Zimbabwe is landlocked and imports right-hand-drive vehicles mainly via Durban (South Africa) or Beira (Mozambique), then overland under transit bond. Many transactions are quoted in US dollars.
Import taxes are relatively high once customs duty, surtax and VAT are combined, so accurate landed-cost planning is essential before committing to a purchase.
Overview
- Age limit
- No fixed limit
- Main ports
- Durban (transit), Beira (transit)
- Drive side
- RHD
- Currency
- USD
- Inspection
- Pre-shipment inspection
Indicative duties & taxes
How import taxes stack up on the CIF value.
| FOB | $10,000 |
| Ocean freight · Beira | $1,300 |
| Marine insurance | $170 |
| CIF value | $11,470 |
| Customs Duty | $4,588 |
| Surtax | $4,014 |
| VAT | $3,011 |
| Estimated taxes | $11,613 |
| Estimated landed cost | $23,082 |
Estimates only, based on indicative rates. Request a formal quote from ASTONISHING CARS for exact figures.
Required documents
- •Original Bill of Lading
- •Export Certificate
- •Pre-shipment inspection certificate
- •Commercial invoice
- •Transit / bond documents
Popular models
Import process
- 1Choose an RHD vehicle and estimate the full landed cost first.
- 2Complete a pre-shipment inspection in Japan.
- 3Ship to Durban or Beira.
- 4Transit overland to Zimbabwe under bond.
- 5Clear with ZIMRA and pay duty, surtax and VAT.
Cars in stock for Zimbabwe
Right-hand-drive Japanese stock our buyers regularly ship to Zimbabwe.
Buying & import guides for Zimbabwe
Model picks and import know-how for the Zimbabwe market.
Best Japanese cars for the Zimbabwe market
Durable, value-holding and right-hand drive: the Japanese used cars that perform best in Zimbabwe.
Read moreBuying guidesToyota Hilux export buyer's guide: the indestructible pickup
Which Hilux generations and engines to import, single vs double cab, and why it dominates work and resale markets.
Read moreBuying guidesToyota Land Cruiser & Prado export guide: the durability benchmark
Which Land Cruiser and Prado generations to import, diesel vs petrol, and why they hold value better than any other 4x4.
Read moreBuying guidesHonda Fit (Jazz) export buyer's guide
A clever little hatchback with surprising space and a frugal hybrid option, the Fit is a top budget import.
Read moreBuying guidesNissan AD Van export buyer's guide
A cheap, reliable commercial estate like the Probox: what the Nissan AD Van offers and what to check.
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 moreFrequently asked questions
Why are Zimbabwe import duties high?+
Customs duty, surtax and VAT combine to a significant total. Always model the landed cost before buying and confirm current ZIMRA rates.
Which route is fastest to Zimbabwe?+
Beira is the shortest sea route for many regions; Durban offers more frequent sailings. Compare total transit cost and time.
Figures are indicative and change frequently. Always confirm current rules and rates with the official customs authority before importing.
Get market updates and stock alerts
Join importers across Europe and Africa. Price guides, regulation changes and new arrivals in your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.