How to Import Used Cars in Jamaica

Buying a brand new car is a dream of every eye but when it comes about, many people can’t afford new cars. In this case, people avail the option of buying used cars to save cost. Japanese used car industry is one of the largest used car industries of the world and it has its continuously growing clientele all around.

Japanese used car are being imported almost everywhere in the world because these are well known for their reliability, durability and economical prices. Jamaica along with other Caribbean countries prefers importing used Japanese cars as it is really simple and easy to import these over there. According to statistic, almost 90 percent of cars imported in Jamaica are from Japan.

IMPORT REGULATORY BODY OF JAMAICA:

Jamaica has a government authority named “Trade Board Limited” which mainly deals with the import of cars. According to the regulations of any vehicle imported to Jamaica should be registered, insured and worthy enough to drive on roads. There are certain other document restrictions and tax policy which is provided below.

VEHICLE YEAR RESTRICTION POLICY:

Conventional cars like sedans, SUVs etc of more than five years old could not be imported in Jamaica and for larger vehicles like pickups, trucks etc age limit vary from six to ten years.

Modified or special purpose vehicles like ambulance, fire trucks or city cars also have a policy of 10 years.

DOCUMENTATION:

1- Import license should be acquired from the relevant body before importing any vehicle.

2- Evidence of purchase that is a certificate of title issued by the government of the country from where the car is being imported.

3-Identity proofs like a national identity card or driving license etc are required.

4- Other essential documents include BOL, Invoice, Bill of Sight, NTN etc.

5- Tax compliance certificate is also necessary.

IMPORT DUTIES AND TAXES:

Import duties and taxes are the most important part of any import while importing Japanese used vehicles to Jamaica some taxes and import duty apply.

Import duty varies based on the type, size and fuel consumption of the vehicle. It ranges from 10% to 40%.

GCT of 17.5 percent applies on each imported vehicle. Zero-rated vehicles are exceptions.

CET (Common external tariff of 10-20% apply on different vehicles.

CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS:

After clearing vehicle from the port it is certified by a government authority to ensure that imported vehicle meets Jamaican standards.

OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS:

LHDs could be imported in Jamaica. Every Jamaican is entitled to import 2 vehicles in 3 years. Immigrants can import after having proper immigration documentation.

JAMAICAN PORTS:

Kingston is the most recommended port for shipments from Japan to Jamaica. Roro (Roll-on Roll-off) is the most preferred method.

VIEW ALL JAPANESE USED CARS STOCK FOR JAMAICA