Transporters 

The Benin Central Union of the Transporters is the main union in the country. The number of trucks in the country is sufficient for the local market. It is important to note that some transporters might not accept to operate on certain routes during the rainy season.  

In Benin, the transporters sector is under the supervision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT). The MIT has the mission to develop and ensure the implementation and monitoring-evaluation of the general policy of the State in matters of land, sea and fluvio-lagoon, and aerial transport as well as public works and other infrastructures, in accordance with the laws and regulations in place in the Republic of Benin. The main objectives of MIT are:  

• To initiate and conduct reflections and studies contributing to the definition of national policy and the implementation of strategies and actions related to its areas of competence.  

• To develop and ensure compliance with technical standards and regulations in all areas of its competence.  

• to assist local communities in the design, organization and management of activities in their areas of competence.  

• To ensure the planning, organization, monitoring and control of all actions in its areas of competence for the establishment and maintenance of transport infrastructure and the accessibility of people to basic services.  

• To promote and supervise professions related to transport and public works.  

• To contribute to the protection of the marine coast and the development of the fluvio-lagoon banks in the constant concern of integrated economic development and ecological preservation.  

• To monitor and evaluate the implementation of international and regional conventions and agreements relating to road, rail, air and public works transport.  

There are primarily transport companies for the account of Goods, Cotton and Hinterlands Transit Companies and oil distribution companies. In addition, other transporters and drivers either obtain a direct contract or through several brokers associations and individuals to sub-contract the transport contracts of the firms. This more informal category of transporters is less organised though has recourse to local transporter associations or unions that monopolize the market, share and offer cargo to their members. In Cotonou Port and in different public markets, they are more visible than the formal transporters. Most of the local transport capacity in the country is from transporters referred to as 'les demarcheurs', who do not sometimes accept the affiliation and system set up by the trade union - the equipment and service of these carriers is often poor.  

Some transporters overload since there are few weighing bridges in the country. 

The time of cotton harvest in the north of the country has a big impact on the truck’s availability.  The farmers and merchants are using the cheapest trucks owned by individuals or some small companies. Trucks suitable for their transport are mainly from 25 to 35 mt or less due to tricky road conditions from different locations (especially in the northwest and centre). It is difficult for heavier trucks (over 20 mt) to use many of the secondary and tertiary roads during the rainy season. 

Transporter Contact List here. 

A sample list of the transporting companies in Benin 

Disclaimer: Inclusion of company information in the LCA does not imply any business relationship between the supplier and WFP / Logistics Cluster, and is used solely as a determinant of services, and capacities.  

Please note: WFP / Logistics Cluster maintain complete impartiality and are not in a position to endorse, comment on any company's suitability as a reputable service provider.