Ship Car To Kigali

Last updated Mar, 23 2026
Ship Car To Kigali

Car Shipping Kigali

This is the capital of Rwanda and the country’s largest city. It is located near the region's geographic center and has been the country's economic, cultural, and transport hub since its independence in 1962. Since 2010, this country has been using an integrated vehicle registration system with other East African countries, allowing people to take advantage of a simplified registration procedure that is the same for everyone. There is an exemption on the import duty for area residents who are returning to the country. NGOs, as well as government aid workers and diplomats, can also take advantage of duty exemptions.

There is no age limit for the vehicles brought into the country, but they must be with a left-sided steering wheel, which is mandatory. Interestingly enough, the most common motors in the country are Toyotas, and there are plenty of spare parts for them in case you need a repair. You can also find parts for other brands, but they might be delivered elsewhere if you need servicing in the country.

The country's roads are rather rough compared to U.S. and European standards. Some of them are paved, but most are made out of dirt and unpaved. This is why it’s recommended to use a four-wheel drive. You must contact an experienced shipping service such as A1 Auto Transport to learn more about driving in Rwanda.

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Cost & Time Examples For Hauling a Vehicle

To/From KigaliGroundOceanEstimated
Time (in days)
City Limits to (New York dork)
to New York, NY
$275$46005+39
Local Delivery to (California port)
to Los Angeles
$350$55005+47
Las Vegas, NV to (California dork)
to the Area
$450$55005+47
Phoenix, AZ to (California terminal)
to Kigali
$550$55006+47
Seattle, WA to (California port)
to the Area
$550$55006+47
Local Delivery to (New York terminal)
to Charlotte, NC
$575$46006+39
Chicago, IL to (New York hub)
to the Area
$675$46006+39
Miami, FL to (New York port)
to Kigali
$925$46007+39
City Limits to (California dork)
to Dallas, TX
$1,025$55007+47
Houston, TX to (New York port)
to the Area
$1,075$46007+39

*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 motor in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to haul 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.

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Taxes and documents

What follows is information on the taxes to pay and the documents to submit so you can get your four-wheeler imported into Rwanda.

  • Lading bill and an invoice of purchase.
  • Origin Certificate.
  • Registration and Title proof.
  • Driver’s license and international insurance policy.
  • Visa or a passport.

For any further questions and visa categories, it is preferable to contact the Embassy of Rwanda. You should be aware that UK and USA citizens don’t need visas but need a certificate stating they are not suffering from Yellow Fever.

two vehicles stationed next to a massive container vessel

Taxes

The taxes are as follows:

  • Customs duty – 24%
  • Withholding tax – 5%
  • Tax of consumption – it may vary depending on the vehicle.
  • Customs duty – 24%
  • VAT – 18%

Vehicle delivery containers are often used because of how convenient they are when additional items need to be transported alongside a vehicle. Since there is no restriction on how else the unused space in the container can be used, this is entirely feasible. I know this raises some eyebrows about the price tag, but I am confident you will agree that it is justified. Depending on your needs, you and a friend can split the cost between a 20- or 40-foot container.

Roll On/Roll Off shifting entails placing a motor onto a shipping deck and putting it onto its actual wheels. The vehicle is driven on the ship and then driven off it once it arrives at the destination. This is the most preferred means of transportation because it is the cheapest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ship a car to Kigali, Rwanda from the United States?

To ship a car to Kigali from the United States, the vehicle is first transported to a major export port such as Baltimore, New York, or Houston, then shipped by sea to East Africa before moving inland to Rwanda. Most vehicles arrive through ports like Mombasa in Kenya or Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and are then trucked to Kigali. Transit time typically ranges from 6 to 10 weeks depending on route schedules, port processing, and inland transport logistics. Learn more about the process through international car shipping services.

How long does it take to ship a car to Kigali from the USA?

Shipping a vehicle from the United States to Kigali typically takes 40 to 65 days from pickup to final delivery. Ocean transit usually takes 25 to 35 days, depending on the departure port and the shipping line. After the vessel arrives at the East African port, the vehicle must clear customs and then be transported inland by truck to Rwanda. Additional time may be required during peak seasons or when port congestion occurs.

