Bought an SUV in Canada and want to ship it to Lomé? Unlike a compact sedan, an SUV comes with a few extra sizing and loading considerations worth planning for before booking. Here's what you need to know to organize this shipment by ocean container from Montreal.
In short: a standard SUV (think RAV4, CR-V, Highlander-class) generally loads into a 20' or 40' container without major issues, whether it travels alone or consolidated with another vehicle. Larger SUVs (full-size models like a Suburban or Tahoe) require a more precise check of available dimensions before confirming the booking.
Why an SUV's size changes the equation
A standard ocean container has fixed interior dimensions, both in height and width. Most family SUVs (compact and mid-size) fit without trouble into a 20' container, either alone or alongside a second compact vehicle, depending on available space. SUVs with higher rooflines, roof racks, or added accessories deserve a precise measurement check before loading to avoid surprises at the time of shipment.
Dimensions to check before buying or booking
If you're still choosing your vehicle, it's useful to know ahead of time the length, width, and especially the overall height of the SUV, including accessories (roof bars, antennas, bike racks). This helps determine whether the vehicle will travel alone in a container or can be consolidated with another one.
Steps to ship an SUV from Montreal
1. Purchase and transport to Montreal
Whether the SUV is bought from a dealer, a private seller, or an online marketplace, it first needs to be brought to our warehouse or consolidation point in Montreal.
2. Inspection and preparation
Before loading, the vehicle undergoes a visual inspection: reduced fuel level, no undeclared personal items inside the cabin, and overall condition documented with photos.
3. Ocean booking
VELOX LOGISTICS books the required space based on the SUV's size and whether you choose a dedicated container or consolidation with another vehicle.
4. Loading and securing
The SUV is positioned and securely strapped inside the container to limit movement during ocean transit.
5. Shipment to the Port Autonome de Lomé
The container is loaded onto a vessel departing from Montreal, bound for the Port Autonome de Lomé, according to the carrier's confirmed routing.
Documents required before export
As with any vehicle exported from Canada, the SUV must be presented with proof of ownership and an export declaration filed through the Canada Border Services Agency's (CBSA) CERS system. For a used vehicle, physical presentation is generally required approximately 72 hours before loading — it's recommended to confirm this timeline directly with the CBSA, as it may vary.
SUV type considerations
Compact and mid-size SUVs
These are the easiest to ship, as their dimensions fit well within standard container specs and they can usually be consolidated with a second vehicle.
Full-size and lifted SUVs
Some larger or lifted models with added accessories (oversized tires, raised suspension) may require a dedicated container or additional dimension checks before booking. Always flag these details to your logistics contact before confirming the shipment.
Hybrid and electric SUVs
If your SUV is hybrid or electric, let VELOX LOGISTICS know before booking: additional battery-related precautions may apply depending on the carrier's requirements.
Comparing consolidation and dedicated containers for an SUV
Choosing between a container dedicated solely to your SUV and consolidation with a second vehicle mostly depends on your priorities: a dedicated container simplifies logistics and reduces handling, while consolidation often optimizes available space when both vehicles' dimensions allow it. In either case, VELOX LOGISTICS assesses feasibility based on the precise measurements of each vehicle before confirming a solution.
Special case: modified SUVs
An SUV fitted with raised bumpers, wide running boards, or oversized tires may exceed the standard dimensions planned for consolidation. Flag any such modifications when requesting a quote so the VELOX LOGISTICS team can confirm the best container configuration before finalizing the booking.
How VELOX LOGISTICS helps
VELOX LOGISTICS manages the full ocean logistics chain for your SUV: transport to our Montreal warehouse, booking the right container space, secure loading, and shipment to the Port Autonome de Lomé. We work exclusively with 20' and 40' containers — we do not offer RoRo service. Customs clearance upon arrival in Togo remains the recipient's responsibility, handled with the Office Togolais des Recettes (OTR) and a local customs broker, and we do not guarantee door-to-door delivery.
To discuss your SUV's dimensions and available loading options, visit our Togo destination page, browse options on our vehicles page, and complete a booking.
FAQ
Does an SUV always travel alone in a container?
Not necessarily. Depending on its dimensions, it can often be consolidated with a second compact vehicle in the same 20' or 40' container.
Should I remove roof accessories before shipping?
It depends on the vehicle's total height with those accessories installed. It's best to flag their presence at booking time to check compatibility with the planned container.
Can personal items be left inside the SUV during transit?
Certain customs and ocean carrier rules limit or prohibit undeclared items inside the cabin. Check this with our team before loading.
How far in advance must I present my SUV for export?
For a used vehicle, presentation is generally required approximately 72 hours before loading, though it's recommended to confirm this directly with the CBSA.
Does VELOX LOGISTICS handle customs clearance in Lomé?
No. Customs clearance upon arrival in Togo is the recipient's responsibility, handled with the OTR and a local customs broker.
Conclusion
Shipping an SUV from Canada to Lomé simply requires a bit more attention to sizing and loading preparation than a standard sedan. With good planning, the process runs smoothly from start to finish. Request a quote from VELOX LOGISTICS today to learn about upcoming container availability suited to your vehicle.
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 — Montreal, Canada 6135 Couture Blvd, Saint-Léonard (Montreal), QC H1P 3G7 · WhatsApp 514-718-0282 · info@veloxlogistics.io
