Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Planning, Trip > Trip Transport
Trip Transport Shipping the vehicle and yourself.
Photo by Daniel Rintz, Himba children, Namibia

The only impossible journey
is the one
you never begin

Photo by Daniel Rintz,
Himba children, Namibia



Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 3 Nov 2011
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Garstang, Lancashire, UK
Posts: 82
Shipping to South Africa

I am planning a trip to South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana next year. Still at early stages but started enquiries with some shipping agents to transport 2 bikes to South Africa:

*JamesCargo - *flying bikes out, they crate and handle most of it -£1540 per bike each way. Feck!!!! *I have asked how to make it cheaper. A LOT cheaper.*

RORO boat from Southampton : £1150 per bike one way. Still Feck!!!

Any tips on how to make this cheaper? *Is it South Africa? *Anyone emigrating that way in May with room for two bikes in their container? *
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 4 Nov 2011
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Helsinki
Posts: 1,731
Try to get quotes on regular seafreight (no Ro-Ro), and it´s probably good to send both bikes as 1 shipment. On seafreight, you´ll probably have to crate the bikes (and also consider the possibility to make 1 larger box, that´ll contain both bikes - not certain to bring the costs down, but worth asking). You should be able to have multiple crates in 1 shipment, too.

I sent a DL650 from Sydney to Helsinki by sea in a Suzuki factory crate in April 2008, and that ended up costing about 700 euros total. Still think it was a fair price (airfreight was estimated 2,5 - 3 times as expensive). But it took 2 months! In your case, it might take something between 3-5 weeks.

When sending by sea, beware of the possible costs at the receiving end. Of that 700 euros, I had to pay some 180 euros in Helsinki just to pick up the bike (so I paid the freight company in Sydney only a bit more than 500). It had not overstayed at the warehouse, so I was a little bitter about that money. But still the total price was quite good I think.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 4 Nov 2011
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Britannia Movers... British firm based in Croydon..

I shipped from Capetown to U.K and it cost £650 TOTAL...

It was in a private container so NO disassembly or drainage required.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 4 Nov 2011
Vaufi's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Munich, the beer capital
Posts: 1,046
Try to get a quote in a harbour at the docks directly. Freight companies usually have a bit of empty space in their containers, which they are glad to fill up for a fairly cheap price. In this cas you'll have to do all the paperwork yourself plus crating the bikes.

Normally a "freight forwarder" does all this work for you, but charges a much higher price - like the prices you quoted.

Regarding southern Africa:
Don't forget to organise a carnet!
A wealth of information can be found here: Wild Dog Adventure Riding - Index Via the Wilddog Bike forum you'll find members all over S.A. and NAM.
BMW Pretoria is another meeting point for bikers, regardless of the make of their bike.

Have fun
Hans
__________________
Only when we pause to wonder
do we go beyond the limits of our little lives.
(Rod McKuen)
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 4 Nov 2011
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Quote:
Originally Posted by Vaufi View Post
Try to get a quote in a harbour at the docks directly. Freight companies usually have a bit of empty space in their containers, which they are glad to fill up for a fairly cheap price. In this cas you'll have to do all the paperwork yourself plus crating the bikes.

Normally a "freight forwarder" does all this work for you, but charges a much higher price - like the prices you quoted.

Regarding southern Africa:
Don't forget to organise a carnet!
A wealth of information can be found here: Wild Dog Adventure Riding - Index Via the Wilddog Bike forum you'll find members all over S.A. and NAM.
BMW Pretoria is another meeting point for bikers, regardless of the make of their bike.

Have fun
Hans
You don't need a carnet for the countries he is going to.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 4 Nov 2011
Vaufi's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Munich, the beer capital
Posts: 1,046
Apparently yes. I checked the SARS (SA Revenue Services) site. It says:


Motor vehicles imported on a temporary basis

Motor vehicles used in South Africa by tourists may be imported under rebate of duty and exempt from VAT for a period of three months; this may be extended to six months (however, it may be subject to a provisional payment being made to Customs to secure the VAT on importation either in part or in full). After a period of six months the motor vehicles must be re-exported.


But this site also says:

DUTY-FREE TEMPORARY IMPORTATION
South Africa acceded to the ATA convention in 1975. Foreign visitors
(companies and individuals) can therefore approach their local Chambers
of Commerce for advice regarding the issuing of an ATA Carnet for the
temporary importation of certain goods in a simplified method.

Temporary importation of vehicles and other articles (for tourists
and travellers resident in foreign countries)
Please ensure that you have the relevant clearance document for the
vehicle i.e. Carnets, permits, etc., if applicable.

I suppose the carnet makes things much easier, but they do cost a fortune. Something like 150 €.
__________________
Only when we pause to wonder
do we go beyond the limits of our little lives.
(Rod McKuen)
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 4 Nov 2011
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Quote:
Originally Posted by Vaufi View Post
Apparently yes. I checked the SARS (SA Revenue Services) site. It says:


Motor vehicles imported on a temporary basis

Motor vehicles used in South Africa by tourists may be imported under rebate of duty and exempt from VAT for a period of three months; this may be extended to six months (however, it may be subject to a provisional payment being made to Customs to secure the VAT on importation either in part or in full). After a period of six months the motor vehicles must be re-exported.


