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Expat & Customs 6 min read August 04, 2026

Clearing Your Personal Shipping Container at Dar es Salaam Port

Clear explanations of TRA tax rules, duty-free rules for personal furniture, getting your TIN number, and avoiding extra storage fees at the port.

SM

Salome J. Mtema

E-E-A-T Verified

Customs Clearing Agent

Licensed TRA Customs Specialist

Clearing Your Personal Shipping Container at Dar es Salaam Port

Who Qualifies for Duty-Free Clearance?

If you are moving to Tanzania on a valid Work Permit (Class B), or if you are a Tanzanian returning home after living abroad for more than 12 months, you can import your used personal household goods without paying import tax duties.

Shipping Your Car to Tanzania

Importing a car is different from personal furniture. Cars imported into Tanzania pay Import Duty (25%), Excise Duty (based on engine size), and 18% VAT. Older cars (over 10 years old) also have an extra age penalty fee. Check with a clearing agent before shipping your car.

Getting Your TRA TIN Number

Before your container arrives at Dar Port, you must register for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) with TRA. Your clearing agent will use your passport, work permit, TIN, and itemized packing list to apply for your customs tax exemption.

Avoiding Extra Port Fees

The port gives 7 free storage days after your container is offloaded from the ship. Sending your shipping papers (Bill of Lading, Packing List, TIN copy) to your clearing agent 10 days before the ship lands gives them enough time to clear customs and prevent daily storage fees.

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