Trinidad & Tobago drives on the left, so right-hand-drive Japanese used vehicles fit the road directly without any costly conversion. This makes Japan one of the most practical sources for affordable, well-maintained compact cars and family wagons for the local market.
Foreign-used vehicles are generally subject to an age limit of roughly six years, and a pre-shipment inspection is normally required before the unit leaves Japan. Importers should budget for duty, motor vehicle tax and VAT, all of which are assessed against the customs (CIF) value on arrival.
Overview
- Age limit
- 6 years
- Main ports
- Port of Spain
- Drive side
- RHD
- Currency
- TTD
- Inspection
- Pre-shipment inspection (JEVIC-type)
Indicative duties & taxes
How import taxes stack up on the CIF value.
| FOB | $10,000 |
| Ocean freight | $0 |
| Marine insurance | $150 |
| CIF value | $10,150 |
| Import Duty | $3,045 |
| Motor Vehicle Tax | $1,015 |
| VAT | $1,269 |
| Estimated taxes | $5,329 |
| Estimated landed cost | $15,479 |
Estimates only, based on indicative rates. Request a formal quote from ASTONISHING CARS for exact figures.
Required documents
- •Original bill of lading
- •Commercial invoice
- •Japanese export certificate (de-registration)
- •Pre-shipment inspection certificate
- •Valid photo ID of the importer
- •Customs import declaration
Popular models
Import process
- 1Choose a compliant vehicle within the age limit and confirm RHD specification.
- 2Complete the mandatory pre-shipment inspection in Japan.
- 3Arrange ocean freight to Port of Spain and obtain the bill of lading.
- 4Lodge the customs declaration and pay duty, motor vehicle tax and VAT on the CIF value.
- 5Clear customs, register the vehicle locally and obtain plates.
Buying & import guides for Trinidad & Tobago
Model picks and import know-how for the Trinidad & Tobago market.
Best Japanese Cars for the Trinidad Market
Trinidad and Tobago drives on the left and uses right-hand-drive cars. Efficient, reliable Japanese models suit the islands' roads and conditions.
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Read moreShipping & logisticsImport duty and taxes on used cars, explained
How duty, VAT, excise and clearing fees stack on top of CIF, and why the same car costs different amounts in different countries.
Read moreBuying guidesHow to import a car from Japan: a step-by-step guide
The full journey from confirming your country's rules to collecting the car at your port, in seven clear steps.
Read moreFrequently asked questions
Can I import a right-hand-drive car?+
Yes. Trinidad & Tobago drives on the left, so RHD Japanese vehicles are standard and require no conversion.
How old can the vehicle be?+
Foreign-used cars are commonly limited to around six years, but this is indicative only.
Where can I confirm the exact duties and age limit?+
Always confirm current rates and the age limit with the Trinidad & Tobago Customs and Excise Division before purchasing.
Figures are indicative and change frequently. Always confirm current rules and rates with the official customs authority before importing.
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