Are you considering importing a used car from Japan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia?
Japanese vehicles are renowned for their high quality, reliability, and competitive pricing, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a dependable car.
To ensure a smooth and successful import process, we’ve prepared this comprehensive guide outlining the key regulations, requirements, and essential steps you need to know.
Import Conditions
- Vehicle Age: Imported passenger cars must not exceed 5 years from the year of manufacture to the date of arrival in Saudi Arabia. For trucks and heavy vehicles, the maximum allowable age is 10 years.
- Left-Hand Drive Only: Only vehicles with left-hand steering are permitted for import. Right-hand drive vehicles are strictly prohibited, except in special cases such as classic cars over 30 years old, subject to official approval.
Tip: Always verify the vehicle’s manufacturing year and ensure the steering configuration complies with Saudi regulations before completing your purchase.
Required Documents for Vehicle Import
To complete the import process successfully, the following documents must be prepared:
- The original export certificate from the country of shipment
- The commercial invoice detailing the vehicle’s price and specifications
- The original Bill of Lading (B/L)
- Personal identification documents (such as a valid passport or Saudi national ID)
Tip: Ensure all documents contain matching and accurate information, especially the chassis number and vehicle details to avoid delays or issues at customs.
Pre-Shipment and In-Kingdom Vehicle Inspection
Some exporters conduct technical inspections on vehicles before shipping them from Japan to assess their general condition. While helpful to buyers, this type of inspection does not replace the official inspection required in Saudi Arabia.
Upon arrival at a Saudi port, every imported vehicle must undergo a mandatory inspection by local authorities to ensure it complies with the country’s technical and environmental regulations. Passing this inspection is a crucial step for completing customs clearance and registering the vehicle legally.
Note: Since only the local inspection is officially recognized, it is the importer’s responsibility to ensure the vehicle meets the required standards upon arrival. Choosing a car in good mechanical condition can help avoid delays or rejection.
Customs Duties and Taxes
- Customs Duty: 5% of the vehicle’s value as stated on the commercial invoice.
- Value-Added Tax (VAT): 15% calculated on the total of the vehicle’s value plus the customs duty.
Example: If the vehicle is valued at SAR 50,000, the customs duty would be SAR 2,500. The total becomes SAR 52,500, and VAT at 15% would be SAR 7,875.
Import and Customs Clearance Procedures
Once the vehicle arrives at a Saudi port, the following steps must be completed:
- Submit all required documents to the Saudi Customs Authority
- Pay the customs duties and VAT through the “FASAH” platform or directly via customs channels: https://www.fasah.sa/trade/home/ar/index.html
- Undergo a customs inspection to verify that the vehicle meets approved specifications
Reminder: Double-check that the chassis number and all vehicle details match across the documents before submission to avoid any delays or issues.
Vehicle Registration and Insurance
After completing customs clearance, the vehicle must be officially registered with the Saudi Traffic Department.
The required documents include:
- Customs clearance documents
- Valid third-party liability insurance (mandatory)
- Proof of payment for the vehicle registration fee
Helpful Tip: You can schedule an appointment for registration through the “Absher” online platform to streamline the process: https://www.absher.sa/portal/landing.html
Simple Steps to Import a Japanese Car to Saudi Arabia
- Choose the Vehicle: Look for a reliable car from a trusted source or a reputable online platform, and try to verify its mechanical condition as much as possible before purchasingو many buyers have found success using exporters like BE FORWARD.
- Prepare the Documents: Collect the necessary documents, including the export certificate, bill of lading, commercial invoice, and personal identification.
- Shipping and Customs Clearance: Arrange for the vehicle to be shipped to a Saudi port, submit the required paperwork, and pay the customs duties and taxes to complete the clearance process.
- Technical Inspection in Saudi Arabia: Once the car arrives, it must undergo a mandatory inspection by local authorities to ensure compliance with national specifications.
- Registration and Insurance: After passing inspection and clearing customs, register the vehicle with the traffic department and complete the insurance procedures before driving legally.
Why Choose to Import a Used Car from Japan?
- Exceptional Quality: Japanese vehicles are known for their longevity and low maintenance needs.
- Competitive Prices: You can often get a car in excellent condition at a lower cost compared to other markets.
- Wide Variety: Japan offers a vast selection of makes and models to suit different tastes and budgets.
- Thorough Inspection and Transparency: Most vehicles undergo detailed inspections before export, with access to accurate usage history and condition reports.
Conclusion
Importing a used car from Japan to Saudi Arabia is a rewarding experience when you follow the proper regulations and guidelines. By following this guide, you can navigate the process with confidence and ease, ensuring a high-quality vehicle purchase.
At BE FORWARD, we offer you the opportunity to explore a wide range of vehicles from various brands, all of which are thoroughly inspected before being shipped from our global warehouses, ensuring a safe and smooth buying experience.
