Africa Import & Export

1UK-Africa Import & Export Logistics Navigating Africa Shipping

Trusted UK–Africa shipping by air, sea and road

Shipping goods between the UK and Africa requires specialised local knowledge, dependable carrier options, and strict compliance with regulations. Freight Connect Services offers comprehensive UK–Africa import and export logistics solutions, including international shipping services that cover air freight, sea freight—including Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), and Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo)—as well as multimodal road and inland delivery. Our extensive international shipping network serves a wide range of countries across Africa, including major African markets and regional destinations. Our services also include UK customs clearance, detailed documentation management, and international shipment tracking support. Whether you need to ship pallets, full containers, or small parcels, we simplify Africa shipping logistics by providing transparent, timely, and reliable deliveries. Customers benefit from our streamlined process, making the shipping experience more convenient and cost-effective. We are dedicated to making shipping to Africa straightforward and accessible for all customers.

Customers choose Freight Connect Services because we act as a single partner to coordinate route planning, customs clearance, import duty and VAT handling, UPS delivery, and tracking options. Our team ensures you stay informed throughout the entire shipping process until proof of delivery is confirmed. This seamless approach makes shipping to Africa easier and efficient.

What we move between the UK and Africa

We cater to a wide range of clients including manufacturers, wholesalers, eCommerce brands, NGOs, and individuals who ship to and from major African markets such as Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco, Tanzania, and more. Our expertise in handling cargo to Africa ensures reliable, cost-effective, and efficient delivery for all types of shipments.

Our cargo expertise spans several categories

General cargo and retail

We handle boxed goods, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and consumer electronics, subject to destination-specific restrictions.

Industrial and project freight

This includes machinery, spare parts, maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) supplies, and oil & gas equipment, often requiring market-specific permits.

Automotive and RoRo shipping

We specialise in transporting cars, 4x4s, vans, heavy machinery, trucks, and buses to West and Southern Africa, leveraging our RoRo and container services. We can efficiently ship a fleet of vehicles for both individuals and businesses.

eCommerce and parcels

For individuals and businesses seeking to send parcels, luggage, or excess baggage to Africa from the UK, we offer courier services with international UPS tracking to ensure visibility and convenience.

Temperature-controlled and high-value shipments

On request, we provide specialist handling and security protocols tailored to sensitive or valuable items, with a focus on tracking each package and item for maximum safety.

It’s important to note that some cargo categories may require permits, testing, or destination approvals. Shipping requirements may include providing accurate addresses for delivery. Our team will advise you on prohibited or restricted items for each African market to ensure compliance and smooth delivery.

Service options — air, sea and inland

Air freight Africa ↔ UK (fastest)

For time-sensitive shipments, air cargo is the preferred choice, offering a fast, reliable method for shipping goods. We offer airport-to-airport and door-to-door air freight options, consolidating cargo or providing direct flights to major African hubs such as Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Cairo. Our services include export screening, dangerous goods (DG) handling when applicable, and packaging that meets airline compliance standards. In addition to general cargo, we can ship excess baggage and luggage for travellers and individuals who need to send unaccompanied luggage or extra items to West Africa and beyond. Typical transit times range from 2 to 6 days airport-to-airport, depending on the specific route and flight availability. Air freight options provide a fast, reliable way to send cargo or personal belongings between the UK and Africa.

Sea freight Africa ↔ UK (most economical)

Sea freight remains the most cost-effective method for shipping large volumes or heavy cargo. We offer sea freight services from major UK cities, including London, to Africa. Full Container Load (FCL) options with 20’, 40’, and High Cube (HC) containers are available for full shipments, as well as Less than Container Load (LCL) for shared container space to reduce costs. Our Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) service is ideal for vehicles and rolling machinery destined for West and Southern Africa corridors. Weekly sailings are available through key transhipment points and direct services. Sea freight transit times typically range from 15 to 35+ days port-to-port, depending on origin, destination, and shipping schedules.

Road & inland distribution

Beyond air and sea freight, we provide comprehensive inland logistics to complete the shipping process. This includes UK collection and final-mile delivery to warehouses, distribution centres, and Amazon FBA or third-party logistics providers. In Africa, inland trucking services from seaports and airports to customer sites are available in select markets, enabling door delivery. We also offer bonded transfers and optimise free-time to minimise storage costs, ensuring your cargo moves smoothly through the entire delivery chain.

Customs & compliance made clear

Import from Africa to the UK

Navigating customs when importing from Africa to the UK can be complex. Freight Connect Services manages UK customs clearance with EORI validation, HS code classification, and valuation checks to ensure accuracy. We provide guidance on UK import duty and VAT, including options for Postponed VAT Accounting where eligible. Our documentation support covers commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, inspection and fumigation certificates, and licences for controlled goods. Additionally, we screen for sanctions and restrictions to avoid compliance issues that could delay shipments.

