Jamaica

If you intend to import a motor vehicle or motorcycle, you must first apply to the Trade Board for an Import Licence before making arrangements for shipping the vehicle to Jamaica. Importing a motor vehicle without a valid import permit results in a fine according to Section 210 of the Customs Act.

Individuals aged 18 and older can legally import a maximum of two motor vehicles in any three-year period. This can include one motor car and one light commercial vehicle or two light commercial vehicles. Used vehicles must not be older than four years for motor cars or five years for light commercial vehicles. A one-year restriction prohibits unauthorized disposal or sale of imported vehicles. Transfer requests for pre-owned vehicles will only be facilitated if the entity is certified by the Trade Board.

To apply for an Import Licence, submit an order and clearance permit application to the Trade Board online or manually, along with a fee of USD $35.00. The application must be supported by a pro-forma invoice (for new cars) or a certificate of title/registration (for used cars), certified copies of two forms of ID, and a photocopy of the Tax Payer Registration Card. Processing typically takes 24 hours.

In addition to the Import Licence, the following documents must be submitted to the Customs Department: Title/Registration Certificate, Invoice, Bill of Lading, Bill of Sight, Tax Compliance Certificate, and C78/Import Entry. Customs Duty is calculated based on the vehicle's value, which can be referenced from the Glass's Guide or N.A.D.A. Book depending on the vehicle's origin.

Importing vehicles considered damaged or salvaged is prohibited, regardless of the extent of damage or its cause.

Due to rising fuel costs, many people in Jamaica look for vehicles with good fuel efficiency. Poor road conditions have led to a preference for SUVs, with many opting for diesel vehicles to offset high gas prices. The cost of gasoline ranges from 99.00 JMD to 140.40 JMD, influencing vehicle import decisions.

Jamaica has five ports, including the Port of Montego Bay and the Port of Ocho Rios. However, motor vehicles can only be shipped to the Kingston Container Terminal in Kingston. The terminal operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Storage fees apply, and vehicles not collected within a maximum period will be auctioned.

The Kingston Container Terminal (KCT) is owned by the Port Authority of Jamaica and consists of three terminals: North, South, and West Terminals.