Costa Rica

HOW TO SHIP A CAR TO COSTA RICA

 

Have you finalized your plans to move to Costa Rica and wondering what things should be taken with you? No doubts, your car will be on top priority of things that should be moved. How to accomplish the same without many problems?

 

Importing a car to Costa Rica is quite high since the number of cars on the country’s roads is high and the government intends to reduce the number of cars being imported into the country. Hence it levies high taxes and other procedures. You can ship your car even if it is a used one. The vehicle will have to be inspected and insurance has to be obtained. You can either drive the vehicle or shipping it but driving is said to be very risky and hence people prefer to ship them.

 

  • The model, year, value, and accessories are considered for calculation of taxes and duties.
  • The vehicles should have EPA Smog test issued by the consulate of the country of origin.
  • You also should possess documents such as original certificate of title and registration and invoice for purchase.
  • The title of ownership which shows clearance of lien should also be submitted.
  • Taxes have to be paid when the car is taken delivery and the amount has to be verified from the import offices because of the frequent changes in the policies.
  • Find out if you are eligible for any exemptions based on the category under which you are moving into the country.

 

Whatever be the model of the car or country it is from, Costa Rica expects all the vehicles to undergo emission test. This rule applies to the cars whether they are shifted permanently or on a temporary basis. It is highly advisable to contact the Costa Rican consulate so that people can get more information about the import and ensure that they have completed all the formalities required for the purpose.

 

The government of Costa Rica applies heavy tax on both used and new vehicles depending on the age of the car. The tax includes Ad valorem duty which is applied for the CIF, duty rates, consumption tax, and sales and consumption tax. There is strict prohibition of importing cars with used tires and without rims.

 

Costa Rica expects you to adhere to the rules strictly and by doing so, you are ensuring a smooth shipping of your car into the country.

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://costarica.usembassy.gov/consfaq.html#importvehicle

http://trade.gov/static/autos_report_tradebarriers2011.pdf

http://webportal.atlasintl.com/Customs%20Docs/Costa%20Rica.pdf