Can I ship a right hand drive car from the UK to Lesotho?
Yes. Lesotho 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 Lesotho
Ship your car from the UK to Lesotho via RORO or shared container. Lesotho is a landlocked Southern African kingdom enclosed entirely by South Africa, with steady demand for UK 4x4s, Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser pickups, and luxury saloons for Maseru, Leribe, and Mafeteng. All UK vehicle imports clear through Durban (South Africa) and transit by bonded road through the SACU customs union to Maseru Bridge or Caledonspoort border posts. Lesotho 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 door to door delivery to Maseru. Typical transit: 28–35 days from UK ports to Durban, plus 4–6 days bonded road transit through South Africa to Maseru Bridge or Caledonspoort border. Total door to door typically 35–45 days from UK collection.. Main discharge port: Via Durban (South Africa).
- Transit time
- 28–35 days from UK ports to Durban, plus 4–6 days bonded road transit through South Africa to Maseru Bridge or Caledonspoort border. Total door to door typically 35–45 days from UK collection.
- Main port
- Via Durban (South Africa)
- Shipping methods
- RORO and container shipping via Durban (South Africa) with bonded SACU road transit to Maseru. RORO suits single running vehicles; shared and dedicated container options are used for high value 4x4s,
- Import rules
- Lesotho is a member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), so import duty follows the common external tariff: 25 percent on non SACU origin passenger cars and 20 percent on commercial vehicles. VAT is 15 percent on the duty inclusive value. Ad valorem excise duty applies on luxury vehicles at
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from the UK to Lesotho?
In 2026, RORO shipping from Southampton to Durban starts at £1,400 and container shipping from £1,900 in a shared 40ft, with bonded road transit to Maseru from £700. Door to door typically £2,100 to £3,500 depending on method.
Which port serves Lesotho for UK car imports?
Durban in South Africa handles all UK car shipments destined for Lesotho. Vehicles transit under SACU bond by road to Maseru Bridge or Caledonspoort border posts for clearance with the Lesotho Revenue Authority.
Is there an age limit on imported cars in Lesotho?
Lesotho does not impose a strict age limit, but older vehicles attract higher duties and must pass a Lesotho Traffic Department roadworthiness inspection before registration. Most importers stay under 10 to 15 years for cost efficiency.
Does the returning resident rebate apply in Lesotho?
Yes. Lesotho 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 LRA approval.
What documents are required for Lesotho customs clearance?
You need the V5C, bill of sale, passport or Lesotho ID, police clearance from the country of origin, commercial invoice, bill of lading, HMRC C88, and a SAD500 customs declaration filed with the Lesotho Revenue Authority.
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