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    Shipping Cars to Port of Karachi (Karachi Port), Karachi

    Pakistan · UN/LOCODE PKKHI

    Karachi Port is Pakistan's largest and busiest seaport, handling the majority of the country's used and new vehicle imports through the Karachi Port Trust (KPT). Vehicles from the UK typically arrive via container due to Pakistan's strict used-car import policy under the Personal Baggage, Gift and Transfer of Residence schemes.. See our shipping to Pakistan guide or request a quote.

    Services

    Container (FCL & shared), Breakbulk

    Transit Time

    20–28 days from Southampton via the Suez Canal, depending on transhipment routing

    UK Ports

    Southampton, Tilbury

    Region

    Asia

    Overview

    Karachi Port is Pakistan's largest and busiest seaport, handling the majority of the country's used and new vehicle imports through the Karachi Port Trust (KPT). Vehicles from the UK typically arrive via container due to Pakistan's strict used-car import policy under the Personal Baggage, Gift and Transfer of Residence schemes.

    Terminal & Vessel Facilities

    Vehicle cargo is handled through KPT's East Wharf terminals and the adjoining Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT), with bonded warehousing available for vehicles awaiting customs clearance and duty assessment under Pakistan's import valuation rules.

    Typical Transit Time from the UK

    20–28 days from Southampton via the Suez Canal, depending on transhipment routing.

    UK departure ports served: Southampton, Tilbury.

    Customs & Clearance Notes

    Pakistan restricts private used-vehicle imports mainly to overseas Pakistanis under the Transfer of Residence, Gift, or Personal Baggage schemes administered by Pakistan Customs, each with specific eligibility periods of prior overseas residence. Duty and taxes on used vehicles are calculated on a fixed depreciation schedule based on engine capacity and can be substantial, so we advise confirming your scheme eligibility with us before booking.

    Collection & Storage

    Bonded storage at Karachi is available for vehicles awaiting duty clearance, though free time is limited to around 7–10 days before demurrage accrues. Given the documentation-heavy import schemes, we strongly recommend engaging a Karachi-based clearing agent before the vessel departs the UK.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can anyone import a used car to Pakistan through Karachi?
    No, private used-vehicle imports are generally restricted to overseas Pakistanis using the Transfer of Residence, Gift, or Personal Baggage schemes, each requiring proof of a minimum period of residence abroad — we can check your eligibility before booking.
    How is duty calculated on vehicles imported to Karachi?
    Pakistan Customs applies a fixed depreciation-based duty and tax schedule tied to the vehicle's engine capacity and age, rather than a simple percentage of purchase price, so costs vary significantly by vehicle.
    Why is container shipping preferred over RORO for Pakistan?
    Given the documentation-intensive import schemes and bonded clearance process, containerised shipments give better protection and security while the vehicle awaits scheme verification and duty assessment.
    How long does customs clearance take at Karachi Port?
    With complete scheme documentation and duty funds ready, clearance typically takes 10–15 working days, though scheme verification can extend this for first-time importers.

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