How to Import a Vehicle from Japan to Guyana

Five stages, from auction to a registered plate in Georgetown.

1. STEP 1

   Choose and pay for the vehicle

   Source the vehicle through a Japanese auction or exporter and pay the purchase price plus their handling fee.

2. STEP 2

   ATJ pre-shipment inspection

   Every used vehicle must clear an Autoterminal Japan (ATJ) inspection before it can be shipped — mandatory since Feb 1, 2025. No certificate, no clearance in Guyana.

3. STEP 3

   Shipping (RoRo or container)

   Most used vehicles ship Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo); higher-value or modified units sometimes go by container. Transit from Japan to Georgetown typically runs 6–10 weeks.

4. STEP 4

   Customs clearance at GRA

   On arrival, the Guyana Revenue Authority assesses customs duty, excise tax, and VAT based on the vehicle's age, engine size, and fuel type — see the duty calculator for an estimate.

5. STEP 5

   Registration

   Register the vehicle with the Guyana Police Force / Licence Revenue Office. Private vehicles receive a P-plate; commercial/goods vehicles receive a G-plate.

FAQ

How long does importing a car from Japan to Guyana take?

Budget 8–12 weeks end to end: sourcing and payment, the ATJ inspection, ocean transit (6–10 weeks RoRo), and GRA clearance and registration after arrival.

Can I import any used car from Japan?

Vehicles over 8 years old have been permitted for import since October 2020, so age alone does not disqualify a vehicle — it affects which duty band applies, not eligibility. The ATJ inspection and standard RHD/registration rules still apply.

What happens if a vehicle fails the ATJ inspection?

A vehicle without a valid ATJ certificate cannot clear customs in Guyana. Resolve any inspection issues before shipping, not after.

Working guide — not legal or customs advice. Confirm current requirements with the Guyana Revenue Authority or a licensed customs broker before shipping.