Import Duty
~32% total
~25–35%: customs duty + 10% VAT
Steering Side
LHD
Drives on the left. LHD and RHD both common.
Transit Time
22–28 days
From Japanese port to Suriname
✅ Age Check — No Restriction
Suriname has no strict age limit on Japanese car imports. Any year vehicle can be imported (subject to emissions and roadworthy standards).
📍 Entry Ports
🚢 Paramaribo (Nieuwe Haven)
📋 Required Documents
📄Export Certificate
📄Bill of Lading
📄Invoice
📄Insurance
📄Customs declaration
🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process
1
Purchase vehicle from Japan
3
Customs clearance at port
5
Vehicle registration at CBB
6
License plates from traffic department
💰 Import Duty & Taxes
~25–35%: customs duty + 10% VAT
⚠️ 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 Suriname before committing to a purchase.
🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles
🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection
Customs inspection on arrival. CBB (Central Bank) regulations apply.
🛡️ 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-Suriname 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 Suriname
Suriname is one of the more relaxed markets. Drives on the left like its neighbour Guyana — RHD Japanese vehicles are popular here.
🚗 Popular Japanese Cars in Suriname
Toyota Corolla
Honda Fit
Suzuki Alto
Verify the auction sheet before you import
Confirm grade, mileage and accident history before shipping to Suriname. Original record from Japan's auction database. From $7.
Verify Auction Sheet →
🌍 Other Import Guides
