Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping costs vary based on the size, weight, and category of cargo. Our pricing is transparent and competitive, and we offer seasonal discounts in subsequent shipments to support our diaspora family.

Our current drop-off location is at 14719 Bayham Dr., Unit 3, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 4G8. Please, we strongly encourage you to call us before dropping off. Regional pickups are also available based on pre-alerts and structured routes. We are aligning our operations to enable drop-off points in locations near you.

We can arrange a pickup at your location for a fee — subject to change based on distance and cargo size. Regional pickups are also available based on pre-alerts and, structured routes. Picked up cargo must comply with strict restrictions for certain cargo. We are aligning our operations to enable drop-off points in major Canadian cities.

We ship every 4 to 6 months or more frequently depending on volume and port schedules. We notify customers such as Zambian Diaspora of the shipping calendar in advance and provide timely status updates.

Shipping time from Canada to Lusaka generally takes 8 to 12 weeks, including customs clearance and port handling. We will notify you of the location status of your tracked shipment all the way including when your shipment is received at our Lusaka distribution hub.

We accept personal effects, household goods, electronics, clothing, non-perishable food items, and small business cargo. All items must comply with Canadian export and Sub-Saharan import laws including Zambian import laws.

Prohibited items include firearms, explosives, flammable liquids, narcotics, counterfeit goods, fresh perishables, and any material or Items deemed hazardous by customs authorities in Canada, Sub-Saharan Africa or in Zambia.

Zambian authorities require second-hand clothes (Salaula) to be clean, fumigated, and free from contamination, often with a fumigation certificate. They strictly ban items like used underwear, socks, swimsuits, and nightwear, and bales must be clearly labelled with weight, description, and origin. Non-compliant shipments risk being rejected or destroyed.

When Zambian Authorities inspect imported food, they first check that labels are correct— showing ingredients, country of origin, expiry dates, and storage instructions — and that there is at least six months of shelf life left. They also ensure packaging is safe, with no dented or swollen cans and all dry goods properly sealed. Finally, they confirm compliance through permits or Certificates of Conformity, and may sample products for lab testing to guarantee food safety.

ZamBantu understands the needs of the Sub-Saharan customers, especially the Zambian diaspora better than anyone. We prioritize bulk shipping with empathy, offering affordable, dependable services while preserving the spirit of home in every delivery.

Yes. We offer secure packaging solutions at an additional fee for fragile or non-boxed items. Our team will assess and recommend protective QR-labeled packaging to ensure cargo integrity.

Absolutely. Each shipment is assigned a unique tracking code and accompanied by a digital receipt. You can check progress through our tracking system or request updates via WhatsApp or email.

Once your cargo clears customs and arrives at our destination distribution center, we’ll notify you immediately via SMS, WhatsApp, or email. Our Lusaka team will coordinate local delivery or pickup.

Yes! We support small business entrepreneurs in the diaspora by shipping inventory such as shoes, clothing, electronics, and more — provided it’s within permissible import regulations.

Absolutely. Most of our clients use consolidated shipping, where we bundle cargo from multiple customers into shared containers — significantly reducing overall cost per person.

One exciting on-going incentive is we have for our Zambian diaspora, family and friends is through our “Become A ZamBantun” promotion. Consolidate 1000 kilograms of cargo and get a free 100 kilograms on our next container shipping. Some conditions apply.

You can reach us via email, WhatsApp, or by phone at 1-844-3-ABANTU (1-844-322-2688). Visit our website www.zambantu.com or follow us on social media for updates, shipping schedules, and real-time support for packaging, shipping, and last mile delivery Frequently Asked Questions.