Ship Car To Malawi


Ship Your Auto Mobile To or From Malawi
How Much Does It Cost?
- Direct auto shipping costs to Malawi from the U.S. are most often in the range of $3,200 and $6,200, though there is some variance due to import costs, registration and taxes once the vehicle arrives.
- Smaller and standard-sized cars are cheaper to ship than larger ones that may not fit inside of a transport container.
Cost & Time Examples For Delivery
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY to (New York port) to City Limits | $275 | $4,700 | 5+36 |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to Lilongwe | $350 | $8,900 | 5+44 |
| Boston, MA to (New York port) to Local Area | $400 | $4,700 | 5+36 |
| Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to Blantyre | $450 | $7,200 | 5+44 |
| Seattle, WA to (California port) to Local Delivery | $550 | $8,900 | 6+44 |
| Detroit, MI to (New York port) to Lilongwe | $575 | $6,400 | 6+36 |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to City Limits | $675 | $6,400 | 6+36 |
| Denver, CO to (California port) to Blantyre | $775 | $7,200 | 7+44 |
| Memphis, TN to (New York port) to Local Area | $800 | $6,400 | 6+36 |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to Lilongwe | $1,025 | $8,900 | 7+44 |
*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 one 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.

Malawi is a wonderful landlocked country in Southeast Africa with a ton to do and see, from safari animals to boating on Lake Malawi. Many people come from all over to visit the country, which Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique border.
While visiting for an extended length of time or even relocating to the Republic of Malawi permanently, having a personal vehicle to travel quicker and more freely will be of great convenience. The country has plenty of roadways and is bordered by so many other great countries that traveling locally is relatively simple.
Popular Destinations
The Roadways in Malawi
The roadways in Malawi consist of 9,601 miles. Less than half of the roads are paved. However, all of them are relatively convenient for personal vehicle travel. U.S. citizens must be cautious while driving on the unpaved roadways throughout the country. However, Malawi is constantly trying hard to improve the roadways; whether roads are paved or unpaved, travel to nearly any country is possible.
Traveling outside of Malawi is effortless, and some highways can take you to all bordering countries. Having a personal vehicle will cut any travel expenses for local travel and ultimately save a vehicle owner money.
Requirements for Shifting
Hauling a vehicle isn't difficult and can be done for anyone moving from the United States to Malawi. There aren't many restrictions, and standard documentation is needed.

- The owner must own the vehicle for at least a year.
- Only one vehicle per family is permitted in Malawi.
- Proof of ownership, proof of vehicle purchase, and Certificate of Registration are needed.
- The vehicle's value can not exceed K500, which is 500 kwacha (Malawi currency).
The owner can have an agent deliver the vehicle to them if necessary, but someone must be present at the time of the vehicle's arrival at any of the nearby ports.
Required Documents For Transporting
- Registration card
- Passport
- Invoice
- Bill of lading
- Employment contract (if applicable)
How do you decide between RO/RO or container shifting?
When considering all the possible methods of relocating a vehicle from the U.S. to Malawi, container shipping and RO/RO are the most common options. While a car can be hauled by air, this is a costly method of importing.
- RO/RO shipping is the easiest option in the pocketbook. It is a cheap, sufficient means of importation that allows the car to be driven onto and off the ship. However, this means the vehicle must remain empty except for floor mats, a car jack, and a spare tire.
- Container shifting allows for more belongings to be relocated with the vehicle. The vehicle can be filled with personal property and the container itself. A container can also be shared with another person, easing the cost of hauling. Make sure that all property is allowed to be imported into Malawi.

