Shipping containers from Europe to Africa doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you have the right guidance and support. At Africa Shipping Company, we’re here to simplify the process for you, whether you’re sending machinery, vehicles, or other goods.

Container shipping is the safest way to move your goods across the sea. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of shipping containers from Europe to Africa. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions and enjoy a smooth shipping experience. Let’s get started!

The very first step in your international shipping journey is choosing the right container size. Africa Shipping Company offers a variety of containers to fit your needs, including 20ft, 40ft, and 40ft high cube (HC) options.

• 20ft Container: This is perfect for smaller, less bulky shipments. It can carry up to 25,000 kg and its ideal for businesses that need a compact, cost-effective shipping solution.

• 40ft Container: This is the most commonly used container for international shipping. The 40ft container is perfect if you’re shipping large goods but don’t require extra height.

• 40ft High Cube (HC): If you want to ship goods that are particularly tall or oversized, you can use the High Cube container. It gives you an extra 1.5 feet of height, offering 15% more space than a standard 40ft container.

Your choice of container depends on the size and weight of your goods. If you’re unsure about what will work best for you, no worries! Reach out to us, and we’ll help you pick the perfect option to ensure you’re not paying for more space than you need.

Now that your container is packed and your paperwork is ready, it's time to choose your shipping method. There are two main options: FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less Than Container Load).

• Full Container Load (FCL): With FCL, you rent an entire container for your shipment. This is ideal for large shipments that can fill a container. Since your goods are the only ones in the container, you have more control over the shipment, thus reducing the chances of delays.

• Less Than Container Load (LCL): If you’re shipping a smaller load, LCL allows you to share a container with other customers. It’s more cost-effective but may take a little longer since the container needs to be filled up with other shipments before it can leave the port.

  When choosing between FCL and LCL, it’s important to consider the volume of your cargo and how quickly you need it to arrive in Africa. If you need guidance on this, our team can help you evaluate your options and recommend the most cost-effective and efficient solution based on your specific needs.

Several factors can affect the cost of container shipping. Understanding these factors will help you to budget effectively. Here are the main factors that affect shipping costs:

Container Size: Larger containers cost more to rent or purchase. For example, a 40ft container will cost more than a 20ft container.

Cargo Weight: Heavier shipments incur higher costs due to the extra fuel and resources required to transport them.

Destination: The further your goods are going, the higher the shipping fee will be. Ports in major African cities like Lagos, Durban, or Mombasa may have higher shipping costs due to their size and demand.

Insurance: While not mandatory, shipping insurance is highly recommended to protect your goods from loss or damage during transit.

You can reach out to our team of shipping experts for a free, no-obligation quotes, and we’ll walk you through all the costs involved in shipping your container, so you won’t be caught off guard by hidden fees.

While shipping goods from Europe to Africa is typically straightforward, a few challenges can crop up along the way. Here’s a rundown of what to expect and how to handle it:

1. Container Shortages: During busy seasons, container availability can be limited, which could lead to delays. Booking early can help avoid this, especially if you need a specific type of container or have a time-sensitive shipment.

2. Delays: Weather, port congestion, and customs issues can all cause delays. The best way to avoid unexpected holdups is to work with a reliable shipping company that knows the ropes and can anticipate these issues.

3. Hidden Fees: Be aware of potential port charges, customs fees, and storage costs. Make sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of all potential fees when you request a quote, so you can plan accordingly.

4. Insurance: You’ll want to protect your goods with insurance. We offer flexible insurance options to give you peace of mind throughout the process.

With the help of a reputable shipping company, you can navigate these challenges and ensure your shipment gets to Africa safely and on time.

Want to make your shipping process even easier? Here are a few practical tips:

• Pack Securely: Proper packing is essential for preventing damage during transit. Use enough padding to protect your goods, and make sure everything is tightly secured inside the container.

• Work with an Experienced Freight Forwarder: Choosing a trusted partner like Africa Shipping Company can save you time and stress. We’ll work with you to handle the logistics and paperwork.

• Track Your Shipment: We offer real-time tracking, so you can monitor your shipment’s journey from start to finish.

You’ll always know where your goods are and when to expect them.

At Africa Shipping Company, we’re all about making your shipping process as simple and efficient as possible. From container selection to logistics and paperwork, we’ve got the expertise to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Ready to get started? Reach out to us today for a free quote, and let us help you plan your next shipment from Europe to Africa. Our team is here to answer all your questions and ensure your goods make it to their destination without a hitch.