Importation of Japanese Used Vehicles to Jamaica
Jamaica-based dealers and approved private importers may import right-hand-drive used vehicles from Japan, provided they comply with the Jamaica Customs Agency's (JCA) age restrictions for each vehicle category. Non-dealer importers are additionally required to obtain an Import Licence from the Trade Board Limited.
Right-hand-drive-native Japanese supply for the Jamaican market, with Japan-side auction and fixed-price inventory and export coordination to Kingston
Can Vehicles Be Imported from Japan to Jamaica?
Jamaica permits the importation of used Japanese vehicles by registered dealers and approved private importers. As a right-hand-drive market, Jamaica aligns well with Japanese vehicle specifications. The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) enforces an age-limit schedule that varies by vehicle category, and non-dealer importers are generally required to obtain an Import Licence from the Trade Board Limited.
Who can buy?
- Motor vehicle dealers licensed in Jamaica are permitted to import vehicles for the purpose of resale.
- Private importers approved and licensed by Trade Board Limited (typically permitted to import up to two vehicles every three years)
- If you are a returning resident, your vehicle import is handled under a separate approval process with the Trade Board Limited.
Things to Keep in Mind
- These vehicles are already right-hand drive, making them road-ready for Jamaica with no expensive LHD conversions needed.
- Import age restrictions differ by vehicle type: passenger cars are typically capped at 5 years old, pickups at 6 years, special-purpose vehicles at 10 years, and trucks or heavy equipment at up to 30 years. Verify the latest schedule with the JCA before buying.
- Importers who aren't licensed dealers typically need an Import Licence issued by Trade Board Limited, while returning residents go through a separate process. Verify your eligibility before making any commitments.
Key Regulations for Vehicle Importation to Jamaica
- Check that the vehicle's age and category comply with the JCA age-limit schedule prior to bidding — the published categories allow 5 years for passenger vehicles, 6 for pickups, 10 for special-purpose vehicles, and as much as 30 for heavy equipment.
- Non-registered dealers must obtain an Import Licence from Trade Board Limited before buying — the licence specifies both the vehicle category and the number of units you're allowed to import.
- At Kingston customs clearance, you'll need to pay import duty, GCT (General Consumption Tax), SCT (Special Consumption Tax), and any other charges administered by the JCA.
- You'll generally need the following documents: the original Japanese export certificate, Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, and the Trade Board Import Licence (where required).
- Your vehicle must be road-ready and in good condition. Keep in mind that officials may inspect it during clearance at the port and when you go to register it.
If you’re a returning resident, you might be allowed to import an older vehicle than usual, provided you can prove past ownership and secure Trade Board approval. Keep in mind that Jamaican vehicle taxes are high, so always double-check your total estimated costs with a local customs broker before you buy.
Shipping & Delivery to Jamaica
- Transit Time: ~6–8 weeks from Japan to Kingston (usually involves transhipment).
- Shipping Type: RoRo for standard single units; Container shipping for specialty, high-value, or bundled orders.
- Our Responsibility (Japan): ROBUST AUTO coordinates inland transport to the Japanese export port after purchase.
- Your Responsibility (Jamaica): Customs clearance, duty/tax payments, and final vehicle pickup in Kingston are arranged by you or your local clearing agent.
Important Notes on Required Paperwork
- The original Japanese Export Certificate (De-registration Certificate) is provided as standard documentation with every dispatched vehicle shipment.
- The Bill of Lading is generated by the designated shipping line, and the corresponding Commercial Invoice is provided by Robust Auto for customs clearance purposes.
- Acquisition of the Trade Board Import Licence remains the sole responsibility of the importer (where required) and must be secured prior to vehicle arrival for clearance processing.
HOW TO BUY FROM JAPANESE AUCTION
Buying directly from Japanese auctions gives you access to the best selection and lowest prices.
This is the primary source where Japanese car dealers get their stock.
EXPLORE OUR CURRENT VEHICLE INVENTORY
We maintain a small selection of vehicles currently in inventory.
Each car has been inspected and verified by Robust Auto and is ready for immediate export.