Your total shipping timeline to import a used excavator to Africa from China is 45 to 75 days. This shipping window for used excavators covers three distinct phases. Understanding this shipping timeline helps you prepare for your excavator's arrival. Your excavator and similar excavators will move through:
Phase 1: Pre-Shipping & Export
Phase 2: Ocean Freight
Phase 3: Port Arrival & Import
Phase 1: Pre-Shipping & Export (10-20 Days)
The first phase of the shipping timeline prepares your second-hand excavator for its journey. This stage involves crucial paperwork, inland logistics, and clearing customs in China. Proper planning here prevents significant delays later.
Day 1-3: Booking with a Freight Forwarder
You begin by booking your shipment with a freight forwarder. This partner coordinates the entire logistics process. You must provide accurate information about your excavator, including its dimensions and weight. Your forwarder will need key shipping and customs documentation to start the process.
Commercial Invoice: Details the buyer, seller, and value of the excavator.
Packing List: Describes all parts, especially if the machine is disassembled.
Certificate of Origin: Verifies the equipment was sourced in China.
Day 4-10: Inland Transport to Chinese Port
Next, your used excavator moves from the supplier's yard to the designated port of loading. This domestic journey is typically handled by truck. The supplier arranges for a specialized trailer capable of handling the excavator's size and weight. This step ensures your machine arrives at the port on time, ready for the next stage of its shipping journey.
Day 11-20: China Customs Clearance and Loading
Before your excavator can be loaded onto a ship, it must clear China's export customs. This process has become very strict for used equipment like excavators. Your supplier must provide complete documentation. Customs officials will verify the machine's identity using three key numbers:
Engine Number
Chassis Number
Serial Number
Any mismatch between the physical machine and the paperwork can cause delays. Once customs grants approval, port staff will load your excavator onto the vessel, officially starting its sea transit.
Choosing a Trusted Used Excavator Supplier in China
Your shipping timeline depends heavily on your supplier. Selecting a trusted used excavator supplier in china is the most critical step in this entire process. A good partner prevents delays and ensures you receive a quality machine. You should look for a company that provides well-maintained used excavators and offers personalized customer service.
When you find a potential used excavator for sale china, you must perform detailed checks. A trusted supplier will welcome this scrutiny.
Conduct a physical inspection of the excavator. Look for cracks, dents, or significant rust.
Examine hydraulic hoses and wiring for signs of wear and tear.
Ask for the machine's maintenance history and any past repairs.
Inquire about the availability of spare parts for your specific model.
Pro Tip: A detailed inspection report from an experienced expert gives you a clear understanding of the second-hand excavator's condition and remaining lifespan. This helps you make an informed decision.
Beyond the physical machine, you need to verify the supplier's credentials. Ask for quality assurance (QA) certifications. These documents prove the second-hand equipment meets industry standards. A supplier with an ISO 9001 certification shows a strong commitment to quality control. You can also request third-party inspection reports for an unbiased assessment. A reliable excavator exporter china to kenya, for example, will have these documents ready. This paperwork confirms you are working with a professional who values transparency. Choosing the right supplier in China ensures your used excavator is ready for export and your project. These checks give you confidence in the quality of the excavators you purchase.
Phase 2: The Ocean Freight Shipping Timeline (25-45 Days)
Your used excavator now begins the longest part of its journey: the ocean voyage. This phase of the shipping timeline covers the time your machine spends at sea, moving from the port in China to its destination port in Africa. The total shipping time can vary significantly based on the final destination.
Day 21-65: Sea Transit from China to Africa
The sea transit is the core of the international shipping process. Your second-hand excavator is securely loaded on a vessel, ready for its trip across the ocean. The duration of this voyage depends heavily on the specific route. Major shipping lines connect China to key ports across the African continent.
You can see the average transit times for a second-hand excavator below.
Destination Region/Port | Average Sea Transit Time (from China) |
|---|---|
South Africa (Durban) | 25 to 35 days |
East Africa (Mombasa) | 30 to 50 days |
West Africa (Lagos) | 40 to 50 days |
Note on Potential Delays: Several factors can extend your transit time. Always account for these possibilities in your project plan.
Weather Conditions: Storms or monsoons in the Indian Ocean can disrupt sailing schedules and add 5–10 days to the journey.
Port Congestion: High-traffic seasons, like December in Durban, can create backlogs. This congestion can add another 2–5 days before your excavator is unloaded.
