Short answer: You usually ship a car to Pakistan by RoRo (roll-on/roll-off): the roadworthy vehicle is driven onto the ship at a European port of loading and travels via the Mediterranean Sea, the Suez Canal and the Arabian Sea to Karachi. More important than the route is the import process: Pakistan strictly regulates vehicle imports through fixed schemes and age limits for second-hand cars. Check the current rules in advance with Pakistani customs or your freight forwarder, and have the commercial invoice, bill of lading, vehicle documents and proof of export to hand.
The key points in 5 points
- RoRo is the standard for roadworthy vehicles bound for Pakistan.
- The port of destination is Karachi (Karachi or the neighbouring Port Qasim).
- Imports are strictly regulated – Schemes and age limits determine eligibility.
- Clarify in advance This is mandatory: Pakistani customs and the freight forwarder are aware of the current regulations.
- Documents complete Required documents: commercial invoice, B/L, vehicle documents, proof of export.
Which ports are suitable for loading?
In Europe, loading usually takes place via the major Ro-Ro hubs on the north and west coasts, such as Bremerhaven, Antwerp or Zeebrugge. Which port your vehicle actually departs from depends on the timetable and the shipping company you have booked with. It is important that your car is roadworthy and arrives at the terminal in good time before the loading deadline.
What is the route to Karachi?
The sea route runs from the European port through the Mediterranean Sea, via the Suez Canal into the Red Sea and on through the Arabian Sea to Karachi. Karachi, with Port Qasim, is the main gateway for vehicle imports into Pakistan. You will be familiar with similar routes from our overview of the Shipment to the Middle East, as both voyages use the same corridor through the Suez Canal.
Why is importing vehicles into Pakistan such a tricky business?
Pakistan only permits vehicles to be imported under specific import schemes, and strict age limits apply to second-hand cars. These rules change relatively frequently and determine whether a vehicle may be imported at all. You should therefore never rely on general information, but should clarify the specific details in advance with Pakistani customs or an experienced freight forwarder. This will help you avoid your car getting stuck at the port of destination.
What documents do you need?
The key documents are the commercial invoice, the bill of lading (as the transport document), the vehicle registration documents and the proof of export. On the German side, exports are processed via the electronic ATLAS export declaration; the basics are explained by the German customs. You can read about how the B/L, commercial invoice and releases such as Telex Release work together in our guide to Customs and documentation for RoRo.
What practical tips can make shipping easier?
Plan well in advance and book with a margin, as Ro-Ro sailings to Karachi are not available every day. Remove any personal belongings from the vehicle, document its condition with photographs and ensure that all documents are consistent. Also, clarify in advance who will handle customs clearance at the port of destination.
FAQ
How long does shipping to Pakistan take?
The sea journey alone via the Suez Canal to Karachi typically takes several weeks. On top of this, there is the pre- and post-carriage, as well as customs clearance.
Is RoRo or container shipping better?
For roadworthy cars, RoRo is the standard option and usually the simplest solution. A container may be a good option if the vehicle is not roadworthy or if additional protection is required.
Can I import any car into Pakistan?
No. Pakistan restricts imports through various schemes and age limits. Be sure to check the current conditions in advance.
Which port is the port of destination?
The main port of destination is Karachi, often in conjunction with Port Qasim.
Who is responsible for exports in Germany?
Exports are processed via the ATLAS export declaration. A freight forwarder can take care of this step for you.
All the information in this article has been carefully researched, but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the timeliness, accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Please contact us directly for a no-obligation quote.
