The Generic Flow

  1. Vessel arrives at destination port
  2. Your clearance agent picks up B/L (original or telex-released) and other docs
  3. Agent submits to customs:
    • Bill of Lading
    • Certificate of Origin
    • Commercial Invoice
    • Packing List
    • SGS / BV Inspection Report
    • Local conformity certificate (SASO / SONCAP / PVoC as applicable)
  4. Customs valuates vehicle and assesses duty + VAT + any local taxes
  5. Buyer (or agent on behalf of) pays duty and VAT
  6. Customs releases container or RoRo cargo for collection
  7. Agent arranges trucking from port to your warehouse / showroom

Typical Timing by Market

Market Clearance Time Notes
Dubai Jebel Ali 2–4 days Most efficient port
Saudi Jeddah 4–7 days SASO compliance check
Iraq Basra 7–14 days Slower, additional inspection
Egypt Alexandria 5–10 days EOS certification check
Nigeria Lagos 7–14 days High congestion + SONCAP
Kenya Mombasa 4–8 days PVoC pre-cleared helps
Chile San Antonio 3–6 days Smooth for FTA goods
Mexico Manzanillo 5–10 days Federal Padron registration required

Working with Customs Agents

You can use:

  • Your own appointed agent (Starvia provides docs; you handle clearance)
  • Starvia-recommended agent in destination market (we have vetted partners in 30+ countries — ask for introduction)
  • Starvia turnkey at certain markets where we have own offices (Dubai, Nairobi)

Agent fees typically:

  • $200–$500 per shipment (paperwork only)
  • $500–$1,500 per shipment (paperwork + trucking + delivery)

Duty & VAT Examples (Indicative)

Country Import Duty VAT Notes
UAE 5% 5% On CIF + duty base
Saudi Arabia 5% 15% New cars; used variable
Egypt varies 30–135% 14% Engine-displacement based
Kenya 25–35% 16% + 20% excise on used
Chile 6% 19% China-Chile FTA reduces duty

These are illustrative. Confirm with your local agent before quoting buyers.

Demurrage Risk

Free demurrage is typically 5–10 days. After that:

  • $30–80 / vehicle / day for containerized cargo
  • $20–50 / vehicle / day for RoRo

Start the clearance process the day you know your vessel ETA — don't wait for arrival.