What Types of Used Cars Can Be Imported into Guyana from Japan?

If you are planning to import a used car from Japan to Guyana, one of the first questions is:

“What kind of vehicle can I import?”

Japan offers a wide range of used vehicles, including compact cars, sedans, SUVs, vans, pickups and hybrids. However, before buying from a Japanese auction, it is important to understand Guyana’s requirements.

Vehicle age, engine capacity, type, documentation, inspection requirements and taxes can all affect the import process and total cost.

This article explains the key points to check before purchasing a used vehicle from Japan.

Used Cars Can Be Imported into Guyana

Guyana does not currently have a general rule prohibiting older used vehicles.

The previous restriction on importing vehicles eight years old or older was removed effective October 1, 2020. Older used vehicles can therefore be imported, subject to applicable customs, tax, inspection and other requirements.

However, older vehicles may be subject to different tax calculations, so the total import cost should always be checked before purchase.

Cars, Vans, SUVs and Pickups

Guyana’s motor vehicle import rules cover various vehicle types, including:

• Passenger cars
• Vans
• SUVs
• Pickup trucks
• Buses
• Other motor vehicles

Customs duty, excise tax and VAT can vary depending on the vehicle type and specifications. Engine capacity, age, fuel type and vehicle classification can all affect the final cost.

This means two vehicles with similar auction prices can have very different costs after arriving in Guyana.

Engine Capacity Is Important

Engine capacity, measured in cubic centimetres (cc), is an important factor when importing a vehicle.

For vehicles under four years old, GRA’s current motor vehicle tax guide applies different tax rates based on engine capacity, including categories such as up to 1,000cc, 1,001–1,500cc, 1,501–1,800cc, 1,801–2,000cc, 2,001–3,000cc and above 3,000cc.

Vehicles four years old and older are subject to a different tax calculation.

Therefore, checking the engine size before purchasing is essential, especially if you want to keep import costs reasonable.

Vehicle Age Affects the Cost

Although older vehicles are not generally prohibited because of their age, vehicle age can affect how customs duties and taxes are calculated.

GRA defines a vehicle as “four years old” based on the 48 months or four calendar years immediately preceding January 1 of the year of importation.

Therefore, when comparing vehicles at a Japanese auction, consider more than the purchase price. A cheaper older vehicle may not necessarily have the lower total landed cost.

Hybrid Vehicles

apan has a large selection of hybrid vehicles, including models from Toyota, Honda and other manufacturers.

Guyana’s current tax measures also provide specific treatment for certain hybrids. From February 16, 2026, hybrid vehicles not exceeding 2,000cc are listed among supplies exempt from VAT under the applicable 2026 measures.

However, treatment can depend on the vehicle’s specifications and classification, so the specific vehicle should always be checked before purchase.

Double-Cab Pickups

Double-cab pickups are popular for both personal and commercial use, especially when additional cargo capacity is needed.

Current 2026 tax measures provide specific treatment for double-cab pickups based on engine capacity, including specific excise tax and VAT treatment for certain engine sizes.

Importers should therefore check the current rules before purchasing a pickup from Japan.

The Vehicle Must Have the Correct Documents

The vehicle is only one part of the import process. Proper documentation is also essential.

For motor vehicle imports, GRA lists documents such as:

• Invoice
• Bill of Lading
• Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
• Customs declaration through ASYCUDA
• Applicable permits or licences
• Other supporting documents where required

Vehicle registration in Guyana may also require the original invoice, Bill of Lading, manufacturer or salvage certificate, customs declaration and valid identification.

An experienced exporter can help ensure that the vehicle information and export documents are correctly prepared in Japan.

Pre-Shipment Inspection Is Required

nother important requirement is the Vehicle Inspection Certificate.

Effective February 1, 2025, the required Vehicle Inspection Certificate must be uploaded with the relevant documents in ASYCUDA when processing the customs declaration for applicable used motor vehicle imports.

The inspection therefore needs to be arranged before the vehicle is shipped from Japan.

A professional Japanese exporter can help coordinate the inspection and other Japan-side procedures before shipment.

Check the Vehicle Specifications Before You Bid

The cheapest vehicle is not always the best vehicle to import.

Before bidding, check:

✓ Vehicle age
✓ Engine capacity
✓ Fuel type
✓ Vehicle type
✓ Mileage
✓ Vehicle condition
✓ Auction grade
✓ Customs duties and taxes
✓ Shipping cost
✓ Inspection requirements
✓ Expected selling price in Guyana

Considering these factors before bidding can help prevent a vehicle that looks inexpensive in Japan from becoming expensive after shipping and customs clearance.

What Are Good Vehicles to Import from Japan?

There is no single “best” vehicle for every importer. The right choice depends on your budget, intended use and demand in the Guyanese market.

Compact Cars

Smaller vehicles can be attractive because of their fuel efficiency, size and potentially lower import costs.

Sedans

Japanese sedans offer many options for personal use and resale.

SUVs

SUVs are suitable for buyers looking for more space and versatility.

Hybrid Vehicles

Japanese hybrids offer fuel-efficient options, although their tax treatment should be checked for each specific vehicle.

Pickups

Pickups can be suitable for businesses, commercial users and customers who need additional cargo capacity.

The key is not simply choosing a popular model, but choosing a vehicle that makes sense based on its total landed cost in Guyana.

Import the Right Vehicle from Japan

Importing a used car from Japan gives Guyanese buyers access to a wide range of vehicles.

Before purchasing, check the vehicle’s age, engine capacity, type, condition, documentation and expected import costs.

While Guyana allows a wide range of used vehicles to be imported, taxes and procedures can vary depending on the vehicle’s specifications.

A reliable Japanese exporter can help you search Japanese auctions, check vehicle information, arrange the required inspection, prepare export documents and organize shipping to Guyana.

Looking for a Specific Japanese Vehicle?

Tell us what you are looking for:

Make / Model → Year → Engine Size → Budget → Specifications

We can help you search Japanese auctions for suitable vehicles and calculate the costs before you purchase.

Find the right Japanese used car for the Guyanese market and start your import journey today.