Short answer: You usually ship a vehicle to Libya via RoRo (roll-on/roll-off), i.e. without a crane or container: the roadworthy vehicle is driven onto the ship in Hamburg and travels via the North Sea, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean to the port of Tripoli. EU restrictions apply to Libya as part of an embargo regime, which may affect certain goods and consignees. You should therefore check before each booking whether your vehicle or consignee is affected, and ensure you have the commercial invoice, bill of lading, vehicle documents and proof of export ready and complete.
The key points in 5 points
- RoRo is the standard for roadworthy cars, lorries and construction machinery bound for Libya.
- Tripoli is the main port of call, other Libyan ports may be considered depending on the timetable.
- Export controls first: Check EU restrictions on Libya before each shipment.
- Cargo not ready for transport Can be transported on a flat rack or in a container.
- Documents complete Required documents: commercial invoice, B/L, vehicle documents, proof of export.
What makes the port of Tripoli so special?
Tripoli is Libya’s capital city and main port, and the most important gateway for vehicle and machinery imports into the west of the country. The port is situated directly on the Mediterranean Sea and is designed to handle Ro-Ro cargo, general cargo and containers. Depending on the destination within the country and the timetable, other Libyan ports such as Misrata or Benghazi may also be viable alternatives.
What is the route from Hamburg, and how long does it take?
From Hamburg, the sea route takes you through the North Sea and the English Channel, along the Atlantic coast and through the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean, all the way to Tripoli. The transit time depends on the ship’s rotation and the ports of call; expect the journey to take a few weeks, including pre- and post-cruise travel. You can find lots of basic information on voyages to the Mediterranean and North Africa in our article Ro-Ro transport to Africa.
What kind of cargo can be shipped to Libya?
Roadworthy cars, vans, lorries and self-propelled construction machinery are loaded on board via RoRo. Vehicles not in running order, oversized machinery or project cargo are secured on flat racks or shipped in containers. ODS Orient has been operating as a freight forwarder in Hamburg since 1974 and will work with you to determine the most suitable method of loading.
What documents and customs procedures are required?
The key documents are the commercial invoice, the bill of lading (as the transport document), the vehicle registration documents and the proof of export via the electronic export declaration. We explain which documents Germany requires for exports in the guide to Customs regulations for the export of vehicles from the EU. Separate regulations apply to imports into Libya. Check the current regulations with your consignee or an experienced freight forwarder before booking.
What do export controls mean for Libya?
An EU embargo regime is in place for Libya, imposing restrictions on certain goods and individuals. You must check before each shipment whether your vehicle, machinery or consignee is affected. An overview of the current embargoes is provided by the BAFA on Embargoes and Export Controls. ODS Orient checks these points when accepting an order; however, responsibility for the information provided remains with the exporter.
FAQ
Which port is the port of destination in Libya?
The main port of call is Tripoli. Depending on the timetable and destination, other Libyan ports such as Misrata or Benghazi may also be considered.
How long does shipping to Tripoli take?
The duration depends on the vessel’s rotation and port of call. Allow for a few weeks, including pre- and post-carriage.
Is RoRo or container shipping better?
For roadworthy vehicles, RoRo is usually the simplest solution. Containers or flat racks are the best option for non-roadworthy cargo or oversized loads.
Is there an embargo in place against Libya?
Yes, there are EU restrictions on certain goods and consignees in Libya. Please check before each shipment whether your consignment is affected.
Can I also ship construction machinery to Libya?
Yes. Self-propelled machinery is transported by RoRo, whilst non-roadworthy or oversized units are transported on flat racks.
Who is responsible for the export declaration in Germany?
Exports are processed via the electronic 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.