What is the average ship car to Kigali price from the USA?

The average ship car to Kigali price from the United States typically ranges between $3,200 and $6,500. The final cost depends on vehicle size, shipping method, departure port, and inland transport from the arrival port to Kigali. SUVs and trucks cost more because of their weight and dimensions, while compact sedans are cheaper to ship. Ocean freight rates and fuel surcharges can also influence pricing. You can estimate current rates using a car shipping cost calculator.

What shipping methods are available when shipping to Rwanda Kigali?

Two primary ocean shipping methods are used when shipping to Rwanda Kigali: Roll-on/Roll-off and container shipping. Roll-on/Roll-off allows vehicles to be driven directly onto the vessel, making it the most economical option for standard cars. Container shipping places the vehicle inside a sealed container, offering extra protection for luxury or classic vehicles. The choice depends on vehicle value, security needs, and shipping budget. You can compare pricing and logistics through RoRo vehicle shipping options.

What taxes and duties apply when importing a car into Rwanda?

Rwanda applies several import charges on vehicles, including import duty, VAT, and excise tax, which can total 40 percent to 80 percent of the vehicle’s assessed value depending on engine size and vehicle age. Rwanda also restricts imports of vehicles older than 8 years to reduce emissions and environmental impact. Customs valuation is based on CIF value, which includes the car price, insurance, and shipping cost. Importers must also provide registration and ownership documents.

Can luxury or classic vehicles be safely shipped to Kigali?

Yes, luxury, exotic, and classic vehicles can be safely shipped to Kigali using enclosed or container transport. Container shipping protects vehicles from weather exposure, salt air, and port handling risks during long-distance ocean travel. Owners often choose this method for high-value cars, collector vehicles, or specialty models. Proper loading, bracing, and insurance coverage help ensure safe international delivery. For additional protection options, see enclosed auto transport solutions.

Kennith Collins
Seamless Car Shipping Experience to Kigali
★★★★★

I recently used A1 Auto Transport to ship my car to Kigali, and I'm really pleased with the experience. The process was smooth from start to finish. The customer service team was very informative, and my vehicle arrived safely and on time. I highly recommend A1 Auto Transport for anyone looking to ship their car to Kigali!

Steven Sweat
Reliable Car Shipping Service to Rwanda's Capital
★★★★★

Shipping my car to Kigali in Rwanda was an easy and stress-free experience with A1 Auto Transport. Their team kept me updated throughout the whole process, and my car arrived in perfect condition. I am so happy with their professional service. If you need a reliable transport service for Rwanda's capital, I highly recommend them!

Carolyn Christiansen
Great Service for the City of a Thousand Hills
★★★★★

As a resident of Kigali, also known as the City of a Thousand Hills, I was thrilled with the quality of service from A1 Auto Transport. They made the whole process of shipping my vehicle incredibly simple and hassle-free. My car arrived safely, and the team was helpful every step of the way. If you're shipping a car here, trust A1 to handle it!

Sharon Stewart
Stress-Free Car Shipping to Kigali's Nyamirambo District
★★★★★

I was so pleased with A1 Auto Transport when shipping my car to Kigali, especially as my destination was the Nyamirambo district. The delivery was on time, and my vehicle arrived in great condition. Their attention to detail and customer service are second to none. I recommend their services to anyone planning to ship to this wonderful part of Kigali.

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A-1 Auto Transport is a disclosed agent for the following shipping companies:

CSI Logistics
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45 Campus Drive
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NO. 17858N
Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.
3401 E Randol Mill Rd,
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CFR Rinkens
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NO. 013055NF
ABC Worldwide LLC
2840 NW 2nd Ave #105
Boca Raton, FL 33431
NO. 025472F
ShipYourCarNow LLC
1160 South Rogers Circle Suite 1
Boca Raton, FL 33487
NO. 025646
Merco Air & Ocean Cargo, Inc.
6 Fir Way
Cooper City, FL 33026
NO. 021869F