By Prince Shipping
Importing containers into Zimbabwe can be a profitable venture — but without the right logistics partner, it can quickly become a costly and confusing process. Whether you’re a small business importing retail goods, or a large company bringing in machinery, understanding how container shipping works is essential.
At Prince Shipping, we’ve been helping Zimbabwean businesses import goods efficiently since 1997. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about importing containers into Zimbabwe — from choosing the right shipping method to clearing your goods with ZIMRA.
1. Understanding Container Shipping
Container shipping is the backbone of international trade. Goods are packed into standardized steel containers — typically 20-foot or 40-foot units — and transported by sea, rail, or road.
Common container types include:
- Dry containers: For general cargo (e.g., clothing, electronics, furniture)
- Refrigerated containers: For perishable goods
- Open-top containers: For oversized cargo
- Flat racks: For heavy machinery or vehicles
Prince Shipping helps clients choose the most suitable container based on cargo type, value, and destination.
2. Choosing the Right Shipping Route
Most containers destined for Zimbabwe arrive through Durban Port (South Africa), Beira Port (Mozambique), or Walvis Bay (Namibia) before being transported inland via road or rail.
We handle multi-modal logistics, meaning Prince Shipping coordinates every step — from sea freight and port clearance to cross-border transport into Zimbabwe.
Popular routes include:
- China → Durban → Harare
- Europe → Beira → Mutare
- UAE → Walvis Bay → Bulawayo
3. Understanding Costs and Shipping Terms
Before importing, it’s vital to understand Incoterms — international rules defining the buyer’s and seller’s responsibilities.
Common shipping terms include:
- FOB (Free on Board): You pay for freight after goods are loaded onto the ship.
- CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight): Seller covers shipping and insurance to the port of destination.
- EXW (Ex Works): Buyer handles all transport from the seller’s premises.
Prince Shipping helps clients compare Incoterms to determine which option minimizes cost and risk.
4. Customs Clearing: How It Works in Zimbabwe
Once your container arrives, it must go through customs clearance to verify that duties and taxes are correctly paid.
At Prince Shipping, we handle the entire process:
- Document verification (invoice, packing list, bill of lading, import permit, tax clearance)
- ZIMRA classification and valuation of goods
- Payment of import duties and VAT
- Release and delivery of the container to your location
Because we are registered clearing agents, we ensure compliance with all customs regulations and prevent unnecessary penalties or delays.
5. Import Permits, Licenses & Rebates
Certain goods require special permits or licenses from the relevant authorities — for example:
- Medicines, cosmetics → MCAZ
- Food products → Ministry of Health / Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ)
- Industrial equipment → Ministry of Industry
Our team assists clients in applying for permits and claiming rebates where eligible — saving both time and money.
6. Container Tracking and Delivery
Once cleared, Prince Shipping arranges door-to-door delivery anywhere in Zimbabwe.
Our fleet and partner network ensure safe delivery to Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo, and beyond.
Clients receive real-time tracking updates, giving full visibility of their cargo’s journey from the supplier to final destination.
7. Common Challenges Importers Face (and How to Avoid Them)
Many Zimbabwean businesses lose money due to avoidable errors such as:
- Incorrect customs documentation
- Choosing unreliable shipping agents
- Underestimating import taxes
- Delays due to incomplete permits
With Prince Shipping, every step is handled by professionals — reducing delays, avoiding fines, and ensuring full compliance.
8. Why Work with Prince Shipping
With over 25 years of experience, Prince Shipping has become Zimbabwe’s most trusted shipping and clearing partner.
We offer:
✅ Complete container import management
✅ Licensed customs clearing
✅ Competitive freight rates
✅ Warehousing and consolidation options
✅ Import license & tax clearance support
✅ 24/7 customer assistance
We don’t just move goods — we move businesses forward.
9. Start Your Import Journey Today
Ready to import your next container safely and efficiently?
Let Prince Shipping handle the logistics while you focus on growing your business.
📞 Call: 0772 443 677 / 0719 999 922
📧 Email: operations@princeshipping.co.zw
🌐 Website: www.princeshipping.co.zw
💡 Final Word
Importing containers into Zimbabwe doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right partner, it’s a seamless process that empowers your business to grow, expand, and compete globally.
At Prince Shipping, we make that possible — one container at a time.
