Shipping vehicles from the United States to South Africa has become increasingly popular due to strong demand for American sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, motorcycles, and heavy machinery. One of the most reliable and cost-effective methods for transporting vehicles overseas is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping. Whether you’re exporting a personal vehicle, commercial fleet, or construction equipment, RORO provides a fast, secure, and efficient solution.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and machinery logistics, offering seamless RORO shipping from major U.S. ports to South Africa. With weekly sailings, competitive pricing, and full export management, we ensure your shipment reaches its destination safely and without complications.
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Why Choose RORO Shipping to South Africa?
RORO shipping is widely used for vehicle exports because of its simplicity, speed, and affordability. Vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel, secured in designated decks, and driven off upon arrival—eliminating unnecessary handling.
Key Advantages of RORO Shipping
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Cost-effective: Lower rates than container shipping
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Fast loading & discharge: Minimal handling reduces delays
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Lower risk of damage: No cranes or container stuffing
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Ideal for all vehicle types: Cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles
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Perfect for heavy machinery: Excavators, bulldozers, agricultural equipment
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Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted at extra cost
RORO remains the preferred shipping method for both individuals and commercial buyers importing vehicles into South Africa.
Popular RORO Ports in the United States
Vehicles and equipment shipped to South Africa depart from several major U.S. export ports. Selecting the right port helps reduce inland transport costs and transit time.
Major U.S. RORO Export Ports
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Newark, New Jersey (EWR)
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Baltimore, Maryland (BAL)
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Savannah, Georgia (SAV)
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Jacksonville, Florida (JAXPORT)
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Galveston, Texas (GLS)
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Freeport, Texas
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Los Angeles / Long Beach, California – Ideal for West Coast shipments
How to Choose the Best U.S. Port
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Choose the closest port to your vehicle’s location
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East Coast ports often provide faster sailings
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Compare sailing frequency and total costs
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Ask All Transport Depot about discounted port rates
South African Ports That Accept RORO Cargo
South Africa has several modern ports equipped to receive RORO vessels, making it a key gateway for vehicle imports into Southern Africa.
1. Durban Port
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Largest and busiest port in Africa
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Primary entry point for vehicle imports
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Suitable for cars, SUVs, trucks, and heavy machinery
2. Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
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Excellent for automotive imports
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Efficient customs clearance
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Serves Eastern Cape and surrounding regions
3. Cape Town Port
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Ideal for customers in Western Cape
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Handles passenger vehicles and machinery
Each port follows South African Revenue Service (SARS) customs procedures and vehicle import regulations.
Vehicles & Machinery Shipped via RORO to South Africa
RORO shipping accommodates a wide variety of vehicle types and equipment, making it a versatile solution for personal and commercial shipments.
Passenger Vehicles
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Sedans
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Hatchbacks
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SUVs
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Crossovers
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Minivans
Commercial Vehicles
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Pickup trucks
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Cargo vans
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Buses
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Box trucks
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Flatbeds
Heavy Machinery
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Bulldozers
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Excavators
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Wheel loaders
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Forklifts
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Tractors
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Agricultural machinery
Other Equipment
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Motorcycles
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Boats & jet skis
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RVs and mobile units
Non-Running Units
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Accepted with forklift handling
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Additional port charges apply
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Early delivery to port required
Cost of RORO Shipping to South Africa (2025 Guide)
RORO shipping rates vary based on several factors, including vehicle size, condition, port of departure, and seasonal demand.
Factors That Affect RORO Rates
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Vehicle size & type
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U.S. departure port
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Running vs. non-running condition
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Weight & dimensions (for machinery)
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Shipping season & vessel availability
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Documentation and port charges
Estimated Price Ranges
(Actual pricing varies—contact All Transport Depot for current rates.)
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Sedan: Lowest RORO rates
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SUV: Moderately higher due to size
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Pickup Truck: Based on length and height
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Heavy Machinery: Charged by cubic meters (CBM)
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to South Africa
Proper documentation ensures a smooth export from the U.S. and faster clearance upon arrival.
Required Documents
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Original Vehicle Title
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Bill of Sale
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Copy of Passport or Government ID
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Export Power of Attorney (provided by All Transport Depot)
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Consignee details in South Africa
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Customs clearing agent information (recommended)
Additional permits may be required for certain vehicle categories.
Step-by-Step: How to Ship a Car from USA to South Africa via RORO
All Transport Depot manages the entire export process to ensure a stress-free experience.
1. Request a Shipping Quote
Submit vehicle details, pickup location, and destination port.
2. Vehicle Pickup or Port Delivery
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Door-to-port service available
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Or deliver directly to the port
3. Vehicle Inspection
Port inspection prior to vessel loading.
4. U.S. Export Clearance
Export filings and customs processing handled by our team.
5. RORO Vessel Loading
Vehicle is driven onto the vessel and secured.
6. Ocean Transit
Vessel sails on scheduled routes to South Africa.
7. Arrival & Customs Clearance
Your clearing agent handles:
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Import duties & VAT
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Customs inspection
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Port and terminal fees
8. Vehicle Release
Vehicle is collected from the port by the consignee.
Transit Time from USA to South Africa
Transit times vary depending on the U.S. departure port and the South African port of arrival.
Estimated Transit Durations
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East Coast to Durban: ~25–35 days
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Gulf Coast to Durban: ~28–40 days
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West Coast to South Africa: ~45–60 days
Transit schedules may vary due to weather, port congestion, and seasonal demand.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to South Africa
Customers can reduce shipping costs by following these best practices:
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Ship from the closest U.S. port
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Avoid peak shipping seasons
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Keep the vehicle running to avoid extra fees
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Submit documents early
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Work with a licensed exporter like All Transport Depot
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Book shipments in advance
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping to South Africa
Avoiding common errors helps prevent delays and extra charges:
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Missing or incomplete documentation
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Leaving personal items inside the vehicle
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Incorrect consignee information
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Using unlicensed agents
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Late customs submissions
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Ignoring port storage timelines
Why Ship With All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted name in U.S. to South Africa vehicle and equipment shipping.
Why Customers Choose Us
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Licensed & bonded FMC NVOCC
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Weekly RORO sailings to South Africa
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Competitive and transparent pricing
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Nationwide pickup services
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Fast documentation processing
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Experience with heavy machinery exports
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Dedicated customer support
Our mission is to make international shipping simple, affordable, and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed car to South Africa?
Only with written approval from the lienholder.
• Does the vehicle have to be running?
Running vehicles are cheaper, but non-running units are accepted.
• Can I ship personal items inside the vehicle?
No. RORO requires empty interiors.
• How long does customs clearance take in South Africa?
Typically 3–7 business days, depending on SARS processing.
• What is the cheapest way to ship a car to South Africa?
RORO shipping is usually 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
David is a seasoned logistics coordinator at Miami Auto Shippers. With over a decade of experience, he excels in organizing the smooth and efficient transportation of vehicles. He’s known for his attention to detail and ensuring every car reaches its destination safely.