I wrote about this topic earlier and received one reply which did not cover the cost questions. Therefor again.. Thanks for your help..

I have been searching info on sending our 4x4 back from Dakar; but I find only a bit outdated or not specific enough info. Can anybody answer quite precisely following questions?

1. What price range is shipping a 4x4 Land Rover to Antwerp; Belgium, nowadays? 700 euro? 1000? 1500? How much do you have to add to the quoted price (taxes; extra fees, customs,…)
2. How much time in advance do we have to be in Dakar to arrange all stuff? Suppose we would like to catch a plane around 18 march, is 14 march arrival in Dakar enough time to arrange all formalities to ship the car and buy a plane ticket?
3. What companies do you suggest? What is the best way? Book the shipping someway in advance or just see on the spot?
4. How complicated is the procedure? Arrive, fill in papers on location and leave the car; or do you have to drive around Dakar to get permissions, stamps,…
5. How long does it take usually? 4 weeks? Or do they say 4 weeks and it becomes 6 weeks in reality?
6. Can we ship our car full of equipment? or is it likely it will be stolen?


Thanks for your advice.
Info on us: www.twinplanet.net

Greetings;
Patryk

If you are in Antwerp then it should be easy to get prices as this is the biggest shipping port from Europe TO Africa. Try any of Grimaldi's agents. Its not very safe, thoug I have heard good and bad stories.

Alternative is a 6m (20 foot) container. Try Maersk or Delmas. Get the prices in Antwerp, the advantage is that the container can be locked in front of you in Dakar port and it then doesnt matter how long it stays on the quay. Paperwork is straightforward.

Incidentally most (or all)of the theft happens in European ports or on the ship itself, Dakar port is in my experience very safe, but a container is easier Ithink. If you are lucky you may get another car in a 12m container or a couple of bikes in a 6m to share the price.

Plane tickets should not be a problem as it is still high season for tourists but a long way before easter.