Short answer: You can usually ship a vehicle to Jordan by RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) to Aqaba, the country’s only seaport on the Red Sea. From Hamburg, the sea route takes you through the Mediterranean and the Suez Canal into the Gulf of Aqaba. As well as cars, lorries, construction machinery and project cargo can also be shipped – depending on their dimensions, by RoRo, flat rack or container. The import process is crucial: check the current Jordanian requirements before booking and have your commercial invoice, bill of lading, vehicle documents and proof of export to hand.
The key points in 5 points
- Aqaba is the gateway to Jordan – the country’s only seaport.
- The route runs along the Suez Canal from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.
- RoRo is the standard for roadworthy cars, lorries and construction machinery.
- Check import requirements in advance – they decide on admission to the state.
- Documents complete Required documents: commercial invoice, B/L, vehicle documents, proof of export.
What makes Aqaba such a popular port of call?
Aqaba is situated in the very south of Jordan on the Gulf of Aqaba, an inlet of the Red Sea. As the country’s only seaport, it handles all maritime imports of vehicles and machinery. The city is also situated within a special economic zone, which has its own rules governing trade and duties. From there, goods are transported by road further inland.
What is the route from Hamburg to Aqaba?
From Hamburg, the journey takes you along the Atlantic coast and through the Mediterranean to the Suez Canal. From there, it continues into the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. The transit time depends on the timetable and stopovers; the route may change depending on circumstances. Our overview of the region will give you a broader perspective on Shipment to the Middle East.
What types of cargo can you ship to Aqaba?
Roadworthy cars, lorries and construction machinery are traditionally loaded on board via the ramp using the RoRo method. Oversized or non-roadworthy units and project cargo can be loaded onto a flat rack. For smaller vehicles or consignments requiring additional protection, a container may be the best option. ODS Orient has been operating as a freight forwarder in Hamburg since 1974 and tailors the appropriate loading method to the dimensions, weight and condition of the goods.
What documents and customs procedures are required?
The key documents are the commercial invoice, the bill of lading, the vehicle documents and the proof of export. In Germany, exports are processed via the electronic ATLAS export declaration; the basics are explained by the German customs. Jordan has its own import regulations for vehicles, covering aspects such as condition, technical specifications and age. These rules are subject to change – so please check the current import regulations with Jordanian customs or your freight forwarder before booking. You can find out what happens after arrival in our article on Customs clearance at the port of destination.
What practical tips can make shipping easier?
Allow plenty of time, as Ro-Ro sailings to Aqaba are not available every day. Empty the vehicle, document its condition with photographs and ensure that the chassis number and details on all documents match. Also, clarify at an early stage who will handle the formalities at the port of destination.
FAQ
Which port is the port of destination in Jordan?
Aqaba, on the Gulf of Aqaba, is Jordan’s only seaport and is therefore the port of destination for vehicle shipments.
How long does shipping to Aqaba take?
The sea journey through the Suez Canal usually takes several weeks. On top of that, there is the lead time, cargo handling and customs clearance.
Can I also ship construction machinery to Jordan?
Yes. Construction machinery that is roadworthy is transported by RoRo, whilst oversized or non-roadworthy parts are transported on flat racks.
Can I import any vehicle into Jordan?
Not necessarily. Jordan has its own import regulations for vehicles. Check the current rules before booking.
Is RoRo or container shipping better?
For roadworthy vehicles, RoRo is usually the simplest solution. A container is worth considering if additional protection is required.
Who is responsible for exports in Germany?
The export is 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.
