Shipping to Ghana Seamlessly and Easily

Shipping to Ghana from USA

Are you looking to ship goods from the United States to Ghana? Whether you’re sending personal belongings, relocating your household, or expanding your business to West Africa, understanding the ins and outs of international shipping is crucial. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about shipping to Ghana from the USA.

In this article, you’ll learn about:

The best shipping methods for different types of cargo
Comparing top shipping companies serving the USA-Ghana route
Estimated costs and timeframes for various shipping options
Customs regulations and documentation requirements
Prohibited items and import restrictions
Tips for saving money on your shipments

Whether you’re a first-time shipper or an experienced importer, our expert insights will help you navigate the complexities of international freight to ensure your goods arrive safely and efficiently in Ghana.

Why choose Ameritrans Freight?

When it comes to international shipping from the USA to Ghana, Ameritrans Freight stands out as a leader in the industry. Here’s why we’re the preferred choice for businesses and individuals alike:

Expertise in Ghana Shipping: With over 30 years of experience, we deeply understand the unique challenges and requirements for shipping to Ghana.
Cost-Effective Solutions: We offer some of the most competitive rates in the market, often significantly lower than major carriers like DHL, FedEx, or UPS.
Comprehensive Service Range: From small packages to full container loads, we handle all types of shipments, including personal effects, vehicles, and commercial goods.
Custom Shipping Strategies: Our expert team develops tailored shipping plans to meet your specific needs and budget.
Door-to-Door Service: We manage the entire shipping process, from pickup at your US location to delivery at your final destination in Ghana.
Reliable Customs Clearance: Our knowledge of Ghanaian customs regulations ensures smooth, hassle-free clearance for your shipments.
Advanced Tracking: Stay informed about your shipment’s status with our real-time tracking system.
Excellent Customer Support: Our dedicated team is always ready to assist you, providing clear communication throughout the shipping process.
Extensive Network: We leverage our strong partnerships with carriers and agents to offer you the best routes and rates.
Flexible Options: Whether you need express air freight or economical sea freight, we have solutions to fit your timeline and budget.

Let us handle the complexities of international logistics while you focus on what matters most to you.

Door to door shipping to Ghana from USA

Door to door shipping to Ghana offers a convenient and hassle-free solution for shipping items from the USA to Ghana. It means your items are picked up from your specified location in the USA and delivered directly to the recipient’s address in Ghana. This service handles all aspects of the shipping process, including:

Pickup from your home or business in the USA
International freight service (by air or sea)
Customs clearance in Ghana
Final delivery to the destination address in Ghana

Benefits of Door to Door Shipping:

Convenience: You don’t need to drop off your items at a shipping center
Time-saving: We handle all logistics, paperwork, and customs procedures
Peace of mind: Your shipment is managed by professionals from start to finish
Tracking: Monitor your shipment’s progress throughout its journey

How to Book Door to Door Shipping with Ameritrans Freight:

Get a Quote: Contact us with details about your shipment (items, dimensions, weight, pickup and delivery addresses)
Choose Your Service/shipping method: Select from our air or sea freight options based on your timeline and budget. Also indicate whether you want LCL, FCL or RORO shipping.
Schedule Pickup: We’ll arrange a convenient time to collect your items
Track Your Shipment: Use our online tracking system to monitor your goods in transit
Delivery: We’ll notify you once your items have been successfully delivered in Ghana

Customs clearance in Ghana

Customs clearance involves obtaining necessary permits and paying applicable duties or taxes before your shipment can enter the country.

Required Documents

The specific documents required for customs clearance in Ghana may vary depending on the nature of your shipment. However, common documents include:

Commercial Invoice: A detailed document outlining the goods being shipped, their value, and the seller’s information.
Packing List: A list of items included in the shipment, along with their quantity and weight.
Bill of Lading: A document issued by the shipping company that serves as a contract of carriage.
Import License: For certain goods, an import license may be required.
Certificate of Origin: A document certifying the country of origin of the goods.

Customs Duties and Taxes

Upon arrival in Ghana, your shipment will be subject to import duties and taxes. The specific amounts will depend on factors such as:

Nature of Goods: The type of goods being imported will determine the applicable tariff rates.
Value of Goods: The declared value of the shipment will influence the amount of duties and taxes.
Country of Origin: The country where the goods were manufactured may affect tariff rates.

Customs Clearance Process

Documentation Submission: Submit the required documents to the Ghanaian customs authorities.
Inspection: Your shipment may undergo a physical inspection to verify its contents and declared value.
Duty and Tax Payment: Pay the applicable import duties and taxes.
Release: Once all requirements are met, your shipment will be released for import.

