How do you ship cargo to Benin from the UK?
Two routes, one depot. Sea freight through the Port of Cotonou is the economical choice for bags, barrels, boxes, furniture and full 20ft/40ft containers — Cotonou is one of West Africa's busiest gateways, so sailings are frequent. Air freight into Cotonou (Cadjèhoun) suits urgent, fragile or high-value items, landing in days. We handle groupage (share a container) and full-container loads, with collection anywhere in the UK into our Dagenham depot.
How long does shipping from the UK to Benin take?
Sea cargo to Cotonou generally takes 4–6 weeks port-to-port plus inland delivery; some services transship through a neighbouring hub, which can add a few days. Air freight to Cotonou is typically a few working days. We quote a realistic window per shipment so you can plan around it.
What does it cost to ship to Benin?
Air freight is £5.90 per kg plus a £20 handling charge. Sea cargo starts from £70 per bag and varies with volume — call or email for a quote. Car shipping (UK→Benin) and full 20ft/40ft containers are quote-only. Everything is priced all-in, in GBP — no surprise charges billed to your family at the Beninese end.
Door-to-door delivery in Benin
We collect from any UK address into our Dagenham depot, ship, clear customs and deliver to the recipient's door — Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Abomey-Calavi and beyond. Prefer to drop off with us and have family collect at the other end? That works too.
Benin customs — what you need
Imports into Benin generally require an ECTN / BSC (Bordereau Électronique de Suivi des Cargaisons) issued before the vessel sails, plus French-language commercial documentation . Duty and VAT are assessed in CFA francs on arrival. We prepare the paperwork so your cargo isn't held, and advise on restricted items before you ship.
Shipping a car to Benin from the UK
Rolats ships cars, vans and SUVs to Benin (UK→Benin only) by container via Cotonou — a major regional vehicle-import gateway. Pricing is quote-only; send us the make, model and year and we'll confirm the cost and the documents Benin customs will ask for.
What can you send to Benin?
Bags & barrels, personal effects & household removals, electronics, food parcels, commercial stock, cars, and documents.
Why ship to Benin with Rolats?
Pan-African specialists with a Dagenham depot, true door-to-door (not just port-to-port), all-in GBP pricing, and Cotonou-savvy clearance. Founder-led by Michael Imona, HMRC Customs Authorised and EORI registered — serving the UK Beninese community across London and beyond.