additional release documents.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Ship a Car from USA to South Africa via RORO

All Transport Depot manages the entire shipping process for a stress-free experience.

  1. Request a Quote
    Provide vehicle details, pickup ZIP code, and destination port.

  2. Vehicle Pickup or Port Drop-Off
    Door-to-port or self-delivery options available.

  3. Vehicle Inspection at U.S. Port
    Required before loading.

  4. U.S. Export Customs Filing
    Handled by All Transport Depot.

  5. RORO Vessel Loading
    Vehicle is driven onboard and secured.

  6. Ocean Transit to South Africa

  7. Arrival & South African Customs Clearance
    Your clearing agent handles duties, VAT, and inspections.

  8. Vehicle Release to Consignee

Transit Time from USA to South Africa

Transit times depend on departure port, route, and vessel schedules.

Estimated transit times:

  • East Coast to Durban: ~25–35 days

  • Gulf Coast to Durban: ~30–40 days

  • West Coast to Durban: ~40–50 days

  • Port Elizabeth: May add 5–7 days depending on routing

RORO remains one of the fastest vehicle shipping methods to Southern Africa.

How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to South Africa

Cost-saving strategies can significantly reduce total shipping expenses.

  • Ship from the nearest U.S. port

  • Avoid peak shipping seasons

  • Keep vehicles running

  • Submit documents early

  • Book space in advance

  • Work with a licensed shipper like All Transport Depot

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping to South Africa

  • Missing or incorrect documentation

  • Leaving personal items inside vehicles

  • Incorrect consignee information

  • Using unlicensed agents

  • Delayed customs paperwork

  • Missing port storage deadlines

Avoiding these issues saves time, money, and unnecessary stress.

Why Ship With All Transport Depot?

All Transport Depot is a reliable partner for shipping vehicles and machinery from the USA to South Africa. Our experience with African ports, transparent pricing, and professional handling ensure smooth shipments every time.

  • Licensed & bonded in the U.S.

  • Africa shipping specialists

  • Regular RORO sailings to Durban & Port Elizabeth

  • Competitive pricing

  • Door-to-port and port-to-port service

  • Dedicated customer support

  • Fast export documentation

Our mission is to make international vehicle shipping simple, secure, and affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I ship a financed car to South Africa?
Only if the lienholder provides written export approval.

• Does the vehicle need to be running?
Running vehicles cost less, but non-running units are accepted.

• Can I load personal items inside the vehicle?
No. RORO requires completely empty interiors.

• How long does customs clearance take in South Africa?
Typically 5–10 business days, depending on inspections.

• What is the cheapest way to ship a car to South Africa?
RORO shipping is the most cost-effective option.

✈️ Get a Free Quote Today

Ready to ship your vehicle by air? Here’s what we’ll need to get started:

📧 Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com

📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Phone: +1 (678) 528-5794

At All TransportDepot Inc., we ensure premium service for safe, secure, and reliable car air shipping worldwide.

👉 Don’t wait—Get Your Free Quote Now

 

Maria is the operations manager at SoCal Auto Movers, where she oversees the daily operations of their car shipping services. Her efficiency and problem-solving skills ensure that each shipment, whether local or long-distance, goes off without a hitch.