RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping to Durban and Port Elizabeth provides a simple and efficient solution for transporting vehicles from the USA to South Africa. This service streamlines the international shipping process by allowing wheeled vehicles to be driven directly onto specialized vessels, making it a preferred option for reliable overseas transport.
When you decide to ship your vehicle to Durban or Port Elizabeth, All Transport Depot stands as your experienced partner. We use our extensive background in global shipping to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and as scheduled. Opting for All Transport Depot means entrusting your vehicle to a team that understands the precise requirements and sometimes complex procedures involved in shipping to this key African nation.
What is RORO Shipping?
RORO shipping stands for “Roll-On/Roll-Off.” This term describes the process by which we transport vehicles equipped with wheels, including various cars, trucks, and heavy machinery. How does it work? You drive the vehicle directly onto a purpose-built ship at the origin port. Upon arrival at the destination port, such as Durban, you simply drive it off. This direct operational approach makes RORO highly favored for international vehicle transportation.
Why RORO Works Well for South Africa-Bound Vehicles
RORO shipping provides clear advantages for moving vehicles to South Africa. It’s a straightforward process that bypasses the need for large cranes or intricate container packing. This method saves both time and reduces the likelihood of damage. Professional crews drive vehicles directly onto the ship and secure them firmly for the voyage. This direct handling often means your vehicle reaches its destination more swiftly than with alternative shipping options that involve additional steps.
- Less handling, which means less chance of damage.
- Often quicker delivery times.
- Good value for new cars and trucks.
How We Handle Your RORO Shipping to Durban Port Elizabeth
Our RORO shipping process aims for an effortless journey for your vehicle. Initially, you bring your car to our designated port in the USA. Our skilled team meticulously inspects your vehicle and formally records its condition. Following this, we drive your car onto the RORO vessel and firmly secure it for its ocean crossing. Once the ship reaches the Port of Durban, our local representatives assist with the offloading of your car. Your vehicle then proceeds through the South African customs process, which includes necessary inspections and final clearances.
- We inspect your car before it departs.
- We secure your car safely on the ship.
- Our agents assist at the Port of Durban.
What Kinds of Vehicles Go RORO?
RORO ships are capable of transporting a wide variety of wheeled vehicles and equipment destined for South Africa. This diverse range includes:
- Standard Cars: Such as sedans, SUVs, minivans, and smaller trucks.
- Commercial Vehicles: Larger vans, lorries, and specialized utility trucks.
- Motorcycles and ATVs: Both two-wheeled motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles.
- Boats and Yachts: Smaller watercraft transported on trailers.
- Heavy Machines: Including excavators, bulldozers, tractors, and other substantial construction or agricultural equipment.
Why Pick All Transport Depot for Your Durban Shipment?
Choosing a proficient shipping company for your car’s journey to Durban, South Africa, is critically important. All Transport Depot delivers dependable and punctual RORO services to South African destinations. We strive for utmost customer satisfaction and possess profound expertise in global vehicle shipping. This makes us a highly trusted option for sending vehicles to South Africa.
We Understand South African Shipping
Our team holds substantial experience with the unique aspects of shipping to Southern African ports, including Durban. We fully comprehend the operations of the Port of Durban and have established strong connections with local agents there. This enables us to ensure all processes run smoothly, from the USA departure port to your car’s arrival. Our specialized knowledge helps prevent potential issues and expedites the entire procedure, especially considering South Africa’s specific and sometimes stringent import regulations.
- We understand shipping to South Africa thoroughly.
- We have local contacts in South Africa.
- We resolve issues quickly for complex shipments.
Fair and Clear Prices
We are committed to transparent pricing for RORO shipping to Durban, South Africa. All Transport Depot provides highly competitive rates without compromising on service excellence. Our price quotes explicitly detail all costs, ensuring you encounter no hidden fees. You receive outstanding value, aiding you in managing your budget effectively for your car’s journey to South Africa.
- No surprise fees.
- Prices that offer good value.
- Clear costs to help you budget.
Friendly Customer Support
We prioritize clear communication and personalized assistance throughout your entire shipping experience. Our dedicated customer support team keeps you informed at every stage of the process. They offer timely updates and promptly address any questions you may have. We work diligently to make your RORO shipping trip to Durban as seamless and stress-free as possible.
- Our team responds quickly and is highly knowledgeable.
- We provide regular updates on your shipment.
- We offer personalized assistance for your needs.
Where Your Car Arrives in Durban, South Africa
When your car reaches South Africa, it will enter the Port of Durban, the busiest port in Africa and a major international seaport located on South Africa’s east coast. The Port of Durban is a primary entry point for vehicles, efficiently managing their unloading and initiating the essential customs procedures before you can proceed with collection.
