How to Export a Vehicle from China to Senegal
Background
Senegal imposes age restrictions on used cars, while battery electric vehicles (BEVs) may be eligible for exemptions from import duties and value-added tax (VAT) — subject to customs' actual implementation.
Choosing the Vehicle to Export
When selecting a vehicle for export, keep the following in mind:
- Age limit for used cars: Year of manufacture ≤ 5–8 years (varies by vehicle type and policy cycle).
- BEV tax incentives: Pure electric vehicles may qualify for import duty and VAT exemptions (confirm in advance with relevant authorities).
- Driving orientation: Left-hand drive vehicles can be used directly, as Senegal follows right-hand traffic and accepts left-hand drive cars.
Export Process
1. Before Export (China Side)
Secure the following documents for Senegalese customs clearance:
- Sales contract
- Commercial invoice
- Bill of lading
- Certificate of conformity (if applicable)
- Vehicle manual
- Vehicle registration certificate and deregistration certificate (issued in China)
- Vehicle technical inspection report (recommended to include mileage and overall condition)
- Dangerous goods transport declaration for batteries (mandatory for BEVs)
2. Arrival in Senegal — Customs Clearance
Once the vehicle arrives at the Port of Dakar, proceed with the following steps:
Document Submission
Submit the complete set of documents to Senegalese customs:
- Bill of lading
- Commercial invoice
- Identification documents (for individuals) / company documents (for businesses)
- Vehicle deregistration certificate (from China)
- Vehicle technical inspection report
- Prior customs confirmation letter (if applying for BEV tax exemptions)
Vehicle Inspection (if required)
Senegal typically mandates the following checks:
- Vehicle age verification (to comply with import restrictions)
- Technical condition assessment
- Emission and safety inspections (BEVs have lower emission requirements)
Tax Payment / Exemption Confirmation
- For non-exempt vehicles: Pay import duties, VAT, and other vehicle-related taxes (classified by customs).
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For BEVs with approved exemptions:
- Import duty = 0 (may apply)
- VAT = 0 (may apply)
- Port handling and registration fees still apply
Customs Release
After document verification, inspection, and tax clearance, the vehicle will be released by customs.
3. Vehicle Inspection & Registration
Post-customs clearance, complete these final steps to legally operate the vehicle:
- Purchase commercial vehicle insurance.
- Undergo local vehicle technical inspection (if required by Senegalese regulations).
- Complete registration and license plate issuance.
Required documents for registration:
- Customs clearance documents
- Proof of ownership
- Technical inspection certificate
- Insurance certificate
Taxes & Duties
For a detailed breakdown of applicable taxes and duties, click the image below to access the full spreadsheet.
Important Notes
- Verify vehicle age: Confirm the production year meets Senegal’s import eligibility criteria before shipping.
- BEV exemption preparation: Secure written confirmation from Senegalese customs in advance if claiming tax exemptions for electric vehicles.
- Document translation: Translating all documents into French will help expedite customs clearance (French is Senegal’s official language).
Exporting a vehicle from China to Senegal requires careful adherence to documentation, policy checks, and local regulations. By following this guide, you can streamline the process and avoid delays. Always confirm the latest policies with Senegalese customs or a trusted logistics partner before initiating shipment!
