Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-07-01 Origin: Site
Importing a used excavator to Africa can be a smart investment for contractors, construction companies, and mining operators looking to expand their operations without breaking the bank. However, the process involves more than just picking a machine and paying for it. In this guide, we'll walk you through every key step to import a used excavator to Africa, especially from reliable exporters in China.
For many businesses across Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, and Tanzania, buying a second-hand excavator offers high value for money. Here are the key benefits:
Cost-Effective: Save up to 50% compared to a new machine
Reliable Brands: Access to trusted names like Caterpillar (CAT), Komatsu, Hitachi, and Kobelco
Fast Availability: Avoid long production cycles or waiting lists for new equipment
Before making a purchase, consider:
Job type (earthmoving, mining, construction)
Tonnage/class (e.g. 20-ton CAT 320D)
Terrain and fuel availability
Working hours: Machines with lower working hours (under 5,000 hours) typically have less wear and tear, but may cost more. Higher-hour machines (over 8,000) can still be reliable if well-maintained, but buyers should carefully assess hydraulic performance and maintenance history.
Your budget range
Working with a professional exporter is critical. Look for a supplier who:
Provides real machine photos and videos
Offers detailed inspection reports
Has export experience to Africa
Can handle shipping and customs documentation
Pro Tip: Search for terms like "used excavator for sale China" or "second hand CAT excavator exporter" to find reliable suppliers.
Each African country has its own import policy. For example, Nigeria generally allows the import of used construction equipment under 15 years old and charges approximately 10% import duty plus 7.5% VAT. Kenya, on the other hand, typically limits used machinery imports to those under 8 years old and imposes duties ranging from 10%–25% depending on classification, plus additional import declaration fees. Regulations can vary by year and port, so it's essential to verify the latest requirements through your local clearing agent or freight forwarder.. Common steps include:
Verifying machine age limits (some countries restrict machines over 10 years old)
Paying import duties and VAT
Complying with local standards (e.g. Bureau Veritas in Nigeria)
Consult your local clearing agent for precise duties and port charges.
Most used excavators are shipped via Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) or container shipping:
Ro-Ro is faster for complete machines
Container shipping is safer for smaller or dismantled units
Key African ports that handle heavy machinery include:
Lagos Port (Nigeria)
Mombasa Port (Kenya)
Tema Port (Ghana)
Durban Port (South Africa)
Once the machine arrives:
Hire a technician to check it on-site
Confirm it matches the inspection report
Start basic servicing before field operation
Always ask for a machine working video before payment
Use a Letter of Credit (L/C) or Trade Assurance for secure payment
Choose brands with strong spare parts support in Africa (e.g. CAT and Komatsu)
To improve your visibility, create content that includes:
"used CAT 320D excavator for Africa"
"how to import second hand excavator to Nigeria"
"reliable excavator exporter China to Kenya"
"second hand construction machines Ghana"
These SEO keywords align with how real buyers search.
Importing a used excavator to Africa can be a game-changer for your construction or mining business—if done right. With the right supplier, proper documentation, and a clear understanding of logistics, you can save money and get a reliable machine fast.
Looking for trusted used machines from China? Contact HY Machinery, your reliable exporter of CAT, Komatsu, Hitachi, and Kobelco machines – ready to ship to any African port.