Import Duty
~65% total
25–30% customs + 15% VAT + 25% import surcharge = ~65–70% total
Steering Side
RHD
Right-hand drive only. Drives on the left.
Transit Time
18–22 days
From Japanese port to South Africa
✅ Age Check — No Restriction
South Africa has no strict age limit on Japanese car imports. Any year vehicle can be imported (subject to emissions and roadworthy standards).
📍 Entry Ports
🚢 Durban (main)
🚢 Cape Town
🚢 Port Elizabeth
📋 Required Documents
📄Export Certificate
📄Bill of Lading
📄Commercial Invoice
📄Insurance
📄SARS customs clearance
📄Natis registration docs
🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process
2
Ship to Durban or Cape Town
3
Pay SARS customs duty (~25–30%) + 15% VAT
5
NaTIS roadworthy inspection
💰 Import Duty & Taxes
25–30% customs + 15% VAT + 25% import surcharge = ~65–70% total
⚠️ Important: Duty rates change regularly. The figures above are based on 2026 rates and are for guidance only. Always confirm current rates with a licensed customs agent or freight forwarder in South Africa before committing to a purchase.
🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles
⛔LHD vehicles not allowed for registration
⛔High duties make import expensive
🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection
JEVIC recommended. NaTIS roadworthy test required after import.
🛡️ Safety Guide — Before You Buy
- Always verify the auction sheet first. Get the original JP Sheet verification report before committing to any vehicle — confirms grade, mileage, accident history and all damage marks.
- Check for flood damage. The Japanese inspector notes the word 冠水 (flood) in the auction sheet notes section. This is only visible with a full translation — never skip translation if buying for an important purpose.
- Use a licensed freight forwarder who specifically handles Japan-to-South Africa imports. They know local customs requirements, common delays and documentation pitfalls.
- Verify the exporter. Check the company is registered, has verifiable reviews, and provides a full paper trail including export certificate and shipping documents.
- Never pay full price before the car ships. A deposit is normal — paying 100% before shipping is a major fraud risk.
- Check the chassis number matches across all documents — auction sheet, export certificate, bill of lading and invoice must all carry the same number.
💡 Import Tips for South Africa
Total landed cost including duty can be 65–70% above vehicle purchase price. Popular for 4x4s and utility vehicles where local prices are very high.
🚗 Popular Japanese Cars in South Africa
Toyota Hilux
Land Rover Defender
Toyota Land Cruiser
Verify the auction sheet before you import
Confirm grade, mileage and accident history before shipping to South Africa. Original record from Japan's auction database. From $7.
Verify Auction Sheet →
🌍 Other Import Guides
