Shipping a Classic or Vintage Car to Togo

I still remember the day I decided to ship my grandfather’s 1967 Mustang to Togo. At first, it seemed like a simple idea—send it overseas, get it restored, and maybe take it for a spin along the coastal roads near Lomé. Reality, as I soon realized, was far more complicated. Classic and vintage cars aren’t just vehicles; they’re investments, family heirlooms, and sometimes even works of art. Shipping one internationally requires patience, planning, and a fair bit of anxiety management.

If you’ve ever considered moving a classic car from the U.S. to Togo—or anywhere in West Africa—here’s a detailed, step-by-step account of what to expect, sprinkled with lessons I learned firsthand.

Understanding the Challenges

Shipping a classic or vintage car is not the same as shipping a standard sedan. For starters, older vehicles are often more fragile. Paint, chrome, and interior materials can’t always withstand the bumps, humidity, and salt exposure of ocean travel. Parts may be irreplaceable, and even minor scratches can significantly reduce a car’s value.

When I started researching, I quickly realized that the typical budget-minded RoRo shipping method might not be ideal. Cars are driven onto the ship with other vehicles, stacked like sardines on deck, and exposed to the elements. While RoRo is cheaper, for a 1967 Mustang—or a 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air—it seemed like leaving a priceless painting in the back of a pickup during a thunderstorm.

Container shipping, though more expensive, provides protection. The car is enclosed in a steel box, often lined with padding, strapped down, and isolated from the chaos of the ship deck. For anyone serious about preserving a classic car’s condition, container shipping appears to be the safer bet.

Preparing the Car

Before shipping, preparation is key. I spent a week meticulously inspecting my Mustang. I took detailed photographs from every angle, noted tiny scratches and imperfections, and even jotted down odometer readings.

Removing personal items is crucial—anything inside the car can shift and cause damage. Seats, floor mats, loose trim, and even spare tools need to be removed or securely fastened. For some older cars, I also had to check for fluid leaks, since even a minor spill during transit could cause rust or damage to sensitive components.

One tip I learned the hard way: check that the battery is properly disconnected, or at least secured, to prevent electrical shorts. My uncle shipped a vintage Porsche once, and a loose battery caused minor sparks that worried the shipping crew. Small details like this may appear trivial but can make a big difference.

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

As I mentioned earlier, RoRo is tempting for its lower price, but container shipping was the obvious choice for my Mustang. You can choose a 20ft container for a single car or a 40ft container if you want to include spare parts or other collectibles.

I also discovered that some companies offer “lift-on/lift-off” container services, where the car is loaded with cranes and additional padding is used. It may cost more, but it significantly reduces the chance of damage during loading and unloading. For classic cars, the extra expense often feels justified.

Insurance is another big consideration. Standard shipping insurance often only covers collision or total loss. For vintage cars, you want “full transit coverage,” which may include minor dents, scratches, and even damages caused by humidity or improper handling. I opted for full coverage, and though it increased the cost, I felt much more comfortable knowing the Mustang was fully protected.

The Shipping Timeline

Shipping a classic car to Togo isn’t instant. Here’s the rough timeline I followed, which may help you plan:

Week 1: Choose a shipping company, method, and insurance package. Compare quotes and check reviews.

Week 2: Prepare the car—clean it, remove personal items, inspect thoroughly, and document its condition.

Week 3: Pre-shipment inspection by the shipping company. They create a report, noting existing scratches, dents, and mechanical issues.

Week 4: Transport to the U.S. port. Some companies offer pickup, which I recommend to avoid delays or accidents en route.

Week 5: Loading into a container. Crew members secure the car with straps and padding.

Weeks 6–8: Transit across the Atlantic. From the East Coast, it usually takes four to five weeks to reach Lomé. Containers may take slightly longer due to handling and port processing.

Week 9: Port arrival and customs clearance in Togo. Experienced clearing agents are essential here—they know how to handle duties, VAT, and inspections.

Week 10: Vehicle release. Inspect the car immediately, compare to pre-shipment photos, and report any discrepancies.

Week 11: Minor repairs if needed, registration, and finally, enjoying your car on Togolese roads.

Handling Customs and Duties

Customs is often where people get tripped up. Togo has specific regulations for importing vehicles, including duties based on the car’s age and value. For classic cars, you may face higher scrutiny to verify authenticity and ensure proper valuation.

I worked with a clearing agent who specializes in vintage vehicles. He walked me through all the forms, including proof of purchase, pre-shipment inspection reports, and insurance documentation. Without his guidance, my Mustang might have sat at the port for weeks.

One subtle but important point: ensure the car is accurately described in the paperwork. Small errors, like mismatched model year or engine size, can delay release or create disputes over duty calculations.

Post-Arrival Inspection

When the car finally arrived, I held my breath as the container doors opened. Thankfully, the padding and careful handling paid off—the car was in the same condition as the inspection report indicated.

Even if everything looks perfect, check thoroughly. I had a minor issue with a loose trim piece that wasn’t secured properly. Document any problems immediately, photograph them, and notify the shipping company. Insurance claims are easier to process when you act quickly and provide clear evidence.

Common Challenges with Classic Car Shipping

Even with preparation, there are challenges unique to vintage cars:

Fragile parts: Chrome, glass, and rubber seals may not withstand jostling.

Mechanical sensitivity: Older engines and suspensions may not tolerate movement as well as modern cars.

Limited replacement parts: If something breaks, it may be difficult to source in Togo.

Insurance disputes: Some insurers may undervalue classic cars or exclude certain damage types.

In my experience, addressing these issues upfront—through preparation, careful shipping method choice, and comprehensive insurance—reduces stress significantly.

Tips From Experience

Here’s a collection of lessons I learned that may help you:

Invest in professional shipping services. Cheaper isn’t always better for a classic car.

Document everything. Photos, inspection reports, and receipts are your lifeline if damage occurs.

Use a reliable clearing agent in Togo. Vintage cars attract attention, and mistakes can cost weeks in delays.

Consider container padding. Even small shocks during transit can affect delicate parts.

Be patient. Shipping a car overseas is inherently slower than local transport.

I shipped another classic car later—a 1970 Jaguar XJ6—and followed these guidelines religiously. The process was smoother, and I avoided many of the anxiety spikes I experienced with the Mustang.

Conclusion

Shipping a classic or vintage car to Togo is more than a logistical challenge; it’s a careful balancing act between cost, protection, and peace of mind. RoRo shipping may be tempting for lower costs, but container shipping is almost always the safer option for preserving a vehicle’s condition.

From preparation, pre-shipment inspections, and transport to port, to customs clearance, post-arrival checks, and minor repairs, each step requires attention to detail. Insurance, documentation, and reliable clearing agents are your allies throughout the process.

At the end of the day, seeing a car that has survived decades—and multiple oceans—arrive in pristine condition is incredibly satisfying. It’s a mix of relief, pride, and excitement that’s hard to describe unless you’ve been through it yourself. If you’re considering shipping a classic or vintage car to Togo, approach it with care, plan thoroughly, and embrace the journey—it’s part of the experience.

Published on: Sep 07, 2025

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