Kingston, Jamaica

Import regulations · 2026

Jamaica.
Import with clarity.

A clear overview of vehicle eligibility, inspections, documents, shipping and registration when importing from Japan to Jamaica.

15 / 16Reviewed August 2026
Before you purchase

This guide is general information, not legal, customs, tax or registration advice. Requirements can change without notice. Confirm current rules with the relevant authorities before bidding, purchasing or shipping.

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01

Can You Import a Vehicle from Japan to Jamaica?

Yes. Individuals, returning residents, businesses, and licensed motor vehicle dealers may import vehicles from Japan, provided they comply with the Motor Vehicle Import Policy administered by the Trade Board Limited (TBL) and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA).

02

Are Japanese Vehicles Popular in Jamaica?

Yes. Japanese vehicles dominate Jamaica's used vehicle market because of their:

  • Excellent reliability
  • High fuel efficiency
  • Affordable maintenance
  • Strong resale value
  • Wide availability of spare parts Popular brands include:
  • Toyota
  • Honda
  • Nissan
  • Suzuki
  • Mazda
  • Mitsubishi
  • Subaru
  • Isuzu Popular models include:
  • Toyota Axio
  • Toyota Fielder
  • Toyota Vitz
  • Toyota Corolla
  • Honda Fit
  • Nissan Note
  • Suzuki Swift
  • Toyota HiAce
03

Vehicle Age Restrictions

Jamaica applies maximum age limits based on the type of vehicle.

Passenger Cars

  • Sedans (up to 5 seats): Maximum 6 years old
  • Station Wagons (up to 8 seats): Maximum 6 years old
  • SUVs (up to 8 seats): Maximum 6 years old

Light Commercial Vehicles

  • Pickups (up to 1,500 kg unladen): Maximum 6 years
  • Pickups (1,501–3,000 kg): Maximum 10 years
  • Panel Vans: Maximum 10 years
  • Window Vans: Maximum 10 years
  • Buses (9–14 seats): Maximum 10 years

Commercial Vehicles

Larger buses and trucks have higher age limits depending on seating capacity and weight, ranging from 12 to 30 years. Returning residents may qualify for different age allowances under the applicable policy.

04

Import Permit Requirement

Before shipping a vehicle from Japan, importers must obtain an Import Licence (Import Permit) from the Trade Board Limited (TBL). The permit must generally be approved before shipment.

05

Pre-Shipment Inspection

Used vehicles exported from Japan to Jamaica require a Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) performed by an approved inspection agency, such as Autoterminal Japan (ATJ). The inspection typically includes:

  • Vehicle identity verification
  • Mechanical condition
  • Odometer verification
  • Accident inspection
  • Safety systems
  • Roadworthiness
  • Radiation inspection (where applicable) A valid PSI Certificate must accompany the shipment.
06

Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Vehicles

Jamaica drives on the left-hand side of the road, making Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Japanese vehicles fully compatible and the preferred choice.

07

Required Documents

Importers generally require:

  • Original Bill of Lading
  • Commercial Invoice
  • Japanese Export Certificate
  • Import Permit (Trade Board)
  • Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate
  • Tax Registration Number (TRN)
  • Customs Entry Declaration
  • Packing List
  • Insurance documents
  • Proof of payment Additional documentation may be required depending on the importer category or vehicle type.
08

Import Duties and Taxes

Imported vehicles are generally subject to:

  • Import Duty
  • General Consumption Tax (GCT)
  • Special Consumption Tax (where applicable)
  • Customs Administrative Fee (CAF)
  • Environmental Levy
  • Port handling and customs clearance charges Taxes are primarily calculated using the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value and depend on:
  • Vehicle type
  • Engine capacity
  • Customs valuation
  • Applicable concessions or exemptions Importers should calculate the full landed cost before purchasing, as taxes can represent a significant portion of the vehicle's final price.
09

Shipping from Japan

Common Japanese export ports include:

  • Yokohama
  • Kobe
  • Nagoya
  • Osaka Vehicles are usually shipped to:

Port of Kingston

  • Port of Montego Bay (limited services) Typical transit time:
  • 30–40 days via Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) or container shipping.
10

Vehicle Registration in Jamaica

After customs clearance, the importer must:

  • Pay all applicable duties and taxes.
  • Complete customs clearance through the Jamaica Customs Agency.
  • Obtain fitness and registration approvals where applicable.
  • Register the vehicle with the Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ).
  • Receive Jamaican licence plates and registration certificate.
  • Obtain mandatory motor vehicle insurance before driving.
11

Popular Japanese Vehicles in Jamaica

Passenger Cars

  • Toyota Corolla Axio
  • Toyota Fielder
  • Honda Fit
  • Nissan Note
  • Toyota Vitz

SUVs

  • Toyota RAV4
  • Toyota Harrier
  • Nissan X-Trail
  • Subaru Forester
  • Mitsubishi Outlander

Pickup Trucks

  • Toyota Hilux
  • Nissan Navara
  • Mitsubishi L200
  • Isuzu D-Max

Commercial Vehicles

  • Toyota HiAce
  • Nissan Caravan
  • Toyota Coaster
  • Isuzu Elf
12

Tips Before Buying

  • Ensure the vehicle complies with Jamaica's age limit before bidding.
  • Apply for the Import Permit before shipment.
  • Obtain a valid Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate.
  • Verify the Japanese auction inspection sheet and mileage.
  • Calculate all import duties and taxes before purchasing.
  • Buy only from a reputable Japanese exporter experienced in shipping to Jamaica.
13

How 360 Moto Can Help

360 Moto provides complete export support for customers importing vehicles from Japan to Jamaica, including:

  • Access to thousands of Japanese auction vehicles
  • Cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles
  • Professional auction bidding services
  • Independent vehicle inspections
  • Pre-Shipment Inspection assistance
  • Export documentation
  • International shipping arrangements
  • Customs documentation support
  • Personal Buying Agent service
  • Secure international payment assistance
  • End-to-end customer support from purchase to delivery
14

Disclaimer from 360 Moto

This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, customs, tax, or import advice.

Jamaica's import regulations, vehicle age limits, customs duties, taxes, import permit requirements, inspection procedures, and vehicle registration rules may change without prior notice.

Buyers are responsible for confirming the latest requirements with the Trade Board Limited (TBL), the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), and other relevant government authorities before purchasing or importing any vehicle.

While 360 Moto strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee that all regulations, duty rates, or procedures remain unchanged at the time of import.

Planning an import to Jamaica?

Ask our team to confirm the vehicle, destination and current export requirements before purchase.

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