SHIPPING FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Compare ocean and air freight routes from South Africa and request a quote tailored to your shipment.
BEST SHIPPING ROUTES FROM SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa is a major exporting economy on the African continent, with a network of major container ports handling outbound volumes across mining, agriculture, automotive, and manufactured goods. We connect South African businesses with markets worldwide through reliable, scheduled ocean and air freight services.
Compare key shipping options across major port pairs, with clear visibility of transit times, schedules, and market rates to support efficient export planning and decision-making.
We help South African businesses access competitive freight rates for outbound cargo, supported by smart routing and strong carrier partnerships across all major global trade lanes.
Reliable schedules
Regular weekly departures from South Africa's principal container ports ensure predictable, consistent transit times to markets worldwide, keeping your supply chain on plan.
Export compliance support
Our team guides businesses through export documentation, customs declarations, and regulatory requirements, helping you avoid delays at the point of departure.
Manage export costs
Transparent rate visibility and strong carrier partnerships help you control outbound freight spend across all major global trade lanes.
EXPLORE SHIPPING ROUTES FROM SOUTH AFRICA
A number of container ports and international airports serve South Africa's outbound trade. Below are among the most popular departure points for South African cargo. Speak to our freight specialists to find the route and port best suited to your shipment.
Durban (ZADUR)
OCEAN FREIGHT
One of Africa's busiest container ports and South Africa's primary export gateway, handling the majority of the country's containerised outbound trade.
Cape Town (ZACPT)
OCEAN FREIGHT
South Africa's second major container port, serving the Western Cape export corridor with connections to global trade lanes.
Gqeberha (ZAPLZ)
OCEAN FREIGHT
A key container port serving South Africa's Eastern Cape industrial and automotive export base.
Johannesburg (JNB)
AIR FREIGHT
South Africa's primary air freight hub for time-sensitive and high-value exports, with daily services to destinations worldwide.
Cape Town (CPT)
AIR FREIGHT
Cape Town (CPT) is a key air freight gateway for South Africa, supporting the movement of time-sensitive perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value cargo to international markets.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common questions about shipping cargo from South Africa, covering documentation, transit times, departure ports, and how DP World supports your outbound supply chain.
What documents do I need to ship cargo from South Africa?
Exporting cargo from South Africa requires documentation depending on the destination and cargo type. Standard requirements typically include a commercial invoice, packing list, and a bill of lading (the contract and receipt issued by the carrier) for ocean freight or an air waybill (the air freight equivalent) for air shipments. Most destinations also require an export declaration submitted through the relevant customs authority in South Africa. DP World's freight forwarding team can guide you through the specific requirements for your shipment and destination.
How long does ocean freight take from South Africa?
Transit times for ocean freight from South Africa vary by destination and shipping mode. Short-haul routes can be served in as little as 7 to 14 days, while long-haul destinations typically range from 25 to 35 days. Most major global trade lanes offer weekly scheduled departures from South Africa's principal container ports.
What are the main ports for shipping cargo from South Africa?
South Africa's principal container ports for outbound trade are Durban, Cape Town, and Gqeberha (Ngqura). Durban is one of Africa's busiest container ports and handles the majority of South Africa's exports. Cape Town serves the Western Cape's agricultural and industrial base. For air freight, OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (JNB) is the primary departure hub.
Which outbound shipping routes from South Africa does DP World serve?
DP World serves South Africa-origin cargo to destinations worldwide, with scheduled services across every major global trade lane. Port access, freight forwarding, customs, and supply chain services combine to move your cargo efficiently from South Africa to its final destination.
GET A QUOTE FOR YOUR SHIPMENT FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Request a quote today and our freight specialists will build the right ocean, air or multimodal route for your cargo from South Africa, with rates and schedules tailored to you.