How Much Does RoRo Shipping Cost from Tilbury to Mombasa?
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) is usually the most affordable way to ship a vehicle from the UK to Kenya. Under this method, the vehicle is driven onto the vessel at the UK port and driven off when it arrives at the Port of Mombasa. RoRo remains the most popular shipping option for Kenyan vehicle importers because it is generally cheaper than container shipping.
Typical RoRo Shipping Costs
Current market rates for UK-to-Mombasa RoRo shipments are commonly in the following ranges:
| Vehicle Type | Typical RoRo Shipping Cost |
|---|---|
| Small Car / Saloon | £920 – £1,295 |
| SUV / 4×4 / Pickup | £1,200 – £1,395 |
| Large Vans | £1,200+ |
These figures generally cover ocean freight from the UK port to Mombasa and may not include customs clearance, taxes, inspection fees, or inland transport.
What Is Usually Included?
The RoRo shipping charge typically includes:
- Ocean freight
- Export documentation
- Bill of Lading
- Port loading charges
Additional services are often charged separately.
Additional Costs to Budget For
Besides shipping, you should also plan for:
- KEBS inspection fees
- Import Duty
- Excise Duty
- VAT
- Import Declaration Fee (IDF)
- Railway Development Levy (RDL)
- Mombasa port charges
- Clearing agent fees
- Transport from Mombasa to Nairobi
For many imported vehicles, taxes and clearance costs can exceed the actual shipping cost.
Transit Time
RoRo shipments from Tilbury to Mombasa typically take approximately:
- 26–30 days at sea
- Plus customs clearance time after arrival
Most importers should allow 5–8 weeks from UK vehicle handover to final release in Kenya.
RoRo vs Container Shipping
RoRo
Advantages:
- Lowest shipping cost
- Faster loading process
- Ideal for standard vehicles
Disadvantages:
- Personal goods are generally not permitted inside the vehicle
- Less protection than a container
Container Shipping
Advantages:
- Better security
- Allows shipment of spare parts and personal effects
- Suitable for high-value vehicles
Disadvantages:
- Higher shipping cost
Container shipping from the UK to Mombasa often starts from about £2,000 for a 20-foot container.
Final Thoughts
For most importers, RoRo shipping from Tilbury to Mombasa costs roughly £920–£1,395, depending on the vehicle’s size and type. Before purchasing a vehicle, it is important to calculate the full landed cost, including shipping, KRA duties, taxes, inspection fees, and local clearance charges.
For vehicle shipping quotations, RoRo services, container shipping, customs clearance guidance, and freight forwarding from the UK to Kenya, contact:
UK World Cargo
Abdi Haji
📞 +44 7487 554202
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7487 554202