Short answer: The easiest way to ship a car to Lebanon is by RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) from Hamburg or another northern European port to Beirut. The roadworthy vehicle rolls on board and travels across the Atlantic and the Strait of Gibraltar through the Mediterranean to the eastern Mediterranean, without passing through the Suez Canal at all. For vehicles that are not roadworthy, oversized loads or project cargo, flat racks and containers are available. It is essential to have all the necessary documentation and to comply with Lebanese import regulations, which you should check to ensure they are up to date before booking.
The key points in 5 points
- Beirut is the port of destination and Lebanon’s most important seaport.
- The route remains in the Mediterranean: Hamburg – Gibraltar – eastern Mediterranean, excluding the Suez Canal.
- RoRo is the standard for passenger cars, flat racks and containers; add to this for special cases.
- Import requirements are subject to change and must be checked before booking.
- Exports from Germany is processed via the ATLAS export declaration.
Why is Beirut the port of destination for vehicles entering Lebanon?
Beirut is Lebanon’s main port and is situated on the eastern Mediterranean coast, in the heart of the country’s largest city. Scheduled shipping services to Lebanon call at Beirut, where customs clearance and collection take place directly at the port. Please arrange in advance who will collect your vehicle from the port.
What is the route from Hamburg to Beirut?
From Hamburg or another northern European port, the route takes you across the North Sea and the English Channel, along the Atlantic coast and through the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean. From there, the journey continues to Beirut in the eastern Mediterranean. Depending on the scheduled service, there may be stopovers or a transhipment at a Mediterranean port. The transit time is measured in weeks and depends heavily on the timetable, so be sure to allow for pre- and post-carriage as well as a buffer. Our article on Shipment to the Middle East.
What sort of cargo is being shipped on this lane?
The classic option is a roadworthy car transported by RoRo. In addition, ‘high & heavy’ loads such as lorries, buses, construction machinery and agricultural machinery are transported on the same route, provided they are loaded on board under their own power. For vehicles that are not roadworthy, oversized machinery or project cargo, the flat rack is suitable; for vehicles requiring special protection or additional cargo, the container is the preferred option.
What documents and customs regulations apply to Lebanon?
On the German side, you’ll need a commercial invoice, vehicle documents and the export declaration via ATLAS; the basics are explained in the German customs. In addition, there is the bill of lading as a transport document. In Lebanon, the recipient clears the vehicle through customs and then registers it. Additional requirements may apply to second-hand cars, such as those relating to the vehicle’s age or supporting documentation. Check the current import requirements before booking. Our guide shows you exactly what needs to be included in the file: RoRo Documents Checklist.
How do you prepare the vehicle for shipping?
Remove any personal belongings, take photographs of the vehicle’s condition and leave only a small amount of fuel in the tank. The chassis number, invoice and documentation must match exactly; otherwise, there may be delays at the port of destination.
Why use ODS Orient to ship to Beirut?
ODS Orient is a freight forwarding company based in Hamburg that has specialised in the shipping of vehicles since 1974. We organise RoRo, flat rack and container shipments from Northern Europe and, on request, can handle the export clearance process. Costs depend on the vehicle, its dimensions and the departure date – simply ask for a quote.
FAQ
How long does it take for the shipment to reach Beirut?
Usually a few weeks, depending on the timetable and any possible transhipments.
Does the ship sail through the Suez Canal?
No. Beirut is in the eastern Mediterranean; the route goes via Gibraltar, straight across the Mediterranean.
Can I ship a lorry or a piece of construction machinery?
Yes. High & Heavy cargo that can be rolled on is transported by Ro-Ro, whilst cargo that cannot be rolled on or oversized units are transported by flat rack.
Can any second-hand vehicle be imported into Lebanon?
Not necessarily. There may be restrictions, for example regarding the age of the vehicle, so please check these before booking.
Who clears the vehicle through customs in Beirut?
Usually the consignee or an agent appointed by them at the destination.
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.
