Importing Japanese used cars to Tanzania
Tanzania imports through the Port of Dar es Salaam, which also serves landlocked neighbours such as Zambia, DR Congo, Rwanda and Burundi. This makes it a key transit hub for the region.
Tanzania does not enforce a strict age limit but applies a higher excise duty on older vehicles, so newer units can be more cost-effective overall. Vehicles must be right-hand drive.
Overview
- Age limit
- No fixed limit
- Main ports
- Dar es Salaam
- Drive side
- RHD
- Currency
- TZS
- Inspection
- JEVIC / pre-shipment inspection
Indicative duties & taxes
How import taxes stack up on the CIF value.
| CIF | $10,000 |
| Import Duty | $2,500 |
| Excise Duty | $1,250 |
| VAT | $2,475 |
| Estimated taxes | $6,225 |
| Estimated landed cost | $16,225 |
Estimates only, based on indicative rates. Request a formal quote from JGLOGI for exact figures.
Required documents
- •Original Bill of Lading
- •Export Certificate (translated)
- •Pre-shipment inspection certificate
- •Commercial invoice
- •TANCIS import declaration
Popular models
Import process
- 1Select an RHD vehicle and check the excise band for its age.
- 2Arrange JEVIC pre-shipment inspection in Japan.
- 3Ship via RoRo to Dar es Salaam.
- 4Lodge a TANCIS declaration and pay duties.
- 5Register the vehicle and obtain plates.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an age limit in Tanzania?
There is no hard age limit, but older vehicles attract a higher excise duty. Verify current rates with TRA.
Can I transit a car through Tanzania to Zambia?
Yes. Dar es Salaam is the main transit port for several landlocked countries.
Figures are indicative and change frequently. Always confirm current rules and rates with the official customs authority before importing.
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