Are you thinking about importing a used car from Japan to Guyana?
One of the first questions many people ask is:
“Who can import a used vehicle into Guyana?”
The good news is that importing a vehicle is not limited to large car dealerships. Individuals, businesses, and vehicle dealers can import vehicles, depending on their circumstances.
However, importers must still complete the required customs procedures, provide the necessary documents, pay applicable duties and taxes, and meet Guyana’s vehicle import and registration requirements.
1. Individual Buyers
Individuals living in Guyana can import used vehicles from Japan for personal use. You do not need to own a car dealership.
Whether you want a Toyota, Honda, Nissan, or another Japanese vehicle, you must still complete the required customs and registration procedures.
Common documents include:
- Invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
- Valid identification
- Customs documents
The importer or a licensed Customhouse Broker can process the customs declaration through ASYCUDA World.
After arrival, the vehicle must also be registered in Guyana.
2. Used-Car Dealers and Businesses
Used-car dealers can import vehicles directly from Japan to build their inventory.
They can source vehicles from Japanese auctions based on:
- Make and model
- Year
- Mileage
- Engine size
- Condition
- Auction grade
- Budget
- Expected resale value
Businesses importing vehicles for resale should make sure their customs, tax, and business requirements are properly arranged.
3. Companies and Other Legal Entities
A company or other legal entity can also import or receive a vehicle.
GRA’s ASYCUDA documentation explains that the TIN associated with the importer or consignee is required for an import declaration. The consignee’s name and address are also recorded as part of the customs declaration.
If you are importing vehicles through a company, it is important that the company information, TIN, invoice, Bill of Lading and customs declaration are consistent.
4. Do You Need to Be a Car Dealer?
Not necessarily.
An individual can import a vehicle for personal use without owning a dealership.
However, if you regularly import vehicles for resale, you should ensure that your business and tax arrangements are properly established and comply with commercial import requirements.
The key difference is between:
Importing a vehicle for personal use and Regularly importing vehicles for resale as a business.
If you are unsure which category applies to you, consult the GRA or a licensed Customhouse Broker.
5. Do You Need a Special Import License ?
Not every used-car import requires a separate “car import license.”
However, applicable permits or licenses may be required depending on the type of import and current regulations.
For a standard used vehicle import, make sure you have the required customs documents and TIN and that the vehicle meets the applicable requirements.
Because regulations can change, always confirm the current requirements before purchasing.
6. Do You Need a Custom House Broker?
You can work with a licensed Custom House Broker to help with customs clearance.
A broker can assist with:
- Customs declarations
- ASYCUDA procedures
- Documentation
- Duty and tax calculations
- Communication with Customs
- Customs clearance
For first-time importers, an experienced broker can make the process easier.
Your Japanese exporter handles the Japan-side procedures, while your local broker can assist with the Guyana-side customs process.
7. Check Vehicle Requirements Before Buying
Being eligible to import does not mean every vehicle can be imported under every circumstance.
The vehicle must also meet Guyana’s applicable requirements.
GRA currently states that vehicles over eight years old are allowed to enter Guyana. The previous restriction was removed effective October 1, 2020.
Duties and taxes can vary depending on factors such as age, engine capacity, vehicle type, and usage. Always check the estimated total import cost before purchasing.
8. What Do You Generally Need?
Depending on the circumstances, importers should be prepared for documents such as:
- Valid identification
- TIN
- Vehicle invoice
- Bill of Lading
- Vehicle registration or cancellation documents, where applicable
- Customs declaration
- Vehicle Inspection Certificate, where applicable
- Other documents required by Customs or relevant authorities
For vehicles shipped to Guyana from February 1, 2025 onward, a Vehicle Inspection Certificate is required as part of the customs declaration process and must be uploaded with the relevant documents in ASYCUDA World.
Therefore, the import process should be planned before the vehicle leaves Japan.
9. You Don’t Have to Handle the Japan-Side Process Yourself
One advantage of working with a Japanese used-car exporter is that you do not need to travel to Japan or visit an auction yourself.
Simply tell your exporter what you are looking for, for example:
“I’m looking for a Toyota Harrier, 2021 or newer, under 60,000 km, with a budget of USD XX,XXX.”
The exporter can search Japanese auctions for suitable vehicles.
The Japan-side process can include:
Japanese Auction → Vehicle Purchase → Pre-Shipment Inspection → Export Documents → Port → RoRo or Container Shipping → Guyana
The importer or local Customs Broker handles the Guyana-side customs procedures.
Who Can Benefit from Importing Japanese Used Cars?
Personal Buyers
Import directly to access a wider selection of Japanese vehicles.
Used-Car Dealers
Source vehicles from Japanese auctions based on customer demand and build inventory.
Vehicle Trading Businesses
Regularly source different models and specifications from Japan.
First-Time Importers
Even if you have never imported before, a Japanese exporter and local Customhouse Broker can help manage the process.
The key is to understand your responsibilities before purchasing.
Ready to Import a Used Car from Japan?
Importing a used car from Japan to Guyana is possible for individuals and businesses, provided the required customs, tax, inspection, and registration requirements are met.
You do not need to travel to Japan or visit a Japanese auction.
A reliable Japanese exporter can help you find a suitable vehicle, handle the Japan-side procedures, and arrange shipment to Guyana.
Before purchasing, always check the vehicle’s eligibility, estimated duties and taxes, shipping costs, and other import expenses.
Looking for a Used Car from Japan?
Tell us what you are looking for:
Make / Model → Year → Budget → Mileage → Specifications
We can help you search Japanese auctions and arrange the process from vehicle purchase in Japan to shipment to Guyana.
Contact us today and start sourcing your next Japanese used car.
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