Ship Car To Addis Ababa


Car Shipping Addis Ababa
As the largest city in Ethiopia, Addis Ababa has many incredible sights and activities to participate in. This city is rich in culture and is home to over 3 million people. If you plan on staying in Addis Ababa for a while, consider transporting your car there so you can explore the city freely.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Addis Ababa
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Limits to (California port) to San Jose, CA | $200 | $4600 | 5+42 days |
| Local Delivery to (California port) to Los Angeles | $350 | $4600 | 5+42 days |
| Form this City to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $400 | $3500 | 5+29 days |
| Addis Ababa to (California port) to Phoenix, AZ | $550 | $4600 | 6+42 days |
| Form this Area to (New York port) to Detroit, MI | $575 | $3500 | 6+29 days |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to the Area | $675 | $3500 | 6+29 days |
| City Limits to (New York port) to Atlanta, GA | $700 | $3500 | 6+29 days |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to the Area | $775 | $4600 | 7+42 days |
| Miami, FL to (New York port) to Addis Ababa | $925 | $3500 | 7+29 days |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to the Area | $1,025 | $4600 | 7+42 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 vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for 1 car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle 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.
Requirements for Moving a Vehicle Overseas

The requirements for transporting your vehicle into Northern Africa are pretty consistent from port to port. Although customs regulation varies throughout the continent, you’ll want to be prepared for changes known to occur. To avoid theft, shipping services require shippers to present proof of ownership of the vehicle as well as other documents, which include:
- Drivers License.
- Title and Registration.
- Seaway Bill.
- Proof of Insurance.
- Proof of Residency.
How the Cost of Freight a Vehicle Is Determined
Transport companies can give their customers a quote over the phone for their specific transporting service fees. Other taxes, such as foreign customs duty or offloading fees, differ and must be paid on arrival. Those transporting an auto can pay for the shipping process using a credit card or cashier’s check; personal checks are usually unaccepted.
A transport company's rate can vary depending on the shipper's specifications, such as the vehicle's weight and the mode of shipment. Vehicles can be transported in enclosed containers or on open decks of ships. Offloading costs are also more significant for container shipping. Batteries, coolants, and oils that leak during transport add additional costs.

Preparing a Vehicle for Overseas Cargo
After you have the proper documents ready, you should document damages to the vehicle and have it fully serviced. This will ensure that the car is prepared to be driven and won’t cause issues for customs. Personal items must be removed from the vehicle if the shipper doesn’t use a container. Personal items left inside of the car cannot be insured and are subject to additional taxes and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ship a car to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia?
You ship a car to Addis Ababa by arranging inland transport to a U.S. port, ocean freight to Djibouti, then overland delivery into Ethiopia. Most vehicles move by container shipping or roll-on roll-off service, depending on size and budget. Factors include vehicle condition, shipping method, port congestion, and Ethiopian import clearance timing. Professional coordination through an experienced international car shipping service helps reduce delays.
How long does it take to ship a car to Addis Ababa?
Total transit time is usually 6–10 weeks. Ocean freight from the U.S. takes 4–6 weeks, followed by customs processing and inland transport from Djibouti to Addis Ababa. Delays may occur due to port congestion, document reviews, or holiday closures. Shipping during peak export seasons can add time. Working with a single coordinator improves scheduling accuracy and handoffs across borders.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Addis Ababa from the USA?
Shipping a car to Addis Ababa typically costs $2,800–$5,500. Pricing depends on origin port, container vs RoRo, vehicle size, fuel surcharges, and inland transport from Djibouti. Customs duties and Ethiopian taxes are separate. SUVs and non-running vehicles cost more due to space and handling. For transit-based estimates, review international vehicle shipping rates through an international shipping cost calculator.
What documents are required to import a car into Ethiopia?
Importing a car into Ethiopia requires the original title, bill of sale, passport copy, shipping invoice, and a customs declaration. Ethiopia enforces strict rules on vehicle age, emissions, and left-hand drive compliance. Duties and taxes are assessed at entry. Missing or incorrect paperwork can cause costly delays, so document review before departure is essential for clearance success.
Can I ship a car to Addis Ababa using roll-on roll-off service?
Yes, roll-on roll-off shipping is available for vehicles shipped to East Africa via Djibouti. The car must be operable, empty, and meet port safety rules. RoRo is usually $800–$1,500 cheaper than container shipping but offers less protection. High-clearance vehicles and daily drivers are common RoRo candidates. Learn more about vehicle eligibility under RoRo car shipping options.
Can I ship a car from Dubai to Addis Ababa instead of the USA?
Yes, car shipping from Dubai to Addis Ababa is common and often faster than U.S. routes. Vehicles usually ship from Jebel Ali to Djibouti, then move inland by truck. Costs generally range $1,800–$3,500, depending on container use and vehicle size. Regional exports may simplify sourcing but still require full Ethiopian customs compliance and inland logistics coordination.

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