Port of Durban: Africa’s Gateway
The Port of Durban plays a pivotal role in South Africa’s trade and transport infrastructure. It handles a vast array of cargo, including RORO vehicles, and is recognized as one of the busiest and most capable ports in Africa. Its strategic location makes it a crucial gateway for vehicles entering the country. The port boasts:
- Extensive facilities tailored for efficient vehicle handling.
- Advanced logistical systems ensuring rapid and organized vehicle movement.
- Direct connectivity to South Africa’s national road and rail networks.
Getting Your Car from the Port
After your RORO vessel arrives at the Port of Durban, our local agents will guide you through the subsequent necessary steps. This typically involves coordination with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs, settling port-related charges, and ensuring all required import documents are meticulously in order. We provide clear instructions and comprehensive support to facilitate your car’s smooth transition from the port to your possession.
- We assist you in coordinating with port and customs personnel.
- We provide clear instructions for pickup.
- We help with local procedures after arrival.
Papers You Need for RORO Shipping to Durban Port Elizabeth
To ensure your RORO car shipment to Durban, South Africa, proceeds smoothly through customs, you need these critical documents. South Africa has very specific rules, especially concerning import eligibility for used vehicles.
- Original Bill of Lading (BOL): Your primary shipping contract.
- Original Car Title: Proves your ownership of the vehicle.
- Commercial Invoice or Bill of Sale: States the vehicle’s value and purchase details.
- Copy of Your Passport/ID: For identity verification.
- Import Permit from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC): This is mandatory for all vehicle imports (new and used) and outlines specific conditions for import eligibility. You must obtain this before shipping. For used vehicles, permits are very rarely granted, primarily for returning residents, immigrants with permanent residence, or specific classic/racing cars.
- Letter of Authority (LOA) from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS): This certifies that the vehicle complies with South African safety and environmental standards. You must obtain this before shipping.
- Proof of Ownership Period: For returning residents/immigrants claiming exemptions, documentation proving you owned the vehicle for a specific period (usually 6-12 months or more) abroad.
- Cancellation Certificate (for Japanese used vehicles): If importing a used car from Japan.
- Identification Document: Your valid South African ID or passport.
- Permanent Resident Permit: If you are an immigrant.
- Customs Release Notification form (DA304A): To declare your intent to get duty/VAT exemption if you qualify.
- Proof of Insurance: For the shipping journey.
- SARS Importer’s Code: You must register as an importer with SARS and obtain an importer’s code.
South African Customs and Car Rules
Bringing a car into South Africa requires you to follow strict regulations from SARS and the National Department of Transport. Understanding these rules is crucial for a successful import.
Key Import Rules
- Used Vehicle Ban: South Africa has a near-total ban on the import of used passenger vehicles by individuals.
- Strict Exemptions: You can only import a used vehicle under specific exemptions for returning citizens, immigrants, or vintage car collectors.
- Right-Hand Drive Only: Your vehicle must be right-hand drive to be eligible for import.
- Mandatory Permits: You must obtain an Import Permit from ITAC and a Letter of Authority (LOA) from the NRCS before shipping your vehicle. Shipping without these will lead to refusal of entry and severe penalties.
High Taxes and Duties
Be prepared for substantial and cumulative taxes. These can include:
- Customs Duty: A percentage (up to 36%) of the vehicle’s customs value.
- Ad Valorem Excise Duty: A progressive luxury tax on vehicles above a certain value.
- VAT: A standard 15% Value Added Tax on the total value.
Importing a vehicle into South Africa is a significant financial and bureaucratic process. You should only attempt it if you meet a specific exemption.
Customs Procedures for Clearance
Once your car arrives at the Port of Durban, the customs clearance process begins, managed by SARS Customs. This involves your customs broker (or yourself, if you have an importer’s code) submitting a Customs Clearance Declaration (CCD) with all necessary documents. Customs officers will conduct thorough inspections to verify the vehicle’s details and compliance. If your car meets all regulations and passes inspection, you then pay all applicable duties and taxes. After customs release, the vehicle must undergo a roadworthy inspection at a registered Vehicle Testing Station (VTS) and then be registered with the relevant provincial vehicle licensing department to obtain South African license plates.
- Engage a qualified South African customs broker immediately.
- Register with SARS and obtain an importer’s code if you do not have one.
- Submit all required documents promptly, especially the ITAC Import Permit and NRCS LOA.
- Be prepared for detailed inspections and extensive bureaucracy.
- Pay all duties and taxes, which are cumulative and substantial.
