How to Import Used Trucks from China to Africa: Costs, Shipping & Customs

Start with import eligibility in the destination country

Before choosing a truck, confirm whether your country permits import of the intended used vehicle. Rules may address vehicle age, emissions, steering position, inspection, documentation and registration. Requirements vary across African markets and can change. A local customs broker or relevant government authority is the proper source for a current, destination-specific decision.

It is risky to assume that a truck accepted in one African country will qualify in another. Obtain the exact technical requirements before paying for a vehicle.

Choose a truck and verify the supplier

Specify the intended application, preferred make and model, drive configuration, steering position, body size, powertrain and quantity. Ask suppliers for real photos and videos, the vehicle identification details, inspection evidence and a clearly stated condition grade. For remanufactured vehicles, request the scope of engine, transmission, axle and chassis work.

Check the supplier's legal company name and payment details. Your purchase agreement should identify the precise truck or an agreed specification, inspection condition, warranty scope and responsibility for export documents.

Understand FOB, CFR and CIF

FOB generally covers delivery and loading at the agreed export port, while the buyer arranges main carriage. CFR adds the seller's main freight to the named destination port, and CIF additionally requires marine insurance on the agreed terms. These are simplified descriptions; use the full Incoterms 2020 rules and ensure the contract names the port and version.

A CIF quotation is not an all-inclusive landed price. Customs duties, taxes, destination terminal fees, clearance, registration and inland delivery usually require separate planning.

Select the shipping method

Depending on route and vessel availability, heavy trucks may be carried by roll-on/roll-off, breakbulk or suitable container-related arrangements such as flat racks. The best option depends on the truck's dimensions, roadworthiness, loading arrangements, destination port and total charges. Ask the freight forwarder about securing, marine insurance, transit timing and destination handling.

Before shipment, check which paperwork is required, including the commercial invoice, packing information where applicable, transport document and any certificates mandated by the destination.

Control risk through a checklist

A practical import checklist is: confirm local admissibility; verify supplier and truck; agree the exact quotation and inspection standard; approve the shipping plan; obtain document drafts; arrange local clearance; and organize pickup and registration. Keep written records of each approval.

Snail Truck exports used and remanufactured HOWO and SHACMAN commercial vehicles. Buyers can request a specification-based quotation and supporting vehicle information, but should rely on local customs specialists for binding import-duty and registration guidance.