
Car Shipping Accra
Accra is the largest city in Ghana. It is situated along the present Ghanaian Atlantic coast, extends along the northern regions of Ghana, and was built as a port city.
There are plenty of reasons to move to Accra, starting with a job, as a returning citizen, or even for further studies, but it is vital to import your vehicle while planning to move here.
You might have to select the correct shipping procedure while importing your car to Ghana. The Roll On/Roll-Off service, or RORO, is the most cost-effective option. You are charged for space, which your automobile will use while shipping. Though the vehicle is exposed to varying climatic conditions, it is cheaper to use this method. Besides spare keys, extra tires, and floor mats, don’t leave anything in your motorcar when you ship using RORO; only leave ¼ tank fuel.
If you ship the vehicle using a container, your automobile will be in a spacious 20-foot or 40-foot container. The container is uploaded on the ship using cranes and unloaded similarly. To ensure that the import is legal, you need to provide some valid information about your automobile before shipping, including the model, make, and year of the motorcar. These statistics help determine the dimensions, as they are essential for measuring the space on the ship, especially if you plan on shipping by RORO. If you have an expensive vehicle, you can always opt for some additional insurance. Let A1 Auto Transport service assist you with the nuances of car insurance.
Choosing Between RoRo and Container Shipping
Selecting the appropriate shipping method is vital for balancing cost and vehicle protection. Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is generally more cost-effective, as vehicles are driven onto the ship and secured for transit. However, this method exposes the vehicle to external elements. Conversely, container shipping offers enhanced protection by enclosing the car within a container, shielding it from weather and potential damage. While container shipping is typically more expensive, it is advisable for high-value or classic cars.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Accra
To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
---|---|---|---|
Accra to (California port) to San Jose, CA | $200 | $3850 | 5+51 days |
City limits to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $400 | $2650 | 5+39 days |
Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to Accra | $450 | $3850 | 5+51 days |
Portland, OR to (California port) to the area | $475 | $3850 | 6+51 days |
City limits to (California port) to Seattle, WA | $550 | $3850 | 6+51 days |
Accra to (New York port) to Columbus, OH | $550 | $2650 | 5+39 days |
Detroit, MI to (New York port) to local area | $575 | $2650 | 6+39 days |
Accra to (New York port) to Chicago, IL | $675 | $2650 | 6+39 days |
Local delivery to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $3850 | 7+51 days |
Houston, TX to (New York port) to the area | $1,075 | $2650 | 7+39 days |

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the automobile to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a motorcar internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipping
Proper preparation of your vehicle before shipping can prevent delays and additional charges. Ensure the car is thoroughly cleaned inside and out to meet Ghana's strict biosecurity standards. Remove all personal belongings and ensure the fuel tank is no more than a quarter full. Additionally, gather all necessary documentation, including the original title, bill of sale, and insurance papers, to facilitate a smooth customs clearance process.
Import Duties and Taxes
When importing a vehicle into Ghana, knowing the associated duties and taxes is essential. The import duty is calculated based on the vehicle's Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value, typically ranging from 5% to 20% depending on the vehicle's category. A Value Added Tax (VAT) of 12.5% applies to the CIF value plus the import duty. Other charges may include the National Health Insurance Levy (2.5%), ECOWAS Levy (0.5%), and examination fees (1%). Budgeting for these costs is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses during the import process.
Specific motor vehicle regulations in Ghana
While shipping the vehicle to Accra, ensure that it isn’t very old. Ghana Customs officials will not allow any automobile over ten years of age.

- The current S. Customs and Border Protection Agency needs documentation before exporting. For that, an original sales bill is required.
- You need a clear title deed to show your vehicle is free from the lien. If there is a lien, you might have to get a notarized letter from the lienholder as authorization to ship it abroad.
- Registration, driver's license, passport, and insurance proof are some extra documents you should provide before hauling your motorcar to Ghana. Ghana Customs officials mostly require these documents to inspect and validate the legality of imports.
- The vehicle needs to be operational so that it can be driven on and off the ship whenever the need arises. It must adhere to the standard emission levels and be without any malfunction, as roadworthiness is tested.
- After your automobile reaches the Ghana port in Accra, there is a port tax. This tax needs to be cleared before the motorcar can clear customs.
However, the total shipping cost to Ghana and the transit time depend on various factors, which A1 Auto Transport service can help you with. When the shipping service correctly completes all documents and procedures, the import of the automobile is more straightforward. To get more details on the current laws and regulations, contact the Embassy of Ghana.
Ghana Customs and Registration
Once your vehicle arrives in Accra, it must undergo customs clearance and local registration before it can be legally driven in Ghana. Customs officials will inspect the vehicle and verify its declared value, so having accurate and complete documentation is essential. After clearing customs, you must register the car with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). This includes obtaining local plates and undergoing a roadworthiness inspection. Partnering with a knowledgeable shipping provider can streamline this process and help you avoid costly delays.
Final Thoughts
Shipping your car to Accra can be a wise investment, especially when you plan and understand the regulations. Whether relocating for work, returning home, or spending an extended period in Ghana, having your vehicle adds convenience and independence. You can ensure a smooth, stress-free transition by selecting the right shipping method, preparing your documentation, and staying informed about taxes and customs procedures. With experienced support from a trusted international car shipping company, your vehicle will be road-ready and waiting when you arrive in Accra.