- Complete the roadworthy inspection and local registration after customs release.
RORO Shipping Costs to Durban Port Elizabeth: What to Expect
The total cost of RORO shipping to Durban, South Africa, depends heavily on several key factors. These include your car’s type and size, the USA departure port, the shipping line, and fluctuating fuel prices. However, the most significant component of total cost will be the South African import taxes and duties. Understanding these elements helps you budget for your car’s journey.
Main Shipping Prices and What Affects Them
The basic price for RORO to Durban primarily depends on your car’s dimensions. Larger vehicles occupy more space on the ship, leading to higher costs. Ports on the East Coast of the USA (such as Baltimore, New York, Jacksonville) typically offer more frequent sailings to South Africa.
- Your car’s size (length, width, height, weight).
- Which USA port your car departs from.
- Current fuel prices (affecting surcharges) and currency exchange rates.
Other Costs You Might Pay in South Africa
Beyond the fundamental shipping fee, you will incur other costs when importing a car into South Africa. These are typically very high and complex:
- USA and Durban Port Fees: Expect to pay charges for handling, documentation, and storage at both the USA departure port and the Port of Durban.
- Fuel Surcharges and Currency Fluctuations: Be aware that these variable costs can impact your final shipping price.
- South African Import Taxes: Allocate an extremely substantial budget for these cumulative taxes, which include Customs Duty (25-36%), Ad Valorem Excise Duty, and a 15% VAT. These can easily make the total cost more than double the car’s initial value.
- Mandatory Permits and Fees: You must factor in costs for the NRCS Letter of Authority, ITAC Import Permit, roadworthy inspection, and local registration and licensing.
- Customs Broker Fees: You will need to hire a local South African customs broker, and their fees can be substantial.
- Inland Transport Costs: Account for transportation costs from the Port of Durban to your final destination in South Africa.
Always request a detailed price quote that itemizes all these potential costs to prevent financial surprises.
Insurance for Your Car’s Trip
We strongly advise purchasing comprehensive shipping insurance for your car’s RORO journey. While RORO is a secure method, unforeseen events can occur. Insurance safeguards your financial investment against damage or loss during transit. You can typically choose your desired coverage level based on your car’s value.
- Protect your vehicle with shipping insurance.
- Understand various coverage options based on your car’s value.
- Review the insurance policy terms carefully.
Durban: Why RORO Often Works Better Than Container Shipping
When sending a car to Durban, South Africa, RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping is frequently a more practical and often more economical choice than traditional container shipping. RORO’s design and operational efficiency offer clear advantages for transporting vehicles.
Saves You Money
RORO generally incurs lower costs than container shipping for vehicles. You avoid expenses associated with container rental, as well as the labor involved in packing and unpacking your car within a sealed box. Since vehicles drive directly onto the ship and are secured on open decks, less labor and fewer materials are necessary. This streamlined approach makes RORO a cost-effective option for vehicle transportation, especially for new cars.
- No container rental or handling fees.
- Reduced labor for packing and unpacking.
- Transparent pricing often means fewer unexpected costs.
Faster and Smoother Process
RORO vessels are specifically designed for rapid loading and unloading of vehicles. Cars simply drive on and off using built-in ramps. This significantly accelerates the process and reduces ship turnaround times in port. Your car’s overall transit time is often quicker compared to container shipping, which requires more time for crane operations and specialized equipment.
- Quick loading and unloading.
- Less waiting time in ports.
- Less handling minimizes the risk of damage.
Good for Many Car Types and Inspections
RORO offers greater flexibility for various vehicle types and sizes. While containers have fixed dimensions, RORO ships can accommodate everything from compact cars to large trucks, SUVs, and even oversized construction equipment or boats on trailers. This makes RORO a versatile choice for almost any self-propelled vehicle. Moreover, the open nature of RORO allows South African customs officials to easily inspect vehicles, which can help expedite the clearance process in a country known for rigorous inspections.
- Accommodates vehicles of all sizes.
- Can transport very large wheeled equipment.
- Facilitates efficient customs inspections.
Smart Tips for an Easy RORO Trip to Durban
To ensure a smooth and stress-free RORO shipping experience to Durban, South Africa, you need meticulous planning and strict adherence to regulations. Follow these tips to help your car import proceed efficiently.
Get Your Papers Ready and Understand South Africa’s Strict Rules
Having all your documentation accurate and complete is paramount. Double-check every form: the Bill of Lading, original car title, bill of sale, and passport copies. Crucially, obtain both the ITAC Import Permit and NRCS Letter of Authority before your car ships. Be keenly aware of South Africa’s stringent rules, especially the near-total ban on used car imports by individuals unless you meet specific, narrow exemptions (e.g., returning resident). Any errors or omissions will lead to significant delays, hefty fines, or even the refusal of entry or forced re-export of your vehicle. Keep multiple copies of all your documents.
