Sending a Vehicle to Zimbabwe from the UK

Sending a vehicle (car) from the UK to Zimbabwe is possible but expensive and complex. KEY FACTS: IMPORT DUTY is the biggest cost — Zimbabwe charges duty based on the vehicle's age and engine capacity. Duty rates: 40-100%+ of the assessed value. Vehicles older than 10 years face the highest rates and additional restrictions. Example: a car valued at £5,000 could attract £3,000-5,000+ in duty alone. LEFT-HAND DRIVE: Zimbabwe drives on the left (same as UK), so right-hand drive UK cars are compatible. SHIPPING: Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) from UK ports (Southampton, Tilbury) to Durban, then road transport to Zimbabwe. Shipping cost: approximately £1,500-3,000 depending on vehicle size. Transit time: 6-10 weeks. DOCUMENTS NEEDED: Original V5C logbook, purchase receipt, valid insurance for transit, customs declaration, Zimbabwe import permit. REGISTRATION IN ZIMBABWE: The vehicle must be re-registered with ZINARA and pass a Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) roadworthiness test. PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS: (1) Japanese imports are often cheaper and more practical than UK imports due to lower duty on certain categories; (2) Spare parts availability — consider whether parts for the specific model are available in Zimbabwe; (3) The total cost (purchase + shipping + duty + registration) often exceeds the cost of buying a comparable vehicle in Zimbabwe; (4) SUVs and 4x4s are popular and practical for Zimbabwe's road conditions.