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Import Car From Japan to Zimbabwe - Complete Guide

If we look back to the past decades, the demand of Japanese cars are increased at a high peak in Zimbabwe. This demand is more noticeable in case of used cars, because they are much better than new cars in all aspects. The used cars are cheaper, at the same time reliable, so naturally the vehicle demand is increasing day by day. That's why, we are here to inform you the necessary things related to
import car from japan to Zimbabwe. If you are a car importer, this content will help you at a certain level for sure.

Why Import a Used Car From Japan to Zimbabwe?


There are two main reasons why to import cars from japan  to Zimbabwe—


1.Japanese used cars are always reliable, best value for money. If someone wants to purchase a used car, he won't never regret for this.

2.There is actually not that strict restrictions about the age of the vehicle. Of course, you must have to pay the charges whether the car is old or new, but you don't really need to think about the vehicle's age.

Importing cars from Japan has become increasingly popular in recent years due to their high quality and affordability. Japanese automakers are renowned for their innovative technology and attention to detail, making their cars a top choice for consumers worldwide. Additionally, Japan's strict car maintenance and inspection regulations ensure top-notch cars before export.

With the help of online auction sites and export agents, importing a car from Japan has become easier and more accessible than ever before. Whether you are looking for a classic JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) car or a modern hybrid, there are plenty of options available when importing cars from Japan.

Import Car From Japan to Zimbabwe

When importing a car from Japan to Zimbabwe, there are some important things to keep in mind. First, the cost of importing a car from Japan can be quite high due to high tariffs and other import costs. Second, it is imperative to make sure that the car you are purchasing is certified for road use in Zimbabwe. Third, you will need to obtain a Zim Import Permit before bringing the car into the country.

Inspection Required


Inspection is not mandatory if you want to import vehicles in Zimbabwe. So the imported cars don't need to go through any test, making the process easier. 

Importing Used Japanese Cars - Zimbabwe Regulations


The Zimbabwe car import policy is much simpler than other countries. You can import Japanese vehicles without any major difficulty. All you need to do is to follow the rules and regulations that are so basic compared to other countries.  

Here are the laws and regulations that you will need to follow in order to import cars in Zimbabwe:

Port of Shipping 


The Japanese cars are imported to Zimbabwe through Dar-Es-Salaam of Tanzania, Walvis Bay of Namibia, or through the Maritime port of Durban of South Africa. It usually takes about 24-34 days to ship the vehicles in Zimbabwe. If you ask for the best option, including the minimal freight charges, it should be via Durban port. 

 

Port of Destination 


Durban port of South Africa

Right Hand Drive


Right hand drive cars are allowed to be imported in Zimbabwe, except ambulances and fire engines.
Left hand drive cars are also allowed to be imported in Zimbabwe. 

Vehicle Age Restrictions in Zimbabwe


The age restrictions for the used Japanese vehicles are not that strict. The maximum age of the vehicles should be 10 years old when it is imported to Zimbabwe. 
However, the vehicles of commercial transportation like haulage trucks, tractors, and other vehicles that are used for different construction work, agricultural work, or mining do not have any year restriction.


You can import cars that are more than 10 years old, too. In that case, you will have to provide an import licence for 10 year-old cars and more. 

Excise Duty


Now you will need to know how much is vehicle import duty in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe's custom duty depends on CIF ( Cost, Insurance and Freight) value that consists of Port Handling charges, VDP (Value for Duty Purposes), storage charges and other handling fees.

The duty value of vehicles in Zimbabwe:


As I've mentioned earlier, there are two ports used to import vehicles in Zimbabwe, the Durban of South Africa and Dar-Es-Salaam of Tanzania. The duty value and other rates vary for each port.


You need to provide a charge when the Japanese cars reach any port of entry in Zimbabwe. Both the tax duty and used car custom will be calculated depending on the total cost of importation. The amount of cost usually includes all the charges like purchasing, importing, delivery and other charges.


Also, the percentage of VAT and custom duty varies in different types of cars and their fuel consumption in cubic cm. If you import personal cars, the tax amount will be a little high, however, commercial vehicles will cost you a bit less.