Key Transit Milestones: Port of Loading to Port of Discharge
Your excavator travels along established global trade routes. For example, a major shipping lane runs from Shanghai to Lagos in West Africa. Shipping companies like MSC use large vessels on this route, with Lomé (Togo) serving as a critical transshipment hub. Cargo is often relayed from these hubs to other regional ports.
The most important documentation milestone during this phase is the issuance of the Bill of Lading (BOL).
Your freight forwarder provides you with the BOL after your machine is loaded onto the vessel and clears customs. This document is extremely important. It acts as:
A receipt for your goods.
The contract of carriage between you and the shipping line.
The document of title, which you need to claim your excavators upon arrival.
How to Track Your Used Excavator Shipment
You can monitor your excavator's progress during its sea journey. This gives you peace of mind and helps you prepare for its arrival. To track your shipment, you will need two key pieces of information from your Bill of Lading.
The unique Bill of Lading (BOL) number.
The name of the shipping line transporting your cargo.
You can enter this information on the shipping line's official website. Their tracking system will show you the vessel's current location and its estimated time of arrival (ETA) at your destination port.
RoRo vs. Container Shipping for Used Excavators
You have two primary methods for the international shipping of your machine: Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping. Choosing the right option affects your cost, timeline, and the safety of your second-hand equipment. Each method has distinct advantages for transporting a used excavator.
RoRo shipping is a straightforward process. Your excavator is simply driven onto a specialized vessel at the port of origin and driven off at the destination. This method is designed specifically for wheeled cargo like cars, trucks, and heavy construction equipment.
Container shipping involves placing your machine inside a standard shipping container. For a large piece of equipment like an excavator, this often requires partial disassembly. The container is then sealed and loaded onto a container ship using a crane. This method offers high security for your second-hand asset.
To make the best choice, you should compare these two methods directly. The right decision depends on your priorities, whether they are cost, security, or ease of handling.
The table below breaks down the key differences between RoRo and container shipping for used excavators.
Feature | RoRo Shipping | Container Shipping |
|---|---|---|
Loading Method | Your excavator is driven directly onto the vessel. | Your machine is loaded into a container, often requiring disassembly. |
Cost-Effectiveness | Often cheaper for oversized, wheeled cargo. | Can be more expensive due to disassembly, packing, and crane fees. |
Security | Cargo is secured on deck but is more exposed. | High security. The sealed container protects from theft and weather. |
Damage Risk | Higher risk of minor damage from exposure during transit. | Lower risk of damage because the excavator is enclosed. |
Port Accessibility | Limited to ports with specialized RoRo ramps. | Available at almost all major ports worldwide. |
Handling | Minimal handling reduces the risk of operational damage. | Multiple handling points (loading, sealing, crane lifting) add complexity. |
Ultimately, RoRo is often faster and more cost-effective for a single second-hand excavator. It avoids the labor costs of disassembly and reassembly. However, if your top priority is maximum protection from the elements and potential theft, container shipping provides a secure, sealed environment for your investment. You should discuss both options with your freight forwarder to see which best fits your budget and risk tolerance for your excavators.
Phase 3: Port Arrival & Import in Africa (10-20 Days)
Your excavator has completed its ocean voyage and arrived in Africa. This final phase involves navigating port procedures and customs clearance before you can take possession of your machine. Careful coordination during this stage ensures a smooth handover.
Day 66-68: Unloading and Port Handling
The vessel carrying your excavator arrives at the destination port. Port authorities will guide the ship to its berth. Unloading begins shortly after. If you chose RoRo shipping, port workers will drive your machine off the vessel and move it to a designated secure area. For container shipping, a crane will lift the container from the ship and place it in the container yard. You or your agent will then arrange for the container to be moved to a warehouse for unpacking.
Important Note: Your freight forwarder or a local customs agent will manage these initial steps. They will notify you once the machine is successfully offloaded and ready for the next stage: customs inspection.
Day 69-75: Navigating Africa Customs Clearance
This is the most complex part of the import process. You must present the correct documentation to the local customs authority. Your customs broker will submit the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Packing List on your behalf. Many countries also require a pre-shipment inspection certificate to verify the equipment's quality and safety.
A Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is a common requirement. You must obtain this before the machine leaves China. Many nations in Africa mandate this certificate for customs clearance.
