If you are thinking about importing a car for your personal use, the best way to do so is by securing the services of a registered automobile importer as this will significantly reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions. At this point in time, you can import hatchbacks, sedans , and micro cars that have been used for at least three years or SUVs that have been used for five.
The most popular destination to import refurbished cars from is Japan; options include luxury cars (Bentleys, Land Rovers and Porches), mid-range cars (Suzuki Swift and Toyota Vitz) and economy cars (Daihatsu Mira, Suzuki Alto, and Toyota Passo).
Here is what to do after you have hired a registered automobile importer:
1. Inform the importer of the car you wish to import; he will provide you with a list of cars that have been placed on auctions and which meet your criteria (price,make,etc.). He will also assist you with the paperwork. Make sure to agree on his fee beforehand.
2. Once you decided the car you want, you will be required to pay a security deposit equivalent to five to 10% of the estimated price of the car to ensure that your bid is entered.
3. If your bid is successful, you will have to make the payment immediately (preferably by electronic wire transfer). This will include the freight costs.
4. Once your payments has been received, the vehicle will be shipped; transit times can vary from six to eight weeks.
5. When the ship docks at port, you will have to seven to 10 days for the container to be unloaded and for the custom and excise duties, tariffs and taxes to be calculated. You will have to pay these to the port authorities before you can claim your car. You will then have to register your car with the relevant Provincial Excise Department. Remember that driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal.
By Mohammad Ali Khwaja