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A Guide to Shipping a Barrel or Groceries Home

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Quick Summary

  • Method: Use a registered shipping or freight agent that specializes in the Zimbabwe route.
  • Main Cost: You pay the agent a fee based on the size and weight of your goods.
  • Customs Duty: Duty is payable in Zimbabwe on most new goods.
  • The Rebate: A "family rebate" of up to USD $200 per person can be claimed once a month on personal goods.
  • Key Document: A detailed packing list (manifest) is essential.

Sending a barrel, box, or groceries home is a common way for those in the diaspora to support family. The process is managed by shipping agents who consolidate goods and transport them to Zimbabwe by road or sea.

Step 1: Choose a Shipping Agent

Find a reputable shipping agent in your country of residence (e.g., UK, South Africa) that has a proven track record of shipping to Zimbabwe. Look for reviews and ask for recommendations in community groups.

Step 2: Packing and Declaration

  1. Pack Your Goods: Securely pack your items in a strong box or barrel.
  2. Create a Packing List: You must create a detailed list of every item in the box and its approximate value. This is crucial for the customs declaration. Be honest and as accurate as possible.
  3. Label Clearly: Clearly label the box with the full name, address, and phone number of the person who will be collecting it in Zimbabwe.

Step 3: Shipping and Payment

You will take your packed goods to the shipping agent's depot. They will weigh and measure your consignment and charge you a fee based on the size and weight. This fee covers transport to their depot in Zimbabwe (e.g., in Harare or Bulawayo).

Step 4: Collection and Customs in Zimbabwe

The shipping agent will notify the recipient when the goods have arrived and are ready for collection.

  1. Go to the Depot: The recipient will need to go to the agent's depot with their original National ID.
  2. ZIMRA Clearance: A ZIMRA official will be present at the depot. They will inspect your packing list and may physically inspect the goods to determine the customs duty payable.
  3. Claiming the Rebate: The recipient can claim a "family rebate" (also known as a "duty-free allowance") of up to USD $200 on personal goods once per calendar month. This is not for commercial goods.
  4. Pay Duty and Collect: After paying any duties required, the goods will be released to the recipient.

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Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Using Unregistered Agents: "Omalayitsha" or informal transporters can be cheaper but come with a high risk of your goods being lost, stolen, or impounded at the border.
  • Inaccurate Packing List: If your declared list does not match the contents of your box, ZIMRA can issue fines and may seize your goods.
  • Forgetting the Recipient's ID: The person collecting the goods MUST have their original ID, and their name must match the name on the box exactly.