Import rules and regulations for Japanese used vehicles in Cook Islands

Acquiring a car is not like walking in the park. It requires a lot of planning and thinking. Many people can’t afford to buy a new vehicle because of their financial limitation and as a result go with a used one since it is one of the most convenient routes to a vehicle ownership. Japan is a pioneer of automobile industry is known for exportation of vehicles. Almost all countries across the world import vehicles from Japan. Along with new vehicles, used vehicles from Japan are exported to many countries across the world. Like other markets, Cook Islands is a good market for Japanese used cars.

Japanese vehicles imported in the country are subjected to duties and taxes to manage the import process. Even the import regulations imposed are not very strict. It just requires proper awareness of all import rules and regulations. Large numbers of vehicles can be seen on the roads of the country. The market of used vehicles from Japan is increasing everyday at very steady rate. Many people in Cook Islands import used Japanese vehicles. There is no age restriction on used vehicles imported. However, vehicle imported should be right hand drive vehicles.

Documents Required:-

• Invoice receipt showing total price paid and date of purchase
• Passport
• Invoice showing export costs (Japan)
• Invoice showing freight costs and insurance to Cook Islands
• De-registration Certificate
• Bill of Lading
• Odometer reading at time of sale for export to Cook Islands
• Odometer reading at time of importation into Cook Islands

Taxation in Cook Islands:-
After importing the vehicle, used vehicle importer is not allowed to sell the vehicle within two years of importation. Used vehicles imported in the country are subjected to import taxes depending upon the age of the vehicle. Along with import taxes, VAT is also imposed on vehicles.

Shipping Ports:-
Major shipping ports for shipment of used vehicles in Cook Islands are Arutanga harbor, Avatiu harbor and Arorangi Jetty. RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) shipment method is used generally for vehicle shipment. While on request of customers, another more safe yet expensive method of shipment, container shipment method is used for vehicle shipment.