Introduction For residents of Tonga, importing a used car from Japan offers an opportunity to acquire reliable vehicles at a fraction of the cost of buying new. This guide explains the process, regulations, and costs involved in importing a Japanese used car to Tonga.
Regulations and Requirements
Age Restriction
- Tonga does not impose any age restrictions on imported used vehicles. However, only right-hand drive vehicles are allowed to be imported.
Shipping Details
- Destination Port: Nukualofa is the main entry point for imported vehicles.
- Shipping Duration: Typically, it takes about 21-25 days for vehicles to be shipped via Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) services.
- Shipping Frequency: Vessels depart on a weekly schedule.
- Shipping Line: Pacific Forum Line is commonly used for these shipments.
Customs and Importation Fees
Taxation Based on Engine Capacity and Vehicle Age
- For vehicles less than 10 years old:
- Up to 1500cc: 50 cents per cc
- Between 1500-3000cc: 75 cents per cc
- Exceeding 3000cc: $1 per cc
- For vehicles older than 10 years:
- Up to 1500cc: 25 cents per cc
- Between 1500-3000cc: 38 cents per cc
- Exceeding 3000cc: 50 cents per cc
Documentation Required
- Commercial Invoice: Shows the purchase price and details of the transaction.
- Bill of Lading (BL): Acts as a receipt for the shipment and a contract for the transportation of the car.
- Export Certificate: Demonstrates that the vehicle was legally exported from Japan.
- Additional documents may be required by Tongan customs for specific cases.
Choosing a Reputable Exporter Working with a reputable exporter is crucial to ensure a smooth import process. Recommended Japanese used car exporters include:
- SBT Co. Ltd.
- Be Forward
- EVERY Co., Ltd.
- Qualitex Trading
- Autorec Enterprise Ltd.
These firms are known for their reliability, offering extensive inventories and excellent customer service. They can also assist with the necessary documentation and shipping arrangements.
Top Recommended Japanese Used Car Export Companies for International Customers
Conclusion Importing a used car from Japan to Tonga is straightforward, especially with no age restrictions and the simplicity of tax calculations based on engine capacity. By selecting a reliable exporter and preparing for the import costs and documentation, you can enjoy the benefits of a high-quality vehicle at a competitive price. Whether for personal use or business, a Japanese used car can be an excellent investment in Tonga.
If you want to know more details about Japanese used vehicle exporting, please refer to Wikipedia.