Botswana Car Import Guide: Taxes, Duties and Regulations
Whether you are considering importing a car to Botswana from Japan or the United Kingdom, there are a number of shipping and tax regulations that you must observe. In addition, there are a number of ways in which your vehicle can be transported to you.
In this article we take a look at both, in order to help make the experience of shipping a used Japanese car to Botswana smoother and easier.
Shipping Methods
There are a number of transport services for used and new trucks, buses, vans, and cars in Botswana—your vehicle can either be shipped through Ro/Ro (Roll on – Roll off), or it can be containerised. The containerised shipping method is more secure and safer than the Ro/Ro method. The vehicle in this method is braced, tied, and locked down, which ensures security during the shipping period. On the other hand, Ro/Ro is cheaper and simpler than the containerised method for shipping cars to Botswana. The vehicle is secured in the vessel, watertight.
Customs Clearance
For customs clearance, the importer can opt to use the services of an agent or conduct the process on their own. Depending on the address that you issue to the shipping agent in the shipping country, the transporter can come at any time and collect your vehicle following the agent’s arrangements. Whether you are importing a new or used car, the vehicle will first land at the Port of Durban, which is organised by the agent. In most cases, the agent transports the vehicle to Botswana via vehicle carriers.
Your quote for international vehicle transport depends on the total mileage that the vehicle will travel before reaching you. Additionally, the shipping rates will depend whether you opt for container or Ro/Ro in addition to the vehicle type.
Required Documents
There are import requirements for every agent or individual who wishes to ship a car to Botswana.
For example:
- The person must provide documents such as the import permit and residence permit issued by the Commerce Ministry. They must also present an IC.2 application form, which can be gotten from the agent of destination
- Papers for car registration and/or any document that proves that the owner used and owned the vehicle for a year
- Purchase invoice or any document that proves the exact purchase price
- CE101 form that you must complete in duplicate, which you must submit alongside your passport, Residence Permit, and Import Permit
- Clearance certificate from the police.
Apart from providing the documents, there are also customs regulations. For instance, the person who intends to import the vehicle must be a Botswana resident during the procedure of customs clearance. The car importation process is duty-free, but that depends on the owner’s status. The zero duty applies in specific situations, such as when the owner has possessed and used the vehicle for a year before transportation. In addition, the vehicle must arrive in the country within a period of 6 months.
Vehicle Age Restrictions & Customs Duties
If you are considering importing a used car to Botswana, you may be wondering if there are any age restrictions. Currently, there are no restrictions on the age of the vehicle that you desire to import to Botswana. When it comes to the customs duty for importing a vehicle to Botswana, you will pay 27% while the VAT that the local authorities charge is 12%. Consequently, the VAT and customs duty depends on the vehicle value, which includes inspection and shipping costs of 5%.
While you may choose to import a used car to Botswana by yourself, most importers opt for a reputable clearing and forwarding service like that of BE FORWARD. Additionally, visiting the local office in Gaborone allows you to consult with local staff regarding tax, registration, and more.
