UNET

Import Regulations in South Africa for Japan Used Cars

Restriction in Number of Years:
No Age Limit
Shipping Ports:
Durban
Shipment Time:
RoRo(24-34 Days)
Shipping Schedule:
RoRo (Monthly)
Shipping Line:
The Keihin Co. Ltd.
Inspection:
No Inspection
Right-hand-drive used Japanese vehicles are allowed for import in South Africa as per the current legislation. Left-hand drive vehicles that are not registered with RSA before 23rd July 2004 are not allowed for usage in South Africa.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE IMPORT OF VEHICLES
Documents required for the import of Japan used vehicles in South Africa are:
  • Passport (copy stating the most recent entry and the exit of 12 months or more)
  • Registration and de-registration certificates
  • Invoices
  • Bill of Lading
  • A document stating the date of delivery of the vehicle
  • A document stating the date when the shipment was handed over to the shipper
  • Import permit
  • Export certificate
  • Commercial invoice
  • Certificate of inspection
  • MOT certificate
  • Letter of Authority
  • DA304A Form (completed)
  • Permanent residence permit (for immigrants issued by the Department of Home Affairs)
  • Proof of emigration, permanent residence in abroad, and withdrawal of residence from abroad (for returning residents)
Guidelines for importing Japan used cars in South Africa:
  • The importer must have an import permit. Import permits are delivered to addresses in South Africa only. The permits are issued under specific circumstances only.
  • Used cars from Japan are not allowed to be imported for commercial usage.
  • Before the purchase of the vehicle, authorization is required.
  • The vehicle to be imported should not be available in South Africa otherwise. There is a limitation put forth for the import of used vehicles to protect the motor vehicle industry in South Africa.
  • Returning nationals and immigrants having a permanent residence in South Africa are allowed to import used vehicles in the country.
  • A letter of authority from the South African Bureau of Standards is necessary for importing used Japanese vehicles.
  • Cars such as vintage cars, inherited cars, racing cars, specially designed vehicles, or vintage special vehicles are allowed for import in South Africa.
  • More details can be found with the International Trade Administration Commission(ITAC).
TAXATION
  • 30% of Customs duty will be imposed on the import of the used vehicles.
  • For vehicles that are 20 years old and above, 20% of customs duty will be applicable.
  • 0.75% to 20% of ad valorem customs duty depending on the value of the vehicle.
  • 15% of Value Added Tax (VAT).
An original commercial or purchase invoice can be obtained from the Japanese used car exporters in case it is not available.
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