Tips for Smooth Customs Clearance

Prepare Documentation in Advance: Gather all necessary documents before your shipment arrives in Ghana to expedite the clearance process.
Understand Import Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Ghana’s import regulations to avoid delays or penalties.
Consider a Customs Broker: Hiring a customs broker can help streamline the clearance process and minimize potential issues.
Declare Goods Accurately: Provide accurate information about the contents and value of your shipment to avoid customs disputes.

LCL Shipping to Ghana from USA

Less than Container Load (LCL) shipping is an ideal choice for individuals or businesses looking to ship smaller quantities of goods to Ghana. Unlike Full Container Load (FCL) shipping, where you pay for the entire container, LCL allows you to share container space with other shippers. This makes it a more economical option if you don’t have enough cargo to fill a whole container.

Benefits of LCL Shipping to Ghana

Cost Efficiency: LCL shipping is perfect for smaller shipments, as you only pay for the space your goods occupy in the container. This makes it a more affordable option compared to FCL, where the cost of the entire container is borne by one shipper.
Flexibility: LCL shipping offers greater flexibility in terms of shipping schedules. Since multiple shippers share the same container, departures are more frequent. This allows you to ship your goods when it suits you, without waiting to fill an entire container.
Suitable for Various Goods: Whether you’re shipping personal belongings, small quantities of commercial goods, or even fragile items, LCL shipping can accommodate different types of cargo. The consolidated nature of LCL ensures that your goods are securely packed alongside other shipments, minimizing the risk of damage.
Environmental Impact: By sharing container space with other shippers, LCL shipping helps reduce the environmental footprint of each shipment. Fewer containers are needed, which contributes to more efficient use of shipping resources.

Estimated cost for LCL shipping to Ghana:

House hold goods- $700

LCL/CBM- $100.

Personal Item- $520

Prohibited items for shipping to Ghana from USA

Before sending them there, it is essential to know what products Ghana forbids. Visit the nation-specific custom site for a comprehensive list because each country’s list varies greatly. Following are a few examples of prohibited items:

metals
harmful byproducts
seeds
chemicals
collectibles
batteries
calendar
caustics
fumes, and empty airfare
artistry
alcoholic drinks
biological goods
carrier papers
enzymes
networking devices
blood
inspections
blood transfusions
computer components, and electronic parts
initially tries
makeup
credit or debit card blanks
IATA-defined dangerous goods
prescription and over-the-counter medications
electronic devices
electronic games
flammables, and credit card blanks
non-precious and valuable materials
money orders
paints
machine and electrical sections
travel documents
fragrance
fresh produce
food products
furs
gases
blue ice and particles
wet ice
industrial equipment
infectious substances
knives
dangerous liquids and alcohol
monitoring devices
healthcare samples
emergency aid & hardware
fresh produce
smartphone
toxins
gemstones
radar systems

Here are no banned imports into Ghana due to the extensive list of prohibited goods. Contact your container shipping service provider for more details.

How long does it take to ship from USA to Ghana?

Shipping from USA to Ghana by air freight takes around 5–10 business days, and 6–8 weeks by sea. Note that several factors such as the route used, geopolitical events, weather conditions, mode of transpot, and even peak seasons can affect these transit times.

Container shipping to Ghana

Container shipping is the most popular and reliable method for transporting goods to Ghana, offering flexibility, security, and efficiency. Whether you are a business looking to ship commercial cargo or an individual moving personal belongings, container shipping provides a comprehensive solution that meets diverse needs.

Types of containers for shipping to Ghana

Full Container Load (FCL): FCL is ideal for larger shipments where you need the entire container space for your cargo. With FCL, your goods are loaded into a single container, which is then sealed and shipped directly to Ghana. This option is perfect for businesses with bulk shipments or individuals relocating with a significant amount of personal belongings.
Less than Container Load (LCL): If your shipment doesn’t require the entire container space, LCL is a cost-effective alternative. You share the container with other shippers, and only pay for the space your cargo occupies. LCL is suitable for smaller shipments and offers flexibility with frequent shipping schedules.
Specialized Containers: Depending on the nature of your cargo, you may require specialized containers. For instance, refrigerated containers (reefers) are available for temperature-sensitive goods, while open-top containers are used for oversized items that can’t fit in standard containers. These options ensure that all types of cargo can be safely and efficiently transported to Ghana.

Factors affecting cost of container shipping to Ghana

The final cost of any international shipment is determined by five elements that most people are unaware of. Popular ones include the objects’ Weight or volume, the mode of transportation, and the distance traveled.

Other factors are;

The destination port

North Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf of Guinea is where the Ghanaian coastline meets, and the country’s seaports are well-equipped for shipping goods to its interior cities. The ports of Takoradi and Tema are two of its largest seaports. Because Kotoka and Kumasi airports are two international airports in Ghana, you can also send your container via air freight.

Date and season

Peak period for international freighting occurs in January, February, August, and September. These months see a sharp increase in the price of international shipping rates.

