Published by Chris Townsend
Last updated Dec, 08 2025
How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Container To Sierra Leone?
Sierra Leone Container Shipping Cost
Attempting to figure out everything that will affect the cost of what you want to ship can be impossible for someone who hasn’t done it before. You might’ve thought of the effect the volume or size of your cargo will have on the shipping charges. There is also the distance to the destination to consider. Three Men And A Truck is an international shipping company that ships to Sierra Leone, and we will help you understand what you need to know if you intend to send items there.
Factors That Affect the Expense of Relocating
Some factors will affect the cost of shipping as they are the metrics by which freight shipping is calculated. They are:
- The volume and weight of the items to be shipped: If your cargo is heavy, it will be more expensive to ship than if it is lighter. This is particularly true when transporting by plane.
- The type of transportation used: Although air is quicker in its delivery times, it is more expensive, which must be considered.
- Distance: The farther the distance between you and the destination, the higher the expense.
- The destination port: Ports have their own rules and regulations, and these rules might incur higher freight costs.
- The peak period: The peak shipping time to Sierra Leone is Between May and September. Christmas might extend the peak period to December. Cargo shipping during this period might incur more charges than at other times of the year.
Which Size of Container Works Best for Me?
What if you want to ship everything in your three-bedroom flat or your car, or 50 fridges? If you want to ship anything close to this in volume, you will need a 20ft container. If your cargo is more than this, then you should look into using a 40ft container.
There are two types of container loads. There is the Full Container Load (FCL) option which is a container full of a single client’s cargo. Then there is Less Than Container Load (LCL). The container is filled with items from different clients. LCL is measured in cubic meters.
Instant Rates For Shipping Containers To Sierra Leone
Average Container Hauling Rates Estimates
FCL shipping is best for transporting lots of boxes, pallets and anything which will require a full container shipping to Sierra Leone of up to 45,000lbs.
Full Container Load (FCL) Shipping Rates | |
|---|---|
| 20 ft Container | $1481 |
| 40 ft Container | $1681 |
LCL shipping is a more affordable way to transport less than container load shipments to Sierra Leone.
Less Than Container (LCL) Shipping Rates | |
|---|---|
| LCL | $151/CBM |
| Personal Effects | $815 |
| Household Goods | $1110 |
International House moving to Sierra Leone services - quick, easy, and cheap.
International House Moving Costs | |
|---|---|
| Partial House (2000Lbs & Less) | $715 |
| 1 Bedroom (3850 Lbs) | $1510 |
| 2 Bedroom (4500 Lbs) | $2615 |
| 3+ Bedroom (8750 Lbs) | $4510 |
International auto transport services to Sierra Leone via RoRo and container ships. Ship cars, trucks, suvs, atv's, boats, RV's, heavy equipment and more.
Container Car Shipping | |
|---|---|
| Sedan via RORO | $1210 |
| SUV via RORO | $1315 |
| Sedan (Container) | $2150 |
| SUV (Container) | $2210 |
Understanding The Different Types of Freight Transportation
Most items are shipped to countries through air, sea, and land. For Sierra Leone, air and sea are the most popular ways through which cargo is brought into the country. Land transportation is used for door service when the cargo comes from neighboring countries.
The shipping method you use if you have large-volume cargo is sea freight shipments. Items like shipping cars, household items, electronics, and food items are usually shipped by sea. It is important to note that shipping by sea might take a while so if you have time-sensitive items don’t use the sea.
Air freight services is very suitable for items that you need to arrive quickly or fragile items. Air shipping, although more expensive in comparison to sea transportation, is more suitable for small parcels than sea transportation.
Additional Costs
There are always added costs to the main cost of shipping, which are usually factored into the initial estimates. They are:
- Insurance: You might need insurance, which will add to the shipping cost.
- Custom fees: Sierra Leone’s import fees range from 15% of the full value of your items. So, your custom fees will depend on what you are shipping.
- Inspection: Your shipment might be inspected at the port, which will add to the cost.
- General Rate Increase (GRI): If the shipping route is particularly popular or dangerous, the shipping rate might be increased.
- Delivery Times: If you need shorter than average delivery times, you might have to pay a premium.
What’s Next?
Looking at all these factors and added costs, it is clear that you need professional help. Call Three Movers for help at (888) 202-0036 for a free quote.
Find Cargo Containers For Freight Transport & Relocation
Frequently Asked Questions
Pricing is driven by the container size (20 ft or 40 ft), route demand, fuel surcharges, port handling fees, and container service charges. Costs also vary by cargo weight, packing needs, hazardous goods rules, and whether you book an FCL or LCL load. Seasonal congestion at Freetown Port and documentation accuracy also influence final rates. For broader international pricing guidance, see our international moving costs.
Most U.S.–Sierra Leone ocean freight shipments arrive in 28–45 days, depending on the port of origin, transshipment points, and carrier schedules. FCL tends to move faster because it requires less consolidation handling. LCL adds time due to deconsolidation at destination. Weather, customs inspections, and billing completeness can extend timelines. For global transit planning, our moving overseas shipping costs guide provides helpful context.
Shipments typically require a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and any necessary export filings. Sierra Leone customs may request product-specific certificates or permits depending on the commodity. Accurate values, HS codes, and consignee details reduce clearance delays. These requirements apply to both FCL and LCL shipments and must match carrier and port records.
A bill of lading is a binding transport document confirming cargo ownership, shipment details, and delivery terms. It includes container numbers, weights, consignee information, and any special handling notes. Customs in Sierra Leone uses the BOL to validate cargo classification and duty calculation. Accurate data helps limit inspections and avoid holds at Freetown Port.
FCL containers remain sealed from origin to destination, reducing handling and shortening travel times. LCL shipments require consolidation and deconsolidation with other consignees’ cargo, adding 3–10 days at intermediate ports. Congestion at transshipment hubs can extend LCL schedules. FCL is typically recommended for time-sensitive or high-value goods.
Cargo insurance is essential because ocean carriers’ liability is limited under maritime law. Coverage protects against loss, water exposure, theft, and handling damage from port operations. Sierra Leone’s tropical climate and frequent rainy seasons make moisture protection especially relevant. Shippers should match coverage to cargo value and verify policy terms before container loading.
Prohibited categories may include certain chemicals, hazardous materials, controlled drugs, telecommunications equipment, and restricted food products. Some electronics, alcohol, and personal goods may require permits or inspection. Listing accuracy on the packing list helps prevent customs holds. Always confirm current regulations with Sierra Leone customs or your freight agent before loading.
A designated adult can sign delivery documents, but being present is recommended to choose safe placement and verify container condition. For door-to-door moves, clear driveway access, turning radius, and overhead clearance are essential. If you’re coordinating with additional labor, our shipping container movers overview explains typical equipment and space requirements.
