No Age Limit for Imported Vehicles
One of the benefits of importing used cars to Thailand from Japan is the absence of age restrictions. This flexibility allows for a wide range of vehicle choices, ensuring that you can find the perfect car to meet your needs and preferences.
Shipping Ports
The primary ports for vehicle shipment in Thailand are Bangkok and Laem Chabang. These ports are well-equipped to handle the import of used cars, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Shipment Time
The typical shipment time for a RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessel from Japan to Thailand is approximately 14-19 days. This relatively short shipping period allows for quicker delivery of your vehicle.
Vessel Schedule
RoRo vessels operate on a monthly schedule, providing regular opportunities to import your vehicle from Japan to Thailand.
Shipping Line
Thailand Star Shipping is a reliable option for transporting your used car from Japan. This shipping line ensures your vehicle is handled with care throughout the journey.
No Inspection Required
Importing used cars to Thailand does not require a pre-shipment inspection, simplifying the import process and reducing associated costs.
Right-Hand Drive Vehicles
Thailand permits the importation of right-hand-drive vehicles, which is ideal for cars sourced from Japan. This compatibility ensures that the vehicle can be used safely and legally on Thai roads.
Temporary Import of Personal Vehicles
Thailand allows for the temporary import of personal vehicles, including motor vehicles, motorcycles, yachts, sports boats, and fishing vessels, for a short visit. Tax and duty relief are granted provided the vehicles are re-exported within 1-2 months, but not exceeding six months.
Import Duties and Taxes in Thailand
- Import Duty: 80% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
- VAT: 7% of the CIF value.
- Interior Tax: 10% of the Excise tax.
Clearance Procedures for Temporary Imports
- Submission of Documents: Importers or agents must submit the Declaration Form and all supporting documents to the Customs office at the port of entry. All fittings, accessories, passengers, and accompanying luggage must be declared at the time of entry.
- Verification and Deposit: Customs verifies the documents and sets up a cash deposit or bank guarantee covering the full amount of liable taxes and duties.
- Inspection and Release: Customs inspects the vehicle and personal goods, then returns a copy of the Simplified Goods Declaration to the importer or agent.
Deposit of Guarantee
Importers are allowed to deposit a guarantee in the form of a cash deposit or a bank guarantee. If unable to provide a guarantee, importers may request an embassy-issued letter for self-guarantee approval.
Criteria for Permanent Import of Used Vehicles
- Eligibility: Importers are eligible to import only ONE used vehicle for personal use.
- Non-residents: Must stay in Thailand for at least ONE year and present a non-immigrant visa and a work permit at the time of importation.
- Thai Residents Marrying Foreigners: Must present marriage documentation and proof of residence change to Thailand, owning the vehicle for at least one and a half years while abroad.
- Thai Residents: Allowed to import a vehicle only when accompanied by the owner during a change of residence, owning the vehicle for at least one and a half years while abroad.
Required Documents for Import
- Original certificate of registration
- Importer’s passport
- Invoice or receipt proving purchase
- Insurance documentation
- Customs declaration
- Import Good Declaration (along with 3 copies)
- Bill of Lading
- A work permit, valid for at least one year
Recommended Japanese Used Car Exporters
Top Recommended Japanese Used Car Export Companies for International Customers
- SBT Co. Ltd.
- Be Forward
- EVERY Co., Ltd.
- Qualitex Trading
- Autorec Enterprise Ltd.
By following these guidelines and ensuring all required documents are prepared, importing a used car from Japan to Thailand can be a straightforward and rewarding process. Enjoy the benefits of driving a high-quality Japanese used vehicle on the roads of Thailand.
If you want to know more details about Japanese used vehicle exporting, please refer to Wikipedia.