Household goods shipping to Ghana

You should pay according to the space your household goods occupy when exporting them to Ghana. An average cubic meter of cargo to Ghana costs $100. You will also have to pay for packing, loading/unloading, and furniture assembly/disassembly services if you want to use a full-service moving company. Choose package shipping services if you don’t want to relocate many things.

Two container sizes are available that are frequently utilized when exporting home furnishings by freight carriers. The 20-foot and 40-foot containers have enough room to hold a three-bedroom house’s furniture. However, the 40-foot container offers better value for your money because it can also carry vehicles or a small truck.

There are two primary options for shipping household goods to Ghana:

Full Container Load (FCL): This method involves renting an entire shipping container for your belongings. It’s suitable for large households or if you have specific packing requirements.
Less Than Container Load (LCL): This option allows you to share a container with other shippers, making it more cost-effective for smaller shipments.

Cost of 40ft container shipping to Ghana from USA

On average, the cost of shipping 40ft container to ghana is about $2,000. Typical price per cubic meter of space for less than a container load ranges around $115. Note that price may be higher if you wish to ship vehicles or other items that require special handling. The cost to transport a 40 FT container to Ghana with two standard-sized cars is around $4950.

Cost of 20ft container shipping to Ghana from USA

A 20-foot container will typically cost roughly $1,700 to send to Ghana. LCL price per cubic meter is $100 on average, the same as a 40-foot shipping container. The price will increase if you wish to ship an automobile or other items requiring special handling. A 20-foot container can cost more than $1,950 to send a single car in. By picking the best firm for container shipping services, you can assist in cutting costs. Shipping to Ghana from USA

Car Shipping from USA to Ghana

Shipping a car from the USA to Ghana can be a complex process, but with the right information and support, it can be smooth and hassle-free.

Shipping Methods: RoRo vs. Container Shipping

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping:
RoRo shipping is the most popular and cost-effective method for transporting vehicles to Ghana. Your car is driven onto a specialized vessel, secured in place, and then driven off upon arrival. This method is ideal for standard vehicles, such as sedans, SUVs, and trucks. The main advantage of RoRo shipping is its affordability and simplicity.

Container Shipping:
If you’re shipping high-value vehicles, luxury cars, or want to include personal belongings with your car, container shipping is a better option. Your car is loaded into a secure container, providing extra protection from the elements and potential damage during transit. This method is more expensive than RoRo but offers added security and flexibility.

Estimated Costs for Car Shipping to Ghana

The cost of shipping a car to Ghana varies depending on the method and size of the vehicle:

SUV (Container) – $2150

Sedan (Container) – $2100

SUV through RORO – $1125

Sedan through RORO – $1100

These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on factors such as fuel costs, seasonal demand, and port fees.

Documentation Required for Car Shipping

To ship a car to Ghana, you will need to provide specific documentation:

Bill of Lading: A legal document issued by the carrier that details the shipment and the terms of transport.
Commercial Invoice: A document that includes the sale details of the vehicle if applicable.
Title and Registration: Proof of ownership and the vehicle’s registration.
Export Declaration: A document required by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to declare the export of goods.

Ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete will help prevent delays and complications during the shipping process.

Customs Clearance and Import Duties

Once your car arrives in Ghana, it will need to clear customs. Ghana imposes import duties on vehicles, which vary based on the car’s age, engine capacity, and value. It’s crucial to calculate these costs in advance to avoid unexpected expenses. At Ameritrans Freight, we provide guidance on the customs clearance process, helping you navigate the necessary paperwork and regulations.

Transit Times and Delivery

The average transit time for car shipping from the USA to Ghana is as follows:

RoRo Shipping: 5–10 business days.
Container Shipping: 6–8 weeks.

Upon arrival, your car will either be delivered to the port or directly to your specified location, depending on the service you’ve chosen. We ensure timely and secure delivery, so your vehicle arrives in the same condition it was shipped.

Why Choose Ameritrans Freight for Car Shipping to Ghana?

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Ameritrans Freight is your trusted partner for shipping vehicles to Ghana. We offer competitive rates, personalized service, and expert guidance throughout the entire shipping process. Whether you’re shipping a single car or multiple vehicles, we provide the solutions you need for a hassle-free experience.

International Moving from USA to Ghana

At Ameritrans, we offer quick, simple, and affordable international shipping services for a household move to Ghana.

Estimated cost of international house moving

2000Lbs & Less – $735
3850 Lbs – $2750
4500 Lbs – $3090
18750 Lbs – $4055

Estimated cost from main ports in USA to Ghana

Pick up to destination port.	20ft container	40ft container.
Savannah-Tema.	$ 1,620	$ 3,325
Miami-Tema.	$ 1,750	$ 3,095
New York-Tema.	$ 1,680	$ 3,190
Long Beach-Tema.	$3,100	$4,800.
Seattle-Tema.	$5200	$5,200.
Oakland-Tema.	$4,800	$4,800.

