Which Congo port do I use?
Republic of Congo: Pointe-Noire. DRC: Matadi (then road to Kinshasa). Choose by registration country, not by geographic preference.
Shipping a Car from the UK to Congo (DRC and Republic of): 2026 Guide
How to ship a car from the UK to the Republic of Congo or DRC in 2026 — Pointe-Noire and Matadi ports, RORO and container options, customs duty and clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need BIVAC inspection?
Yes — pre-shipment BIVAC (Bureau Veritas) inspection is required for most Congolese vehicle imports. The Ship Cars arranges this in the UK.
How long does UK to Congo car shipping take?
Allow 8–12 weeks door-to-door. The Atlantic leg is 4–6 weeks; clearing adds another 1–2 weeks.
Are both Congos sanctioned destinations?
No general sanctions on either Congo. UK and EU asset freezes target specific named individuals only. Standard commercial and personal vehicle imports are unrestricted but every shipment undergoes end-user screening.
Which Congo charges higher import tax?
DRC is marginally higher (25% duty + 16% VAT + 4% IBP + multiple smaller levies, total ~70% of CIF) versus Republic of Congo (30% duty + 18% VAT + 5% surcharges, total ~65%). RoC's Pointe-Noire is faster and more efficient for low-volume importers.
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