Shipping a vehicle from the United States to West Africa or the Middle East is a well-established process, but it involves several moving parts: quotes, documentation, port schedules, ocean transit, and customs. This guide walks you through the entire journey step by step so you know exactly what to expect and what is required of you at each stage.
Step 1: Get a quote
Start by requesting a quote for your shipment. To give you an accurate price, we need a few details:
- The type of vehicle or cargo (car, SUV, truck, heavy equipment)
- Its dimensions and weight for oversized or non-standard items
- Your destination port or city
- Whether the vehicle is running or non-running
Request a quote and our team will recommend the best shipping method and give you a clear price.
Step 2: Choose your shipping method
There are two main ways to ship a vehicle overseas:
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): the vehicle is driven onto a specialized vessel and secured for transit. It is cost-effective and ideal for running vehicles and heavy equipment.
- Container shipping: the vehicle is loaded into a sealed container, offering maximum protection and the option to include personal effects where regulations allow.
If you are unsure which is right for you, see our guide on RoRo vs. container shipping.
Step 3: Prepare your documentation
Customs clearance depends on complete, accurate paperwork. For most vehicle shipments you will need:
- The vehicle title (see our Export Title Guidelines)
- A commercial invoice and packing list
- The bill of lading issued for your shipment
- Any import or export licenses required by the destination country
Requirements vary by destination, so our team confirms the exact list with you before the vehicle reaches the port.
Step 4: Deliver the vehicle to the port
Once your booking is confirmed, the vehicle must reach the departure terminal before the sailing cut-off date. You can drop it off yourself or arrange inland transport through our land transport service. Check current sailing schedules so you can plan around the cut-off.
Step 5: Loading and departure
At the terminal, the vehicle is inspected, checked in, and loaded, driven aboard for RoRo, or secured inside a container. Once the vessel sails, ocean transit begins.
Step 6: Track your shipment in transit
You do not have to wait in the dark. Follow your shipment through our tracking page; for vehicles, our VIN tracking system shows the status at each stage. Learn more in our guide on tracking a Grimaldi RoRo shipment.
Step 7: Customs clearance and delivery
When the vessel arrives, the vehicle is discharged and goes through customs clearance at the destination. Our customs clearance service handles the filing and compliance so your vehicle is released smoothly. From there, it is ready for collection or final inland delivery.
Ready to ship?
Global Kings Logistics manages every step above, from the first quote to delivery at the destination, for shippers moving vehicles and cargo from the USA to West Africa and the Middle East.
Request a quote to get started, or contact us with any questions.