We always recommend checking with your embassy, a clearing agent in Zimbabwe or the authorities in Zimbabwe to ensure you have up to date information on the rules and regulations. The information here is for guidance purposes only and should not be used as hard and fast rules.
You can read more on our guide to vehicle shipping from the UK to Zimbabwe.
Left-Hand And Right-Hand Drive Vehicles In Zimbabwe
Both Left-Hand and Right-Hand Drive vehicles are allowed into Zimbabwe.
Age Limits On Imported Vehicles In Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has introduced a 10 year age limit on cars to Zimbabwe, however trucks are currently unaffected by this regulation.
Documentation Required For Customs Clearance In Zimbabwe
The following documents are required to be produced on importation:-
- Tax Invoice
- Bill Of Lading
- Freight Invoice
- Road Manifest (Usually generated by a clearing agent)
Value for Duty Purposes
The calculation of Customs Duty in Zimbabwe is based on cost, insurance and freight (CIF) of the motor vehicle from the country of exportation. The value to be used as a basis for the calculation of duty and tax shall, therefore, include all charges and expenses incurred and incidental to the purchase of the vehicle and its transportation up to the place of importation. Thus, all essential documents to establish CIF for the vehicle must be submitted, and these include the following:
- Purchase invoice
- Bill of lading
- Insurance statement
- Port charges (i.e. Durban, Walvis Bay, etc.)
- Storage charges
- Customs clearance charges at the ports of entry
- Transport/freight statements to border post of clearance into Zimbabwe
The above charges are used in calculating the value for duty purposes (VDP). The rate of Customs Duty is then applied to the value for duty purposes. Where the motor vehicle is more than five years old, Surtax is also charged on the same value at the applicable rate.
VAT is, however, based on the total of the value for duty purposes and the Customs Duty (i.e. VDP plus Customs Duty). Therefore, a motor vehicle which is more than five years old will attract Customs Duty, Surtax and VAT, while a vehicle aged five years and below will be exempted from paying Surtax only.
Tax Exemptions
The following qualify for tax exemptions in Zimbabwe:
- Returning residents: This refers to Zimbabwean nationals that have resided outside Zimbabwe for more than 24 months.
- Physically handicapped persons: Physically handicapped persons are exempt from customs duty but are required to pay VAT based on the value of the vehicle plus freight, insurance and any other charges incurred during delivery to Zimbabwe.
- Temporary Import permits: Persons who are not Zimbabwean residents may bring foreign-registered vehicles into Zimbabwe and are exempt from paying import duties and taxes.
Source:http://www.zimra.co.zw/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1020&Itemid=108