Shifting Of Heavy Equipment & Oversized Cargo
In addition to autos, we can also carry almost any kind of heavy machinery or bulky freight. We can easily carry large and oversized freight throughout the country and worldwide since we have access to the best and most reliable shipping equipment and cutting-edge shipping technologies. In addition, we have personnel who have undergone extensive training and education to assist you in navigating the Customs clearance certification procedure.
We have hauled all kinds of cargo outside of the United States. We are sure that we can successfully deliver your cargo into Malawi (lawfully permitting) regardless of what it is. To give you a sense of what we can and have relocated overseas, here is a brief list…
- Compactors
- Tractors
- Excavator
- Skid Steer Loaders
- Backhoe Loaders
- Telescopic Handlers
- Graders
- Asphalt Pavers
- Trenchers
- Dump Trucks and Other Large Vehicles
- RVs
- Pontoon Boats and Yachts
- Harvesters
What Are My Options?
We offer a variety of overseas hauling services and features. As for our methods of international transport, we have four excellent solutions. However, some of these options may not be available to you. The transport methods you can use will depend on the type of heavy equipment or oversized cargo you are transporting.
Our Services
- Container Transport- An enclosed transport service that offers the ultimate protection. Unfortunately, not all oversized and heavy equipment can fit into a 40-foot shipping container. If you’re eligible to use this transport method, your cargo will be kept safe from inclement weather and all outside hazards.
- Flat Rack Shifting- This is our most secure form of open-air transport. Your cargo is fastened to a metal frame before placing it atop the ship. If bad weather is a concern, your cargo might get wrapped with shrink wrap.
- RoRo Hauling- The most affordable open-air transport method available. Your equipment or vehicle must be able to drive onto and off the relocating vessel using a ramp.
- LoLo Shipping- An open-air service that’s commonly used by those transporting crated equipment or inoperable vehicles overseas.

Relevant Statistics
- Over 5,000 cars are imported to Malawi through shipping each year.
- Approximately 90% of imported cars to Malawi come from Japan.
- The average cost to relocate to Malawi ranges from $1,200 to $2,000.
- More than 80% of the cars hauled to Malawi are used vehicles.
- On average, it takes around 4-6 weeks for a car to be shifted and delivered to Malawi.
General Facts
- Relocating involves transporting a vehicle from one country to Malawi, typically through sea freight.
- It is essential to comply with the customs regulations of both the origin and destination countries when transporting.
- The cost of hauling can vary depending on factors such as the size of the vehicle, the chosen method, and any additional services required.
- Before shipping, obtaining the necessary documentation, including the vehicle's ownership documents, export/import permits, and insurance is essential.
- Working with a reputable international shifter can simplify the process of relocating a car to Malawi and ensure compliance with all necessary requirements.
Other Services
- Overseas Moving Services to Malawi
Related Information & FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship a car to Malawi from the United States?
Yes, you can ship a car to Malawi from the United States using ocean freight services. Vehicles are typically exported from major U.S. ports and shipped by container or roll-on roll-off service to Southern African ports, then transported inland to Malawi. Transit time usually ranges from 30–45 days, depending on port schedules, routing, and customs clearance. Most customers use professional international car shipping services to manage export paperwork and logistics.
What documents are required to ship a car to Malawi?
You will need the original vehicle title, a bill of sale, a copy of your passport, and a completed export declaration. Malawi customs may also require import permits and proof of ownership. Vehicles are inspected on arrival to confirm compliance with local import rules. Working with an experienced international transporter helps ensure all documentation is prepared correctly before departure.
How much does it cost to ship a car to Malawi?
Shipping a car to Malawi generally costs between $2,800 and $5,500. Pricing is influenced by vehicle size, shipping method, U.S. departure port, fuel surcharges, and inland transport from the destination port to Malawi. Import duties and local taxes are paid separately upon arrival. For planning purposes, customers often start with an international car shipping rates calculator to estimate baseline costs before final booking.
What shipping methods are available for car shipping to Malawi?
The two main options are container shipping and roll-on roll-off. Containers provide better protection and allow personal items inside the vehicle, while roll-on roll-off is usually cheaper for standard, operable cars. Most shipments to Malawi move by sea to regional ports, then continue by truck. Detailed routing and vessel selection are handled through international car shipping by sea specialists familiar with African trade lanes.
Are there vehicle age or import restrictions under Malawi car import policy?
Yes. Malawi car import policy places limits on vehicle age, emissions condition, and roadworthiness. Older used vehicles may face higher duties or additional inspections, and right-hand-drive vehicles are generally preferred. Import taxes are calculated based on engine size, age, and customs valuation. Understanding these rules in advance helps avoid clearance delays or unexpected charges at the border.
Is enclosed transport available when shipping a car to Malawi?
Enclosed protection is available through containerized shipping, which shields vehicles from weather, salt air, and handling risks. This option is recommended for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles. Although more expensive than roll-on roll-off, container shipping offers added security and flexibility. Customers shipping premium vehicles often choose enclosed auto transport options for maximum protection during overseas transit.

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