Import rules and regulations on Japanese used vehicles in Bahamas

Japan is the main source of automobile industry. Large numbers of Japanese vehicles are exported from Japan to almost all countries in the world every year. These vehicles are famous for their reliability, comfort and durability. Like other countries across the world, Bahamas also import used vehicles. Bahamas is one of the most prosperous countries in the Caribbean region with good per capita income. The importation of used vehicle in Bahamas is not a difficult process. There are many people, who import used cars from Japan to Bahamas. Large number of second hand cars can be seen on the roads of Bahamas.

Nowadays, it is easy to import used vehicles from Japan. There are many online used cars portals from where buyers or used vehicle importers can purchase any used vehicles of their choice. These portals provide thousands of used car stocks of most reliable and experienced used vehicle exporters in Japan. It is mandatory for the importer to abide by the rules for smooth customs clearance.

Age restriction:-
Age restriction on used vehicles imported in Bahamas from Japan is four years.

Inspection and licensing:-
As soon as the vehicle arrives in the country, it should be taken directly to the Road Traffic Department for inspection and licensing.

Left-hand drive vehicles:-
Importation of Left Hand Drive vehicles is preferred in Bahamas. Special permission is required for importation of trailers and caravans. If the vehicle imported from a right-hand drive country the headlights will need to be adjusted to left.

Documents required for customs clearance:-

• Copy of Certificate of Title and Registration
• Original Commercial/ Purchase Invoice
• Import permit

Duties and taxes:-

Used Vehicle Value	Duty	Stamp Tax
$10,000 or less	45%	7%
$10,000-$20,000	50%	7%
$20,000 or more	65%	7%

The common port in Bahamas for importation of used vehicles from Japan is Freeport and Nassau. There are two ways for vehicle shipping; one can import a vehicle using RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) method, which is an economical and most popular method, or can go for an expensive shipping method, container shipment method.