How to Import used vehicles into South Africa?

South Africa has certain regulations to import used or new vehicles. Here are some tips and information about how to import used or new vehicles into South Africa from Japan or other countries. After 2000 left hand drive vehicles are not allowed, so only right hand vehicles can be import into South Africa.

Documents needed for import of new or used Japanese or other vehicles:

For importing a new or used car into South Africa, you will have to obtain the following two important documents. So while shipping a car to Africa one must ensure that he/she has the Letter of Authority from South African Bureau of standards and a Permit for Import from ITAC. This enables the person to complete a valid car shipping process to Africa smoothly.

1. Letter of Authority from South African Bureau of Standards.

The letter of authority from South African Bureau of Standards is needed irrespective of whether the car to be imported is a new car or a used one. In other words, the letter of authority from South African Bureau of Standards is needed for importing cars manufactured outside South Africa. The LOA from SABS is needed even for importing a passenger car to South Africa. While importing car to South Africa, it is essential to match the Road Traffic Act and valid proof confirming this must be submitted to SABS.

2. A permit for import from ITAC

It is essential for all imported cars to South Africa to have import permits. For getting import permits, it is essential for a person importing a car to Africa to have permanent residence in South Africa and show the proof of the same. The applications for import permits can be filed addressed to the Director of Import and Export Control. These policies are all set and controlled by ITAC - International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa.

Followings are eligible to import used vehicles into South Africa:
1. Immigrants are eligible to import used vehicle but must have permanent residence status has been issued by the Department of Home Affairs.

2. Returning South African residents and nationals.

3. Physically- disable can import a specially designed motor vehicle which will suit the disabled person's personal requirements.
4. Inheritance: The heir must submit a copy of his/her South African ID or passport, a copy of the will, a copy of the deceased's ID or passport, a copy of the motor vehicle registration certificate in the name of the deceased and a copy of the death certificate.

5. Vintage and Collector`s vehicles must be 40 years or older.

6. Racing cars may be imported by a racing driver must submit a copy of competition racing car driver's license.
Duties to be paid varies in South Africa

1.. Immigrants may import one vehicle per family which has been used for a year duty-free, but will be required to pay 14 percent value added tax (VAT) on the import. Import permit must be obtained prior to importing the vehicle and not sell or dispose of it for two years after importation.

2. Returning residents can import car that have been used and owned in the origin country for over one year. Full duties apply unless the owner can prove they left South Africa with no intention of returning.

3. Temporary residents must pay full duties and taxes which are refundable on departure.

4. Foreign diplomats require a diplomatic certificate and are not required to pay duty.

Now that you know what you require before importing in to Africa click to used car portals like Japanese Car Trade and view thousands of vehicle stocks from 100's of reliable exporters from Japan ready to ship your desired cars at very reasonable prices.