Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from San Jose to Addis Ababa

Complete Required Documentation: Necessary documents include the car's title, bill of sale, and any import permits required by Ethiopian customs vehicle import rules. Delivery & Customs Clearance: Once your car arrives, it must pass through Ethiopian customs, where import duties and taxes are assessed.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances (under 500 miles), but for long cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles), shipping can become comparable or even cheaper when factoring in your time, food, lodging, and significant vehicle wear-and-tear, making driving less cost-effective despite lower upfront gas costs. The decision balances direct fuel savings against the hidden costs and time commitment of a long drive, with shipping offering convenience and preserving your car's mileage and condition.

In addition to customs duty, car importers in Ethiopia pay five different forms of tax: VAT of 15%; excise tax of up to 100% (depending on engine size); 10% surtax; withholding tax of 3%; and income tax.