What You Need to Know
Ghana has become one of West Africa's most popular destinations for imported vehicles. The country's import duty on used vehicles is 30% of the CIF value, with additional levies including ECOWAS Levy (0.5%), NHIL (2.5%), GETFund Levy (2.5%), and VAT (15% in some cases). The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Customs Division oversee all vehicle imports through Tema and Takoradi ports.
At LuxeAutoImports, we manage the entire import process — from purchasing your vehicle in the USA, shipping via RoRo or container to Tema Port, through to customs clearing and local delivery anywhere in Ghana. Here's what popular vehicles cost to import:
The Import Process: Step by Step
1. Purchase Your Vehicle
Browse our verified inventory or request a specific model. We source from US auctions, dealerships, and private sellers across all 50 states.
2. Vehicle Inspection & Documentation
Full mechanical and cosmetic inspection with detailed photo report. We prepare the US title, bill of sale, and export documentation.
3. Ocean Shipping (3-5 weeks)
We ship via RoRo from US East Coast ports to Tema Port. Container shipping available for multiple vehicles or high-value units. Transit time is typically 3-5 weeks.
4. Ghana Customs Clearing at Tema
Our clearing agents handle GRA documentation, duty assessment (30% CIF), DVLA registration, IDF (Import Declaration Form), and all port terminal charges.
5. Delivery Anywhere in Ghana
Once cleared, we deliver to your location in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, or anywhere in Ghana. Total timeline: 4-5 weeks from purchase to delivery.
Important Things to Know
- Ghana allows import of vehicles up to 10 years old from the year of manufacture.
- The 30% import duty is calculated on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
- Additional levies include ECOWAS Levy (0.5%), AU Levy (0.2%), Examination Fee (1%), and NHIL/GETFund (5%).
- All imported vehicles must undergo DVLA roadworthiness inspection before registration.
- Ghana Cedis (GHS) exchange rate fluctuations can significantly impact the final cost.
- Vehicles with salvage titles may be subject to additional scrutiny and higher duties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What documents are required to clear a car in Ghana?
You must present the Original Bill of Lading, US Certificate of Title, Customs Classification and Valuation Report (CCVR), IDF (Import Declaration Form), and a commercial invoice. Registration happens immediately after clearing.
Can I import overage vehicles to Ghana?
Yes, but vehicles older than 10 years are heavily penalized. You will incur significant overage penalties depending on the age (up to an additional 50% penalty). It's generally more cost-effective to import cars under the 10-year limit.
How does the GRA calculate duty?
The Ghana Revenue Authority applies the 30% duty to the vehicle's CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight). They do not just use your purchase invoice; they verify the value through the Home Delivery Value (HDV) database to prevent under-invoicing.
What is RoRo vs. Container shipping to Tema?
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) is cheaper ($2,000–$3,000) and your car is driven onto the ship. Container shipping ($4,000+) encloses the car fully. We recommend container shipping for high-value vehicles (>$100k) to prevent salt, weather, or port damage.
Import Guides for Other Countries
Ready to Import Your Dream Car to Ghana?
Use our Cost Estimator for a personalized quote, or browse inventory ready to ship to Tema Port.