The differences between Airfreight and ocean Freight for International shipping to Ghana from USA

When shipping goods from the USA to Ghana, you’ll primarily choose between two methods: air freight and sea freight. Each has its own advantages and considerations. Let’s break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Factor	Air Freight	Sea Freight
Speed	5-10 business days	6-8 weeks
Cost	More expensive, especially for heavy items	Generally more affordable, better for bulk items
Capacity	Limited by aircraft size	Can accommodate large/heavy items
Reliability	More predictable, less weather-affected	Subject to port delays, weather issues
Environmental Impact	Higher carbon footprint	More eco-friendly for large shipments
Customs Clearance	Often faster, may have higher fees	Can be slower, lower fees for bulk
Insurance	Lower premiums due to shorter transit time	May need more comprehensive coverage
Typical Goods	Electronics, perishables, urgent documents	Furniture, vehicles, industrial equipment
Best For	Quick delivery, high-value light items	Large/heavy items, bulk shipments, non-urgent
Size Limit	Best for under 200 kg	No practical limit (FCL/LCL options)

Extra shipping charges

These are some additional charges for international shipping:

Increase in general rates
Taxes and charges for customs
Inspection fees for containers
Border fees
Delivery fee.
Insurance for the cargo in the shipping container and its contents

To keep up with the enormous demand, international shipping companies generally increase their rates once a month (GRI). When demand for container shipping declines, they reduce prices to spur demand, and also the cycle repeats itself all year.

Ensure that the CRD of your shipping container does not fall within the periods of GRI implementation to avoid paying the additional charge.

When it comes to Air freight, Ameritrans Freight offers the best service. The first airport serving international flights in the nation is Kotoka International Airport (ACC). Whatever the Weight and also volume of your goods, we can ship them to Accra International Airport. We were familiar with flying high-end vehicles to Accra.

International shipping to Ghana from USA

Due to the extremely quick transit time, many West African shippers prefer to ship out of New York. Mostly, this has to do with shipping fees and transit.

The main shipping ports from the USA to Ghana are;

Dallas to Ghana
New Jersey to Ghana
Maryland to Ghana
Atlanta to Ghana

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ameritrans have a great team qualified to handle even the most delicate object. So, we diligently take care of that. We don’t charge you as much as you believe because we have been serving this industry for a long time. You pay a little portion of what you would earn to USPS/Ghana Post, DHL, FedEx, or UPS. Shipping to Ghana from USA

FAQs

When often does a shipment have to wait in customs before Ghana accepts it?

If the shipment is being delivered within Ghana, the average releasing time in Ghanaian ports is five days for reefer containers and seven days for dry containers. The containers may stay in those locations for up to 21 days if delivery is to other regions of West Africa.

Why does FCL quicker than LCL?

A full cargo load (FCL) is a load in which the customer uses a storage container for personal items. He will be in charge of loading the container from its origin and unloading it at the destination. Once the container is sent for delivery, it will travel directly to its destination without being altered.

On the other hand, less Than Cargo Load (LCL) is when customers decide to share a storage container with others who also made this decision. It will also be the shipping company’s responsibility to pack and unpack these containers. LCL shipments can pass through many ports because their customers and destinations vary. It seems to sense that the LCL will be slower than the FCL because they will need to be rebuilt in each destination.

Why are shipping taxes and shipping duties different?

Government agencies apply shipping taxes. They will be charged following a preset rate structure based on the overall value of the goods imported into the nation. Shipping charges depend on the features of the product. They may evolve and alter, but they are unchanging. A form of shipping tax is shipping duty. Shipping to Ghana from USA

What additional charges will I incur for international shipping to Ghana from USA?

Only four import taxes were stated under Ghana’s tariff system. This had been streamlined and brought into compliance with the ECOWAS trade liberalization program: 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20%. Agricultural and industrial machinery, the solar, wind, and also thermal energy. As well as, educational resources are still subject to the duty-free rate. Which is still 20% but is still applicable to these items.

How much space will be needed for my container to be delivered at residence?

You’ll need a large amount of room for storage container delivery to homes. You need at least 10′ of clearance because ocean containers are roughly 8′ wide. 50′ or so straightway authorization is required for a 20′ container. A straightway clearance of 110 feet is needed for a 40′ container. The trailer dropping off your container will want as much room as feasible.

What paperwork do I need for International shipping to Ghana from USA?

When shipping internationally, you’ll need a lot of essential documents. Here is a list of the critical documents you will require:

Commercial Invoice
Bills of Lading,
Packing Lists,
Shipper’s Letters of Instructions (SLI),
Automated Export System (AES) Filing,
Certificates of Origin (CO),
Incoterms
Safety Data Sheets (SDS),
Operational Instructions and Shipping