Importing A Car To Jamaica: 2026 Guide

Your complete resource for Trade Board permits, ATJ compliance, and Customs clearance from Japan to Kingston or Montego Bay.

Buy 2023 Land Cruiser ZX 4wd from auction

Local Eligibility

Individuals can import 2 vehicles every 3 years. Returning residents have special 10-year age allowances.

Export Lineup for south africa

Regional Transit Hub

Kingston serves as the primary transshipment hub for the Caribbean, handled by Kingston Wharves Ltd.

gear box isis

Mandatory Permits

All imports require an Import License from the Trade Board Ltd before shipping begins.

car import country policy

Port of Entry: Kingston

AJamaica’s busiest terminal. Most RO-RO vessels from Japan dock here. 4-6 weeks transit time.

The Perfect Match: Japanese Cars for Jamaica

Why Japanese Cars are the Standard for Jamaica?


For Jamaica, Japanese used cars are the premier choice. They offer the essential Right-Hand Drive (RHD) configuration and unmatched reliability for island terrain. As Toyota, Honda, and Nissan dominate the local market, spare parts are readily available island-wide. Whether it’s a fuel-efficient hybrid for Kingston traffic or a rugged SUV for the hills, Japanese imports provide the best value-for-money.

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+81-903-217-5927

Get a FOB or C&F Quote

You must obtain a permit via JSWIFT from the Trade Board before the vehicle is shipped.

Motor cars must be 6 years or newer (unless you are a Returning Resident, which allows up to 10 years).

All used vehicles from Japan must be inspected by Autoterminal Japan (ATJ) to verify roadworthiness and mileage.

The importation of “Salvage” or “Certified Wrecked” vehicles is strictly prohibited.

We are a dedicated, expert-led team that specializes in personally managing the global export of Japanese domestic market (JDM) vehicles. Everything we do is built on a foundation of lasting customer trust, because we know that real success in this business comes from relationships, not just transactions. You’ll always receive honest, competitive pricing with complete transparency from auction to delivery—no hidden fees, and no unexpected charges without your prior approval. We treat every client the way we would want to be treated: with clarity, respect, and integrity at every turn.

Duty & Tax Framework: Choose Your Destination

CategoryImport DutySCT & GCTNotes
Electric Vehicles (EV)10%Lower GCTReduced rate for the first 1,000 units annually.
Standard Sedans20% – 30%Variable SCTSpecial Consumption Tax (SCT) depends on engine CC.
HybridsVariableReducedOften attract lower aggregate duties than pure petrol.

Before the Car Leaves Japan

  1. Select & Verify: Choose your vehicle and ensure it meets the 6-year age limit.
  2. PSI Inspection: We arrange the ATJ inspection in Japan to ensure the car is “Jamaica-Ready.”
  3. Apply for Permit: Submit your invoice and export certificate to the Trade Board via JSWIFT.
  4. Secure Shipment: We ship the car to Kingston (KGN) and provide the Bill of Lading.
  5. Customs Clearance: Your broker pays the duties (Import Duty, GCT, SCT, and Environmental Levy).
  6. Drive Away: Once cleared, register the car at the Tax Office for your plates and fitness certificate.

Nexuss Pro-Tips for 2026

  1. The JSWIFT Portal: Ensure your TRN (Taxpayer Registration Number) is active before starting your application on the JSWIFT platform.
  2. ATJ Certification: Never ship a car without the Autoterminal Japan certificate. If it arrives without it, the car may be seized or denied entry.
  3. Broker Requirement: Jamaican law requires a Licensed Customs Broker to clear any vehicle for an individual.
WhatsApp: Start Your Car Search

Tell us what you want

Specify the exact Make, Model, and Auction Grade you need. Get expert advice online, negotiate remotely, and inspect cars live via video call—all from your home.

We inspect & verify

Auction sheet translated and verified. All recommended vehicles are certified and checked for the peace of mind before placing the final bid on your behalf.

We send it securely to your port

We coordinate transportation to the port, clear all domestic export formalities, and load the car onto the vessel. Your Importing Agent handles destination port clearance on arrival.