Kenya (KEBS): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Nigeria (SON): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Tanzania (TBS): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Uganda (UNBS): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Ghana (Easy Pass): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Egypt (GOEIC): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Morocco (MCI): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Cameroon (ANOR): Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Ivory Coast: Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Next, you must address the local import duties and regulations. These taxes can significantly increase the final cost of your second-hand excavator. The rates vary widely by country.
Country | Import Duty (%) | VAT (%) | Extra Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
Nigeria | 5-20% | 7.5% | ECOWAS Levy (0.5%) |
South Africa | 0-20% | 15% | Ad Valorem Tax |
Kenya | 10-25% | 16% | Railway Development Levy (2%) |
These taxes can greatly raise the cost of an excavator. For example, a 20% duty on a $50,000 excavator adds $10,000. Additional VAT and other fees further increase the total. You should consult a customs broker to find the exact costs. This ensures you follow all local rules. Their expertise is invaluable for this process.
Final Release and Inland Collection
Once you have paid all duties and taxes, customs will issue a release order. This official documentation permits the port to hand over your equipment. You can now arrange for the final leg of the journey. You will need to hire a local trucking company to transport the used excavator from the port to your job site. With the right planning, your excavators will soon be ready to work on your project.
Common Delays When You Import a Used Excavator to Africa
Even with perfect planning, you can face delays. Understanding these common issues helps you prepare for them. When you import a used excavator to africa, problems often arise from documentation errors, customs inspections, and port congestion. Knowing these risks is the first step to avoiding them.
1. Documentation and Customs Issues
Incorrect paperwork is the most frequent cause of delays. Customs authorities in Africa are very strict, especially with second-hand equipment. Your shipment will be stopped if your documents do not match the physical excavator.
Key Takeaway: Double-check every document before your shipment leaves China. A small error on paper can cause weeks of delay at the port.
Common documentation mistakes include:
Missing or incorrect commercial invoices and packing lists.
Errors in the Bill of Lading.
Using the wrong HS code for your used excavator.
Discrepancies in the machine's valuation.
If customs officials find a valuation that seems too low, they will start an investigation. This leads to increased scrutiny and potential fines. In serious cases, they can even seize your equipment. You must ensure the declared value is accurate to avoid these problems.
2. Port Congestion and Storage Fees
Major ports can become very crowded. This congestion creates a backlog of ships waiting to unload. Your excavator could sit on a vessel for days or weeks, waiting for a berth. This not only delays your project but also costs you money.
When your machine is finally unloaded but cannot be cleared quickly, it will incur storage fees. These are called demurrage and detention charges. Ports give you a few free days, but fees add up quickly after that.
The financial impact of these delays is significant. Congestion increases costs for everyone in the supply chain.
Financial Impact of Port Delays | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
Average Cargo Value per Container | |
Estimated Interest Cost per Month | $106 per container |
Additional Fuel & Emissions Cost |
These extra costs are often passed on to you, the importer. As one expert notes, the supply chain crisis is complex. Better cargo management and visibility are needed to reduce these bottlenecks. This is why tracking your shipment and working with an experienced agent are so important for your excavators.
Your total shipping timeline to import used excavators from China to Africa is 45 to 75 days. This breaks down into three key phases: Pre-Shipping (10-20 days), Ocean Freight (25-45 days), and Post-Arrival (10-20 days).
Understanding these stages helps you plan your project and manage expectations. Proactive planning is your best defense against delays when importing your excavator. This knowledge allows you to confidently manage the shipping process for your used excavators, ensuring your excavators and excavator arrive ready for work.
FAQ
What is the most important shipping document?
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is your most critical document. You need this paper to prove ownership and claim your excavator at the destination port. Keep it safe, as you cannot receive your machine without it.
Can I ship my excavator to any port in Africa?
No, not all ports can handle every type of shipment. RoRo shipping requires ports with special ramps. Container shipping offers more flexibility. You should confirm your destination port's capabilities with your freight forwarder before booking.
How do I import a second-hand excavator to Nigeria?
You must follow a specific process for how to import second hand excavator to nigeria. This involves getting a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) and paying duties. This step-by-step guide to importing helps you navigate local rules.
What is the biggest cause of delays for second-hand excavators?
Incorrect paperwork is the top reason for delays. Customs will hold your used excavator if documents do not match the machine. You must double-check every detail to avoid problems when your excavators arrive.
