Importing a Car to Tanzania: The Complete 2025 Guide

Everything you need to know about TRA regulations, import duties, and shipping from Japan to Dar es Salaam.

Age Limit

Cars over 10 years incur a government dumping fee. We recommend 2016 or newer models to maximize your investment and avoid high TRA (Tanzania Revenue Authority) penalty taxes.

Inspection:

A mandatory JAAI Inspection is required before the car leaves Japan. NexussCars handles the booking and certification to ensure your vehicle clears customs at Dar es Salaam without penalties.

Drive Side

Tanzania strictly allows Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles only. We verify the chassis and steering configuration of every auction unit before bidding to ensure 100% compliance with local road laws.

Port

Main entry is via Dar es Salaam. Shipping typically takes 4–6 weeks from Japan. We provide full RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) tracking so you can coordinate with your clearing agent in advance.

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Why Choose Japanese Car?

In Tanzania, when people choose a car, they look for two main things: a car that doesn’t break down and a car that keeps its price. Japanese cars are the favorite because they are famous for being very strong and reliable. They can drive on rough roads for many years without needing expensive repairs. Because they are so trustworthy, when the owner wants to sell the car later, it still has a high price. So, a Japanese car is a smart choice—it is safe to drive and safe for your money. It is more than just a car; it is a good investment for the future.

Whatsapp for a secure deal

+81-903-217-5927

Choose your vehicle from All Cars for Sale Japan, access Auctions and Dealer Stocks.

We arrange the JAAI/EAA check before shipping out of Japan.

Vehicle is shipped via RoRo or Container (4–6 weeks). More than 3-units economical to ship via Dry 40Ft. HC Container.

Receive your BL, Export Certificate, and Invoice.

Work with a TRA-authorized agent in Dar es Salaam.

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.

Alert

Duty & Tax Breakdown

Dumping Fee

Applicable to vehicles older than 10 years

Import Duty

25%

VAT

18%

Excise Duty

Varies by engine size (0% – 10% – 25%)

Railway Levy

1.5%

Calculate Tanzania Import Duty

Nexuss Japan | Tanzania Import Portal 2025

CIF & Estimated Duty Calculator for Dar es Salaam Port

⚠️ Dumping Fee Applicable: Vehicles older than 10 years (pre-2015) incur higher TRA taxes.

Estimated CIF (Dar es Salaam)

$0.00
Shipping (RoRo): $0.00
JAAI Inspection Fee: $250
Export & Insurance: $0.00

TRA Tax Estimates:

Import Duty (25%): $0.00
VAT (18%): $0.00
Excise Duty: $0.00
Railway Levy (1.5%): $0.00

Understanding the “10-Year Rule” & Dumping Fees

For 2025, the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) continues to enforce strict age restrictions. While you can import vehicles older than 10 years, they are subject to a high ‘Dumping Fee.’ We highly recommend importing vehicles manufactured between 2015 and 2022 to maximize value for money and ensure lower port clearance costs.

JAAI Inspection is Non-Negotiable

Before your car leaves Japan, it must undergo a JAAI (Japan Auto Appraisal Institute) inspection. Importing a car without this certificate results in heavy fines at the Dar es Salaam port. At Nexuss Cars, we handle this process for you, ensuring your vehicle is certified roadworthy before it ever touches the ship.