UK export to Africa

When exporting from the UK to Africa, we assist with route planning and ensure correct export paperwork is prepared, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. We help you understand destination entry requirements such as pre-shipment inspections and market-specific certifications like SONCAP/COC, along with local import duty and tax expectations. Our team advises on Incoterms®—including EXW, FCA, FOB, CIF, DAP, and DDP—to align costs and risks with your buyer’s preferences. For parcel shipments, we coordinate with Africa Post, local courier service partners, or UPS courier service delivery to provide door-to-door service.

Parcel & courier — including UPS delivery and tracking

Not all shipments require pallets or containers. For documents and small packages, we offer reliable courier solutions to ship to Africa quickly with full visibility. Our door-to-door pickup service covers the entire UK, and we provide international UPS tracking along with other major courier options on request, allowing you to easily track your parcels throughout the delivery process. Electronic customs data submission speeds up clearance, while postage and returns options support eCommerce sellers. We also facilitate Africa Post services for returns or cross-border exchanges, depending on the route. Simply tell us the weight, dimensions, contents, and value of your parcels, and we will recommend the most cost-effective shipping service to meet your needs.

If you have any questions about your parcel shipments, please feel free to contact us. For immediate assistance, you can also reach our customer support team by phone.

Why choose Freight Connect Services for Africa logistics?

Freight Connect Services stands out as a trusted partner for Africa shipping due to several key advantages

End-to-end control

Our accountable team manages the entire process from booking to delivery and proof of delivery (POD).

Africa trade-lane expertise

We understand port congestion, free-time limits, RoRo cut-offs, and inland delivery constraints across the continent, and recognise Africa’s growing integration into the world of global trade.

Transparent pricing

Our quotes clearly cover freight costs, surcharges, customs duties, taxes, and last-mile delivery fees.

Compliance first

We ensure correct HS codes, documentation, and duty/VAT planning to prevent costly delays.

Technology and visibility

Clients receive regular milestone updates and tracking, including UPS tracking for courier shipments.

Scalable capacity

Whether you need to send a single parcel or manage complex project cargo and full container load programmes, we can accommodate your requirements.

Our professional team is dedicated to providing easy, reliable, and cost-effective shipping services that match each client’s specific needs, whether for business or personal shipments.

Typical transit times & costs (guide only)

Understanding transit times and costs helps you plan shipments effectively

Air freight typically takes about 2 to 6 days airport-to-airport, with door-to-door delivery times depending on pickup and final delivery distances.

Sea freight transit ranges from approximately 15 to 35+ days port-to-port, influenced by schedule reliability and peak shipping seasons.

Shipping costs vary based on dimensions, weight, route, service level, surcharges, and applicable duties and taxes at the destination. To get precise estimates, request a tailored quote from us. We provide clear estimated times of arrival (ETAs) and all-inclusive pricing for your specific shipping lane.

How we work (our process)

Our streamlined shipping process ensures smooth operations

Consultation & lane design

We confirm your commodity, Incoterms®, packaging, and select the best route—air, sea, RoRo, or courier.

Quote & compliance check

We provide pricing including duties and taxes guidance, along with a list of required documentation.

Booking & collection

Coordination of UK pickup or supplier collection at the origin.

Export handling & carriage

Cargo consolidation, customs export clearance, and flight or vessel booking.

Import clearance

Customs clearance in the UK or destination African country, with duty and VAT settlement.

Final-mile delivery

Delivery to your site, distribution centre, Amazon FBA, or via UPS courier directly to the door.

Proof of delivery & reporting

We provide POD confirmation and offer key performance indicators (KPI) and cost optimisation suggestions.

FAQs — UK & Africa shipping

How do I calculate import duty from Africa to the UK?

Import duty depends on your product’s HS code, origin, and applicable trade measures. We classify your goods, confirm duty rates, and advise on VAT treatment, including Postponed VAT Accounting if eligible.

Can you arrange DDP to Africa?

Yes, Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) or Delivered at Place (DAP) services can be arranged in select African markets. We will confirm feasibility, local taxes, and responsibilities for customs formalities.

What documents do I need?

Typically, you will require a commercial invoice, packing list, certificates of origin, and any necessary inspection, fumigation certificates, or licences. Certain destinations may also require pre-shipment inspection or compliance certificates.

How quickly can you ship a parcel to Africa from the UK?

Courier options generally deliver parcels within 2 to 7 working days, depending on the service selected. All shipments include international tracking for peace of mind.

Do you ship vehicles to West Africa?

Yes, we ship vehicles via RoRo or container services to West African ports. We provide details on port schedules, cut-offs, and import regulations for your destination.

If you have specific shipping requirements, please contact our team to discuss how we can assist you.

Get a quote

If you’re ready to move cargo between the UK and Africa, contact Freight Connect Services today. Email us at info@freightcservices.com or request a callback. We will provide the best air, sea, or courier shipping options, guidance on duties and taxes, and a clear timeline for delivery tailored to your shipment. Trust us to simplify your Africa shipping needs with professionalism and expertise.