How to import cars from Japan to Trinidad: Part 2 - Clearing Customs

In this second part of the two-part series on how to import used Japanese cars from Japan to Trinidad and Tobago, we will explore the clearing process of your car from the ports of Port of Spain or Point Lisas. In this stage of the importation process, the exporter is not involved at all. You will be coordinating with your broker and the Customs and Excise Division.

First off, let’s check again the factors that can affect your imported car:

• Age – referring to the year your car was manufactured, the car’s age will decide if you can bring it in to your country
• Engine capacity(cc) – all types of vehicles can be grouped according to their cc, and in Trinidad your car’s cc is a big factor in how much you owe the Customs for import duties and fees.
• Driver’s side – all vehicles should be right hand drive.

Documents for the clearing process:

The entire clearing process cannot be done without a licensed clearing agent or customs broker. To avoid delays in the process, your broker will need several documents from you while clearing the car.

Required Documents