Learn the real cost of shipping a car from Canada to Ghana, what affects pricing, and how to ship your vehicle safely with experts.
From Canadian Roads to Ghanaian Ports
Shipping a vehicle across the Atlantic is a complex process — and understanding the cost of shipping a car from Canada to Ghana is the first step toward a stress-free experience. Whether you are an individual relocating, a buyer importing a car, or a business managing exports, knowing the logistics behind car shipping from Canada to Ghana helps you plan better, save costs, and avoid common mistakes.
Canada’s auto export routes to West Africa are well-established. Most shipments depart from Montreal, Halifax, or Toronto terminals and arrive at Tema or Takoradi ports in Ghana. However, due to Canada’s limited Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) availability, container shipping remains the most reliable and secure option for this route — offering protection from weather, theft, and port delays.
At Metropolitan Logistics, we specialize in overseas car transport, managing the entire process from pick-up to final delivery in Ghana.
Average Cost of Shipping a Car from Canada to Ghana
| Service Type | Average Cost (USD) | Transit Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Container (1 Car) | $2,000 – $3,200 | 35 – 50 days | Private container for one vehicle, secure and weather-protected. |
| 40ft Shared Container (2 Cars) | $1,700 – $2,500 per car | 35 – 50 days | Cost-effective shared option with similar safety benefits. |
| Air Freight (Premium Option) | $7,000 – $12,000+ | 5 – 10 days | For time-sensitive or luxury vehicles. |
⚠️ Ro-Ro shipping from Canada is limited and only available from select ports; container shipping remains the preferred method for reliability and insurance coverage.
What Determines the Final Cost
Several factors shape the total cost of shipping a car from Canada to Ghana:
Vehicle Characteristics
- Size and weight: SUVs, vans, and trucks cost more due to higher volume and weight.
- Condition: Non-operational vehicles require forklift handling and special loading equipment.
Shipping Method
- Container shipping: Provides sealed, secure protection against damage and theft.
- Ro-Ro: Lower cost but limited availability; not recommended for high-value vehicles.
Origin and Destination
- Major Canadian ports (Halifax, Montreal) typically offer better pricing and faster schedules.
- Destination ports in Ghana (Tema, Takoradi) determine handling fees and customs timing.
Documentation & Fees
- Export paperwork (title, bill of sale, customs forms)
- Marine insurance (1.5–2.5% of declared vehicle value)
- Ghana import duties and port handling charges
Seasonality and Market Conditions
Ocean freight rates fluctuate with global demand, fuel costs, and container availability. Planning early helps lock in better pricing.
Step-by-Step Shipping Process
Step 1 – Quotation & Consultation
A professional logistics partner evaluates your route, car model, and service preferences. Metropolitan Logistics provides accurate cost breakdowns and transparent timelines.
Step 2 – Pick-Up and Inland Transport
Your car is collected anywhere in Canada and moved to the nearest loading terminal. Tracking and updates are available throughout.
Step 3 – Export Documentation
All export paperwork is prepared and submitted to Canadian customs. Our experts handle this process on your behalf.
Step 4 – Container Loading
The vehicle is securely loaded inside a 20ft or 40ft sealed container. Photos and inspection reports confirm the vehicle’s condition before departure.
Step 5 – Ocean Transit
The container is shipped via secure ocean freight to Ghana. Typical transit time: 35–50 days.
Step 6 – Arrival & Customs Clearance in Ghana
Upon arrival at Tema or Takoradi, Metropolitan’s Ghana-based partners assist with:
- Port clearance
- Import duties and registration
- Optional inland delivery to your city
Step 7 – Final Delivery
After customs release, your vehicle is delivered to your chosen address or collected from the terminal.
Container Shipping Advantages
| Benefit | Description |
| Full Protection | Shielded from ocean salt, weather, and theft. |
| Suitable for Any Vehicle Type | Sedans, SUVs, classics, and non-running cars. |
| Flexible Loading | Ability to ship personal effects with the car. |
| Predictable Scheduling | Containers depart on fixed schedules, avoiding Ro-Ro delays. |
| Preferred by Insurers | Easier to insure due to lower damage risk. |
Metropolitan Logistics’ container solutions include vehicle inspection reports, marine insurance, and customs support, ensuring complete peace of mind from start to finish.
Estimated Budget Breakdown
| Cost Component | Average Range (USD) | Description |
| Canada inland transport | $200 – $600 | From pickup location to port terminal |
| Container shipping | $1,700 – $3,200 | 20ft or shared 40ft container |
| Documentation & export | $100 – $250 | Customs paperwork and admin fees |
| Marine insurance | 1.5–2.5% of car value | Optional but recommended |
| Ghana import duties & handling | Varies | Calculated by customs based on car value |
💰 Example: Shipping a mid-size sedan from Toronto to Tema in a 20ft container may cost around $2,600–$3,000 total, excluding Ghana import duties.
Common Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I ship my car with personal belongings inside?
Yes, container shipping allows limited personal effects, provided they are declared and securely packed. Ro-Ro does not permit this.
2. How long does it take to ship a car from Canada to Ghana?
Transit time ranges from 35 to 50 days, depending on port schedules and customs clearance.
3. Which port is used in Ghana?
Most vehicles arrive at Tema Port, with Takoradi serving as an alternative for certain routes.
4. Do I need to clean my car before export?
Yes, all vehicles must be cleaned and inspected before export to comply with customs and biosecurity rules.
5. Can I track my shipment?
Absolutely. Metropolitan Logistics provides real-time shipment tracking and updates during the journey.
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
- Canada-wide pickup — from any province directly to port.
- Dedicated export team — documentation, insurance, and customs handled in-house.
- Container specialists — our focus on containerized transport ensures safety and flexibility.
- Ghana clearance support — local partners streamline port release and delivery.
- Transparent pricing — no hidden charges or surprise fees.
With years of experience in international car shipping, our team ensures your vehicle reaches Ghana safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
Start Your Journey with Confidence
Shipping a car overseas requires careful planning, but with the right partner, it can be smooth and predictable. The cost of shipping a car from Canada to Ghana depends on vehicle type, method, and service level — yet the right logistics partner can optimize all three.
If you’re ready to begin your shipment, contact the experts at Metropolitan Logistics for a detailed quote and full guidance on export paperwork, container loading, and Ghanaian customs clearance.
Get your personalized quote today: 👉 Request a Shipping Quote
📞 Call: +1 (365) 829 5000
📧 Email: autotransport@metropolitanlogistics.ca
