In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in interest in exporting used machinery from Europe to Egypt. At KADOR, we’ve had the opportunity to carry out several large projects involving export packaging and preparation for transport of entire production lines relocated to Egypt. 

This trend is not coincidental. More and more corporations are closing facilities in Central Europe and relocating machinery to Egypt, where labor and energy costs are lower, the government offers investment incentives, and access to Middle Eastern and African markets is easier. 

In over 80% of our shipments to Egypt, the machinery was moved within the same capital group – from production plants in Central Europe to new locations in Egypt. 

Why Egypt? 

Egypt attracts industrial investors for several reasons: 

• Lower labor and energy costs – resulting in reduced operational expenses. 
• Devaluation of the Egyptian pound – increases the attractiveness of investing in used machinery. 
• Investment policy – Egypt actively encourages production relocation, offering support and tax relief. 
• Logistics – Egyptian ports and the Suez Canal create strategic connections with Europe, Asia, and Africa. 

In practice, relocating machinery to Egypt is not only cost-effective but also logistically feasible. 

Key Challenge: ACID System 

Since 2021, Egypt has implemented the Advanced Cargo Information Declaration (ACID) system, which applies to all imports, including used machinery. In KADOR projects, ACID has been one of the most critical elements in logistics and export planning. 

How it works: 

• The importer in Egypt registers the cargo in the system and obtains an ACID number. 
• The exporter must be registered and submit documents. 
• The ACID number must appear on the invoice and all transport documents. 
• Shipping lines will not allow container loading unless the ACID number is included. 
• The ACID code must be ready at least 48 hours before loading. 
• Missing or inconsistent ACID data can result in shipment delays or additional costs. 

Used Machinery = Additional Requirements 

In addition to standard documentation, used machinery often requires: 

• Technical certificates confirming condition, year of manufacture, and serial numbers. 
• Pre-shipment inspections by authorized entities. 
• Data consistency across all documents – invoice, packing list, and bill of lading must contain identical information. 

Role of Packaging, Container Stowage, and VGM 

While ACID is the main formal challenge, the success of the project also depends on technical execution. Our experience shows: 

• Export packaging must meet maritime transport requirements and protect machinery during long voyages. 
• Container stowage requires expertise to optimize space and ensure equipment safety. 
• VGM (Verified Gross Mass) – mandatory confirmation of container weight must be performed by an authorized entity. At KADOR, we provide container weighing in compliance with SOLAS regulations, essential for maritime clearance. 

Coordinating dismantling, packaging, loading, and reassembly at the new location is crucial when relocating entire production lines. 

Teamwork is Key 

Exporting machinery is rarely a solo project. It requires efficient collaboration and communication between all involved parties: exporter, importer, dismantling teams, logistics providers, packaging companies, and customs advisors. 

It’s this teamwork that determines whether the project runs smoothly – especially in large, multi-stage relocations. In a recently completed project involving 130 containers to Egypt, every element was carefully planned and executed by an international team of specialists. 

Currently, we are preparing another shipment to Egypt – confirming that Egypt remains an active export destination. 

Summary 

Egypt is an attractive destination for used machinery – both for companies relocating production and exporters seeking new markets. Success depends on: 

• Understanding formal requirements (ACID, CargoX, certificates), 
• Close cooperation with the importer, 
• Ensuring professional packaging and container stowage. 

At KADOR, we understand how crucial proper preparation of machinery and documentation is. Our mission is to ensure the equipment arrives safely and is ready for operation – allowing exporters to focus on the formal and business aspects. 

Planning to export machinery to Egypt? Contact the KADOR team – we’ll assist with packaging, documentation, and logistics.