 

Taxation in Zimbabwe 


A physical examination is carried out of each vehicle by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). After that, the value for the vehicle is determined. Also, ZIMRA has the right to accept or reject the value that is declared by the importer or clearing agent, in case of the mismatch of the true market value of the vehicle.

 
In this process, the authority considers several things, like the market value of the vehicle, the condition of the vehicle during importation, etc.   

Note: Even if you import a car as a gift, you still have to pass the valuation by ZIMRA. This is due to making sure that the vehicles are not overvalued or undervalued. Also, if you are not satisfied with the value, you can seek an appeal on the value to the regional manager or station manager.  

Documents Required

  • Zimbabwe Import Regulations
  • Immigrants Declaration
  • Passport
  • Residence Permit
  • Import license ( for 10 years old cars and more).
  • Registration document
  • Agreement of sale or invoice
  • Insurance document
  • Freight document
  • Import Tax Rates
  • Export permit and any other relevant documents

 

Cost to import car from japan to Zimbabwe

 
The total cost of importing a car from Japan to Zimbabwe depends on the VAT and duty value of the car. It varies from different models and different types of vehicle. Here I've mentioned the percentage of cost for each type of vehicle:

 

  • For engines around 1500cc or less, the import duty is 40%.
  • For vehicles that can carry 10 or more people (bus or minivan), the import duty is up tk 60%.
  • For vehicles that are used for transportation of goods, the port duty is 25-40%.
  • For vans, station wagons and other light vehicles, the import duty is 25-40%.
  • For the imported vehicles, the VAT (Value Added Tax) is 15%

 

How much to import car from japan

Importing a car from Japan can vary in cost depending on various factors such as the make and model of the car, the shipping method used, and the destination country's regulations and taxes. Generally, the cost of importing a car from Japan ranges from $1,000 to $5,000, not including any taxes or import duties that may apply.

Prior to making a purchase decision, it is important to research and understand all of the costs associated with importing a car. Additionally, it is recommended to use a reputable import agent or broker to assist with the process and ensure a smooth and legal transaction.

Import car from japan to south africa

Importing a car from Japan to South Africa has become increasingly popular in recent years due to the affordability and high-quality of Japanese cars. South Africans have been able to save money by importing their cars directly from Japan rather than purchasing them from local dealerships.

To import a car from Japan to South Africa, there are certain requirements that must be met. Firstly, the car must meet South Africa's safety and emission standards. It must also have a valid export certificate from Japan and be accompanied by all the necessary documentation such as a bill of lading and customs declaration.

Japanese car imports in south africa specialize on this sector and  offer services such as sourcing and purchasing cars from Japan, arranging shipping and customs clearance, and handling all necessary paperwork. These companies often have a wide range of Japanese cars available for import, including popular brands such as Toyota, Nissan, and Honda.

Importing a car from Japan to South Africa can be a great way to save money and get a high-quality vehicle. However, it is important to do your research and work with a reputable company to ensure a smooth and successful import process.

Japanese used cars in durban

Durban, a coastal city in South Africa, has a thriving market for Japanese used cars. These cars are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Many Durban residents prefer to purchase Japanese used cars due to their high quality and good condition. Popular models include the Toyota Corolla, Honda Fit, and Nissan Tiida. Japanese used car dealers in Durban often offer a wide variety of models at competitive prices, making them a popular choice for car buyers.

Durban is a popular destination for importing used cars from Japan. in Durban, Japanese cars are renowned for advanced technology and their reliability . With Durban's well-developed port and infrastructure, importing cars from Japan has become a convenient and cost-effective option for many South Africans


Conclusion

Japan is a great place to buy a car, and importing a car into Zimbabwe is not as difficult as one might think. If you are looking to import a car from Japan and are unsure of the process, be sure to speak with an experienced import car broker. It is really a good plan to import car from Japan to Zimbabwe, because of the increasing demand of the used Japanese vehicles. Also, the process is almost hassel free. These information will help you to get necessary steps for importation. 

Last Updated At: 30 Mar 2023
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