Importing a car from Canada to Togo involves several distinct categories of cost, not a single flat number. In short: you should generally plan for the vehicle's purchase price, local transport to the Montréal warehouse, ocean container freight to Lomé, and then, upon arrival, customs duties, taxes, and any port fees set by Togolese authorities. None of these amounts are universal — they vary by vehicle, container type, and current regulations, which is why a personalized quote matters.
Main fee categories to anticipate
1. The vehicle's purchase price
This is the first expense, depending on the model, year, mileage, and condition of the vehicle you choose. Whether buying from a dealer or a private seller, also budget for a pre-purchase mechanical inspection if needed.
2. Transport to the Montréal warehouse
If the vehicle isn't already in Montréal, inland transport (by truck or road) is often needed to bring it to our warehouse, the starting point for the ocean shipment.
3. Ocean container freight
Ocean freight cost depends on several factors: the container type used (20' or 40'), whether the vehicle ships alone or through consolidation with other vehicles, the vehicle's size and weight, and market conditions at the time of booking. VELOX LOGISTICS does not offer RoRo service — all our shipments go by container, which also shapes the pricing structure.
4. Administrative and documentation fees
Certain documents, such as an export report or certified copies, may generate small administrative fees on both the Canadian and Togolese sides.
5. Customs duties and taxes upon arrival in Togo
Once the vehicle reaches the Autonomous Port of Lomé, duties and taxes apply, assessed by the Office Togolais des Recettes based on criteria such as age, value, and engine size. These amounts change with current regulations and must be confirmed directly with OTR or your customs broker.
6. Port and storage fees
Beyond a certain number of days after the container arrives, storage (demurrage) fees may apply if the vehicle isn't picked up promptly — another reason to prepare your clearance file early.
7. Local transport after release
Finally, once the vehicle leaves the port, you'll typically need to budget for local transport to its final destination in Lomé or elsewhere in Togo.
Why there's no "standard price"
Every import project is different: the vehicle's model, size, and weight, the container type chosen, the number of consolidated vehicles, and ocean market conditions at booking time all directly influence the overall cost. That's why VELOX LOGISTICS doesn't publish generic online rates but instead prepares a personalized quote for each client, based on their vehicle and situation.
How to get a reliable estimate
The best way to understand the real costs for your project is to provide accurate vehicle details (make, model, year, approximate dimensions) and request a detailed quote. For the Togolese customs portion, a local customs broker can tell you the applicable duties and taxes under current regulations at the time of import.
Factors that influence the overall project cost
Beyond the main fee categories, certain specific elements directly affect the final amount: the vehicle's size and weight (a large SUV takes up more space than a small sedan), the choice between a dedicated container or consolidation, the booking season (ocean freight demand can fluctuate throughout the year), and available sailing space from Montréal. An accident-damaged or non-running vehicle may also require special handling, which can affect loading logistics.
Planning a budget margin
Since several fees — particularly those tied to Togolese customs — are only confirmed at the time of clearance, it's wise to plan a budget margin rather than rely on a single number calculated in advance. Staying in regular contact with your customs broker and your logistics partner in Canada helps you adjust expectations as the project progresses, from choosing the vehicle to receiving it in Lomé.
How VELOX LOGISTICS helps
Key facts — VELOX LOGISTICS
- Based in Montreal (Saint-Léonard, Quebec); every shipment departs from Montreal.
- Vehicles ship by 20- or 40-foot ocean container only. We do not offer RoRo shipping.
- VELOX LOGISTICS does not sell vehicles: we arrange transport for the vehicle you have bought.
- Prices and timelines are quoted for each shipment, based on the vehicle, the container and the next available sailing.
- Customs clearance in Togo is arranged by the recipient, with a licensed customs broker in Lomé.
VELOX LOGISTICS is a Montréal-based logistics company specialized in ocean container shipping of vehicles to Africa, including Togo. We handle booking, vehicle consolidation, and secure loading into 20' or 40' containers, from our Montréal warehouse to the Port of Lomé. Every client receives a quote tailored to their vehicle and needs, with no surprises. For duties and taxes upon arrival in Togo, we recommend contacting OTR or a licensed customs broker, as that portion falls outside our services. Request a booking now or browse our available vehicles options.
FAQ
Can VELOX LOGISTICS give me an exact price right away?
We prepare a personalized quote based on your vehicle, the container type, and sailing availability from Montréal.
Are Togolese customs duties included in the ocean freight price?
No, Togolese duties and taxes are separate from ocean freight costs and are collected by OTR upon arrival in Togo.
Does consolidation reduce costs?
Consolidation means sharing a container with other vehicles, which can be an interesting option depending on your situation — ask our team about it.
Are there fees after the vehicle arrives in Lomé?
Yes, port fees, storage charges, or local transport costs may apply once the vehicle is unloaded.
How can I avoid storage fees at the port?
By preparing your clearance file in advance and staying in regular contact with your customs broker as soon as the vessel's arrival is announced.
Conclusion
Importing a car from Canada to Togo involves several fee categories, from ocean freight to Togolese customs duties. For a clear estimate tailored to your vehicle, request a personalized quote from VELOX LOGISTICS today.
VELOX LOGISTICS — Montréal, Canada 📍 6135, boul. Couture, Saint-Léonard (Montréal), QC H1P 3G7 · WhatsApp 514-718-0282 · info@veloxlogistics.io 🌐 https://veloxlogistics.io/
See also our FAQ and our guide on customs clearance for a car imported from Canada to Togo.