But this site also says:

DUTY-FREE TEMPORARY IMPORTATION
South Africa acceded to the ATA convention in 1975. Foreign visitors
(companies and individuals) can therefore approach their local Chambers
of Commerce for advice regarding the issuing of an ATA Carnet for the
temporary importation of certain goods in a simplified method.

Temporary importation of vehicles and other articles (for tourists
and travellers resident in foreign countries)
Please ensure that you have the relevant clearance document for the
vehicle i.e. Carnets, permits, etc., if applicable.

I suppose the carnet makes things much easier, but they do cost a fortune. Something like 150 €.
I was there 6 months ago and there were plenty of people without carnets in those countries. You get your import at the borders. In fact, I'm pretty sure you only need one import permit as they are in a kind of customs agreement in Southern African countries.

I had a carnet as I came all the way through from Europe but I really wouldn't bother if I was just in the South. In fact, if it wasn't for Egypt and Sudan, you wouldn't need a carnet for Africa at all.

Does it make it easier !!! Possibly.....
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 5 Nov 2011
Vaufi's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Munich, the beer capital
Posts: 1,046
The five southern countries in fact do have a tax and customs agreement, I was told. That's why it's so easy to travel around the south from one country to the other.

In 2006 the SA embassy in Munich told me that a carnet was definitely required for my bike. And the first thing the customs offiicer asked for at the airport was the carnet. I supposed coming overland to SA, the border control isn't as fussy as at the ports.
__________________
Only when we pause to wonder
do we go beyond the limits of our little lives.
(Rod McKuen)
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 5 Nov 2011
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Quote:
Originally Posted by Vaufi View Post
The five southern countries in fact do have a tax and customs agreement, I was told. That's why it's so easy to travel around the south from one country to the other.

In 2006 the SA embassy in Munich told me that a carnet was definitely required for my bike. And the first thing the customs offiicer asked for at the airport was the carnet. I supposed coming overland to SA, the border control isn't as fussy as at the ports.
The law at the port is the same at the border. They will ask for a carnet because that is what they're used to.

It really isn't required.

A carnet is simpler once you're there but seems a big waste of time and money.
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 16 Feb 2013
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Feb 2013
Posts: 24
TIP to South Africa on a Uk reg. bike

Hi all...can it be confirmed that i can cross from the Namibia SA without a CDP?

I am a Brit on a Uk reg bike and will export the bike a week or two after i finish in SA.

Im going from London to Johannesburg for charity,solo and un supported.

Please dont tell me i HAVE to have a Carnet,as i simply cant afford it.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 17 Feb 2013
Vaufi's Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Munich, the beer capital
Posts: 1,046
It probably boils down to what you're prepared to risk. The customs regulations of S.A. clearly state that a CDP is required, but overlanders have entered the country without this document - like Ted did it.

You could check the site of the SARS (revenue & taxes):
South African Revenue Service - Search Detail and search for "temporary imports"

Good luck!
__________________
Only when we pause to wonder
do we go beyond the limits of our little lives.
(Rod McKuen)
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 17 Feb 2013
*Touring Ted*'s Avatar
Contributing Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Wirral, England.
Posts: 5,654
Re: Shipping to South Africa

I had a carnet and entered through Mozambique. You don't need a Carnet to enter south Africa as far as I know...
__________________
Did some trips.
Rode some bikes.
Fix them for a living.
Can't say anymore.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 17 Feb 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Inverness, Scotland
Posts: 249
I've been looking at this while planning my next trip (next year, I hope, starting from Capetown), and one thing that comes up a lot is the erratic schedules of ships. It wouldn't take long for the difference in seafreight to be eatun up by the ship arriving days or even weeks later than you do.

I plan to fly my bike down there and will console myself with the thought that after three or four weeks I'll have broken even compared to renting a big GS.
__________________
Our FB page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/Africa2Up/
Reply With Quote
  #14  
Old 20 Feb 2013
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: Stockton-on-Tees England
Posts: 139
Have regularly shipped into Walvis Bay in Namibia at the start of touring trips to southern African countries and have always been asked for carnet both on leaving UK, arriving in Walvis Bay and in both ports on the return journey. Cross border between SADC members no carnet once it has been initially stamped on arrival but can be checked by customs. Countries where this is applicable are listed on the carnet.

The only time we have had delays in ship arriving was in 2010 and this was due to problems with the docking by the port authorities and not the shipping company. We always use MACS Shipping.

Margaret
Reply With Quote
  #15  
Old 23 Sep 2013
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Haarlem, Netherlands
Posts: 26
Carnet South Africa

Anyone knows what's the last word on needing a carnet for a bike in South Africa? Reports on this Hubb vary and the site of the SA customs isn't very clear to me. Seems like the rules have loosened since 2012.

My bike's on the way to Capetown by ship, my shipping agent insists I don't need one but the company who handles the customs clearance insists I do need one. Any recent experiences?

Cheers,
Rob
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
hi all im driving uk to south africa wanna join gea_man26 Travellers Seeking Travellers 2 4 Nov 2011 14:11
Paperwork? Africa trip, down the west coast and up the east Tgon65 Trip Paperwork 7 4 Nov 2011 12:08
shipping to Africa straggler 4 wheel Overland Travel 1 4 Nov 2011 00:28
XT 500 Acerbis tank wanted , South Africa tikkeltokkel TRAVEL Equipment for Sale / Wanted 2 2 Nov 2011 23:24
uk to south africa 2013 gea_man26 Travellers Seeking Travellers 0 1 Nov 2011 23:29

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 02:17.