How to Ship Trucks and Buses from China to Africa (2026 Guide)
Africa is a major destination for Chinese trucks, buses and commercial vehicles. This guide covers the realistic shipping options for oversized vehicles that do not fit a standard container.
1. Choose the method
Buses and trucks rarely fit a container. Most move as breakbulk (lifted onto the vessel by crane) or, where the vessel has a ramp, as RoRo. High-value units may travel in open-top or flat-rack containers. We recommend based on dimensions and destination port capability.
2. Measure accurately
Provide overall length, width, height and weight, plus whether the unit runs under its own power. Inaccurate dimensions cause re-quoting and delays at the terminal.
3. Loading ports
Most Africa-bound trucks and buses load at Tianjin, Qingdao or Shanghai. Southern suppliers save trucking via Nansha or Shekou. We book from all ten major export ports.
4. Transit time
China to West Africa (Lagos, Douala, Dakar, Abidjan, Tema) is typically 30–45 days. East and Southern Africa vary by service.
5. Destination clearance
Commercial vehicles attract duty, VAT and often age or emission restrictions. We arrange clearance with local partners and quote it separately.
6. How to get a quote
Send us: unit type, make/model, dimensions, weight, running or not, quantity, origin city and destination port. We reply with method, cost breakdown and next sailing.
Ready to ship?
Tell us what is shipping and we will come back with a method, a price and a sailing.
Get a QuoteFrequently asked questions
Can I ship a non-running truck?
Yes, but it must move as breakbulk or on a flat rack — RoRo requires the unit to drive under its own power.
Do you handle oversize cargo insurance?
Yes, we arrange cargo insurance for breakbulk and project cargo on request.
Which African ports handle breakbulk?
Lagos, Douala, Dakar, Abidjan, Tema and Mombasa all handle breakbulk; we confirm equipment availability before booking.