Can I ship a right hand drive car from the UK to Botswana?
Yes. Botswana drives on the left and requires right hand drive vehicles, so UK cars are fully compliant without conversion.
Ship a Car from the UK to Botswana
Ship your car from the UK to Botswana via RORO or shared container. Botswana is a landlocked Southern African market with steady demand for UK 4x4s, double cab pickups, and luxury saloons. Imports flow through Durban or Walvis Bay and onward by road to Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun. Botswana drives on the left, so UK right hand drive vehicles are fully compatible without conversion. The Ship Cars handles RORO and container shipping from Southampton, Felixstowe, and Tilbury, with onward inland transit by road through South Africa or Namibia. Typical transit: 28–35 days from UK ports to Durban, plus 5–7 days bonded road transit to Gaborone. Via Walvis Bay add 4–6 days road transit to Maun or Ghanzi.. Main discharge port: Via Durban (South Africa).
- Transit time
- 28–35 days from UK ports to Durban, plus 5–7 days bonded road transit to Gaborone. Via Walvis Bay add 4–6 days road transit to Maun or Ghanzi.
- Main port
- Via Durban (South Africa)
- Shipping methods
- RORO and container shipping via Durban (South Africa) with bonded road transit to Gaborone, or via Walvis Bay (Namibia) for western Botswana. RORO suits single running vehicles; container is preferred
- Import rules
- Import duty 25 percent for non SACU origin vehicles, with a 5 percent SACU import surcharge. VAT 14 percent on the duty inclusive value. Vehicles must be roadworthy and pass a SABS or BOBS inspection. Right hand drive is required. Returning citizens with at least 12 months abroad may claim rebate it
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Botswana?
In 2026, RORO shipping from Southampton to Durban starts at £1,400 and container shipping from £1,900 in a shared 40ft, with onward bonded road transit to Gaborone from £650. Total door to door typically £2,000 to £3,500 depending on method.
Is there an age limit on imported cars in Botswana?
Botswana does not impose a strict age limit on used car imports, but older vehicles attract higher duties and must pass a SABS or BOBS roadworthiness inspection before registration.
Which port serves Botswana for UK car imports?
Durban in South Africa handles the majority of UK car shipments destined for Botswana, with bonded road transit to Gaborone. Walvis Bay in Namibia is used for western Botswana including Maun and Ghanzi.
Does the returning resident rebate apply in Botswana?
Yes. Botswana citizens who have lived abroad for at least 12 months and owned the vehicle for at least six months may claim rebate item 407.06 to import a used personal vehicle free of duty, subject to BURS approval.
What documents are needed for Botswana customs clearance?
You need the V5C, bill of sale, passport or Omang, commercial invoice, bill of lading, police clearance from the country of origin, HMRC C88, and a SAD500 customs declaration filed with BURS.
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