Used Trucks for Export to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is one of our most established export markets, and we’ve been shipping used trucks and trailers from the UK to Zimbabwean buyers for over 20 years. Whether you’re in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, or operating fleets in the mining or agricultural sector, here’s what you need to know about buying from us and getting your truck home.

Why Kenyan buyers choose UK trucks

Kenya drives on the left, so UK trucks, built right-hand drive as standard, need no steering conversion and are ready to work the day they clear customs. UK commercial vehicles also run under some of the strictest MOT and maintenance regimes in the world, which means the trucks reaching Mombasa have real service history behind them, not just a low odometer reading.

Shipping to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is landlocked, so trucks travel in two stages: by sea from the UK, then overland into Zimbabwe.

By sea, trucks are shipped RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) to the Port of Walvis Bay, Nambia; the most commonly used route, or to Beira, Mozambique as an alternative. Sea transit from the UK typically runs in the region of 3–5 weeks, depending on sailing schedule.
Once in Walvis Bay, You will clear the truck and transport to Zimbabwe.

Import rules you should know before you buy

Zimbabwe’s vehicle import framework is administered by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), and the rules for commercial trucks differ in some important ways from those for passenger cars:

No age restriction on trucks – Zimbabwe applies a 10-year age limit to passenger cars, but haulage trucks, tractor units, and other specialised commercial vehicles are currently exempt from this restriction. This is a genuine advantage over several neighbouring markets.
RHD and LHD both permitted – unlike some markets, Zimbabwe accepts both righthand and left-hand drive vehicles.
Pre-shipment inspection required – a compulsory roadworthiness inspection and certificate (commonly a CBCA certificate via Bureau Veritas) is required before import.
Customs Declaration (Form 47) – submitted through ZIMRA’s ASYCUDA World system, along with commercial invoice, bill of lading, and original vehicle registration/export documents.
Duty, surtax and VAT – duty on commercial trucks is calculated on CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value and is generally more favourable for heavy-duty trucks than for light commercial or passenger vehicles; surtax and 15% VAT also apply. Exact rates depend on vehicle weight, engine size, and current ZIMRA schedules.

Import rules and duty schedules are updated periodically by ZIMRA — we recommend confirming current rates and documentation requirements with ZIMRA or your clearing agent before finalising a purchase. We’re happy to share the guidance we’re currently working from.

Popular trucks for the Kenyan market

Based on what we regularly export to Zimbabwe, demand tends to concentrate on:

Tipper trucks and haulage rigids – heavily used across Zimbabwe’s mining sector, particularly for ore, aggregate, and construction material transport.
Tractor units – for long-distance freight along the Beitbridge and Forbes corridors.
DAF, MAN, and Scania – strong reputations for durability and reasonable parts availability across Zimbabwe and the wider region.
Agricultural haulage vehicles – for produce transport to urban markets, particularly around harvest season

How buying from Sotrex works

Browse or ask – check our current stock, or tell us what you need and we’ll source it.
Inspection and documentation – every truck is inspected before export, with photos and video available on request via WhatsApp.
Purchase and paperwork – we handle UK-side export documentation.
Shipping to Walvis Bay, Nambia – we arrange or coordinate shipping and keep you updated through to arrival.
Clearance in Walvis Bay – your local clearing agent handles customs; we’ll provide the documents they’ll need

Frequently asked questions

Do trucks face the same age limit as cars in Zimbabwe?

No. Zimbabwe’s 10-year age restriction applies to passenger vehicles; haulage trucks and other specialised commercial vehicles are currently exempt.

Can I import a left-hand drive truck into Zimbabwe?

Yes, both RHD and LHD vehicles are permitted, which gives Zimbabwean buyers more flexibility than several neighbouring markets.

How long does the full journey take, from UK to Zimbabwe?

Typically 4–7 weeks in total — around 3–4 weeks by sea to Walvis Bay, plus onward road transport and border clearance time.

Do I need a clearing agent for Walvis Bay?

Yes, a licensed clearing agent handles customs declaration and border processing at Walvis Bay. We can point you toward contacts we’ve worked with previously.

Can Sotrex source a specific make or model if it's not currently in stock?

Yes. We regularly source trucks to order through our extensive UK motor trade network.