Export Used Trucks to Zimbabwe

Used Trucks for Sale Zimbabwe – Commercial Vehicles from UK

Professional Truck Exports to Zimbabwe | Second Hand Lorries | Commercial Vehicle Imports

We’ve been shipping quality used trucks to Zimbabwe since 2003, and honestly, it’s been quite a journey. What started as occasional exports has grown into one of our strongest markets, with repeat customers from Harare to Bulawayo who keep coming back because they know what they’re getting.

The thing about Zimbabwe’s truck market is that operators can’t afford to get it wrong. Whether you’re running freight between Harare and Beitbridge, supporting mining operations around Kwekwe, or handling agricultural transport in the farming areas, your trucks need to work day in, day out. That’s exactly why UK-sourced vehicles have become so popular – they arrive with proper service histories and the kind of build quality that actually lasts.

Why Zimbabwean Operators Choose UK Commercial Vehicles

After two decades in this business, we’ve learned exactly what works in Zimbabwe and what doesn’t. The right-hand drive setup is obviously a massive advantage – no messing about with driver adaptation or visibility issues. But it goes deeper than that.

UK trucks come from a regulated environment where proper maintenance isn’t optional. The MOT system and operator licensing requirements mean these vehicles have been looked after properly. You can see it in the service records, the component condition, even the way they drive when they arrive.

Price-wise, it’s a no-brainer. A decent used truck from the UK typically costs around half what you’d pay for new, sometimes less. For Zimbabwean operators managing tight budgets, that difference often means the difference between expanding the fleet or staying put.

Parts availability has improved dramatically over the years too. There are now proper DAF, Scania, and Mercedes dealers with stock in Harare and Bulawayo. Even smaller centres like Mutare and Gweru have workshops that know their way around European trucks.

What Actually Sells Well in Zimbabwe

Let’s be honest about what works. After shipping hundreds of trucks over the years, certain models just keep coming up in orders, and there’s good reason for that.

DAF CF series – particularly the CF75 and CF85 – have become the go-to choice for long-haul operators. The fuel economy is excellent, which matters when you’re running Harare to Beitbridge regularly. We’ve shipped dozens of these, and the feedback is consistently positive.

Scania P and R series trucks work brilliantly in mining applications. The P320, R380, and R420 models seem to handle the rough conditions around Zimbabwe’s mining areas without too much trouble. Parts aren’t cheap, but they’re available, and the trucks just keep going.

Mercedes Actros models have found their niche in urban distribution, especially the 1831 and 1835 variants. They’re perfect for navigating Harare’s traffic whilst carrying decent loads. The build quality is obvious, and drivers seem to prefer them for city work.

Volvo FH series – these are the premium option. When operators want something special for prestige cargo or long-distance work, the FH12 and FH16 models are what they ask for. Higher purchase price, but they hold their value well.

Isuzu Forward and Hino 500 series remain extremely popular for medium-duty work. Japanese reliability, straightforward maintenance, and parts that don’t cost a fortune. They’re workhorses that just get on with the job.

MAN trucks have their followers too, particularly in construction. The TGA and TGX series offer serious payload capacity and seem to cope well with Zimbabwe’s road conditions.

Industry Applications

Mining sector – this is where the serious money gets spent. Operations around Mutare, Shamva, and down in Matabeleland need trucks that won’t let them down. Water tankers, fuel bowsers, equipment haulers – if it breaks down on a mine site, it costs serious money. That’s why mining companies often specify European trucks despite the higher upfront cost.

Agricultural transport has grown significantly. The tobacco auction floors, cotton ginneries, and grain depots all need reliable transport. Farmers are investing in better trucks because the old approach of running vehicles into the ground just doesn’t work anymore. The seasons are tight, and you can’t afford breakdowns during harvest.