- Ensure all your papers are accurate and complete.
- Secure the mandatory ITAC Import Permit and NRCS Letter of Authority before shipping.
- Understand the strict eligibility for used car imports (generally only for returning residents/immigrants under specific conditions).
- Retain both digital and physical copies of all documents.
Prepare Your Car Thoroughly (Crucial!)
Before shipping, meticulously prepare your car. Remove all personal items and valuables from the interior. South African Customs conducts extremely thorough inspections, and discovering personal belongings will result in significant delays, substantial fines, or even the refusal of entry for your vehicle. Also, ensure your car has minimal fuel—just enough to drive on and off the ship (approximately a quarter tank). Check for and rectify any fluid leaks, as shipping companies enforce strict rules against them. Clean your car thoroughly, both inside and out.
- Remove all personal belongings from the car.
- Ensure the car has minimal fuel (around 1/4 tank).
- Fix any fluid leaks to comply with shipping regulations.
- Clean the car meticulously inside and out.
Choose a Reputable Shipping Company and a Mandatory Local Broker
Selecting a shipping company with demonstrated experience is vital, especially for destinations with highly complex and strict regulations like South Africa. Choose a company with a clear track record of successful RORO shipments to Southern Africa. A reliable company offers transparent communication, fair pricing, and expert guidance. Crucially, engaging a trustworthy and experienced South African customs broker (“clearing agent”) is not just recommended, but practically mandatory to navigate the intricate import process and tax calculations.
- Verify the shipping company’s experience with RORO to South Africa.
- Look for clear pricing and comprehensive service.
- Select a company with excellent customer support and partner with a reliable local customs broker before shipping.
FAQ
What does RORO Shipping Mean?
RORO, or Roll-On/Roll-off, is a method where you drive wheeled vehicles directly onto and off a specialized vessel using ramps.
How Does RORO Shipping Work for Durban?
You drive your car onto a ship at a USA port. After securing it, the vessel transports it to the Port of Durban. There, it undergoes customs checks, tax payments, and roadworthy inspections before you can register and drive it.
What are the Main Advantages of RORO Shipping to Durban and Port Elizabeth?
The main advantages are its lower cost and faster transit times compared to container shipping. It also accommodates a variety of vehicle types and simplifies mandatory customs inspections.
How is RORO Shipping Different from Container Shipping for South Africa?
RORO involves driving vehicles onto open decks, while container shipping places them inside sealed boxes. RORO is generally faster and more cost-effective for functional vehicles. Container shipping is better for non-running or high-value cars, but it costs more.
Can I Ship a Car That Doesn’t Run to Durban with RORO?
RORO shipping requires vehicles to be in working condition. If your car is non-operational, you must arrange for towing services or consider container shipping. South African port regulations are very strict.
Is My Car Insured During RORO Shipping?
Yes, you can purchase shipping insurance. Most companies offer coverage to protect your vehicle from damage or loss. We highly recommend comprehensive coverage for all South African shipments.
Can I Put Personal Items in My Car for RORO Shipping to Durban and Port Elizabeth?
No. You cannot leave any personal items in your car. South African customs regulations are extremely strict, and discovering personal belongings will result in significant fines, delays, or even confiscation of your vehicle.
Does RORO Shipping to Durban Include Door-to-Door Service?
RORO shipping is a port-to-port service. You drop your car at a USA port and collect it in Durban. We can arrange additional inland transport services for an extra charge.
Is RORO Shipping Environmentally Friendly?
Compared to air freight, RORO shipping uses less fuel per vehicle. Its efficient loading and unloading processes also make it a more environmentally sound option than other complex transport methods.
How to Contact South African Government Groups for Car Import Questions
For specific questions regarding car imports, duties, and regulations in South Africa, contact these official government bodies. Due to the complexity and strictness of South African import laws, engaging a local customs broker (“clearing agent”) is highly advisable.
South African Revenue Service (SARS) – Customs
- Website: www.sars.gov.za (Look for Customs and Excise sections)
- SARS Contact Centre (within SA): 0800 00 7277
- SARS International Contact: +27 11 602 2093 (confirm latest international number)
- Email:
contactus@sars.gov.za(General inquiries, specific import questions are often directed through their online portal or a customs broker). - Physical Address (Head Office): Lehae La Sars Building, 299 Bronkhorst Street, New Muckleneuk, Brooklyn, Pretoria. (Local customs offices are available in major cities/ports like Durban).
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.