Construction and infrastructure work keeps growing, especially around the expanding urban areas. Norton, Ruwa, Chitungwiza – there’s constant development happening. Concrete mixers, tippers, crane trucks – operators need equipment that can handle daily abuse whilst maintaining productivity.

Urban distribution has become much more sophisticated. The days of throwing everything onto a pickup truck are largely gone. Proper delivery schedules, professional drivers, vehicles that look the part – it all matters now.

Import Process

Importing trucks into Zimbabwe isn’t complicated, but it does require attention to detail. The 10-year age limit catches some people out, especially with specialist vehicles. ZIMRA has become more efficient, but you still need proper customs clearing agents who understand commercial vehicle classifications.

Duties and taxes add up quickly – typically 30-40% of the vehicle value by the time everything’s included. That’s why getting your initial costings right matters so much. There’s nothing worse than discovering hidden costs after you’ve committed to a purchase.

Technical inspection requirements have tightened up recently. The testing stations are more thorough now, which is actually good news because it means standards are improving across the industry.

Shipping Via Walvis Bay

The Walvis Bay route through Namibia has become our standard approach because it simply works better than the alternatives. Regular sailings, competitive rates, and the overland connection to Zimbabwe is reliable.

Road transport from Walvis Bay takes about a week in normal conditions. The route’s well-established, and there are plenty of experienced transporters who know exactly what they’re doing. Insurance coverage is comprehensive, and claims handling is straightforward when issues arise.

Choosing the Right Supplier

The used truck export business attracts all sorts, unfortunately. After 20+ years, we’ve seen operators get badly burned by dealing with the wrong people. Here’s what to look for:

Proper documentation is non-negotiable. If someone can’t provide detailed service records, walk away. Photographic evidence of vehicle condition should be comprehensive, not just a few glamour shots. Any reputable exporter will arrange independent inspection if you request it.

Pricing transparency matters hugely. The total landed cost should be clear from the start – no surprise extras when it comes to shipping or clearance. If someone’s reluctant to provide detailed costings, there’s usually a reason.

Communication standards tell you everything about how the business operates. Professional exporters respond promptly, answer questions directly, and keep you informed throughout the process. Poor communication during the sale usually means poor service after delivery.

Technical Support and Parts

One thing that’s improved dramatically is technical support across Zimbabwe. There are now properly trained technicians in most major centres, and diagnostic equipment is becoming more common.

Parts availability varies by manufacturer, but the main European brands are well-covered. DAF and Mercedes have excellent networks, Scania and Volvo parts are readily available, and even MAN components can usually be sourced within reasonable timeframes.

The key is buying mainstream models with established support networks. Unusual specifications or low-volume variants can cause parts headaches later, no matter how good the initial deal looks.

Getting It Right

Twenty years of shipping trucks to Zimbabwe has taught us that success comes down to understanding exactly what operators need. It’s not about the cheapest price or the fanciest specification – it’s about vehicles that will work reliably in Zimbabwean conditions whilst making economic sense.

The operators who do best are those who research properly, buy conservatively, and maintain professionally. The trucks are only as good as the support they receive once they’re working.

If you’re serious about importing quality used trucks to Zimbabwe, the opportunities are definitely there. The market continues growing, financing options have improved, and the technical support infrastructure keeps developing. Just make sure you’re dealing with people who understand both the vehicles and the market.

Contact Details

Paul – International Sales Manager

• Direct Line/WhatsApp: +44 7712 674458
• Email: sa***@*************ng.com

What we handle:

• Competitive shipping quotes via Walvis Bay port
• Professional vehicle sourcing for specific requirements
• Complete import documentation and customs support
• Pre-shipment inspection with detailed reporting
• Technical advice based on actual Zimbabwe operating experience

Based in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire

Whether you’re looking to expand operations around Harare, establish mining transport in the Midlands, develop agricultural logistics, or build distribution networks, we understand what works in Zimbabwe and what doesn’t.

Clugston International – shipping UK trucks to Zimbabwe for 20 years