Guatemala Import Regulations

General Information & Import Rules

• • Who Can Import: Private individuals, diplomats, and registered businesses.
• • Drive Orientation: Only Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are permitted for importation.
• • Age Restriction: Vehicles must be a maximum of 10 years old from the date of manufacture.
• • Trade Benefits: As a member of CAFTA-DR, the shipping process to Guatemala is significantly smoother for eligible vehicles.

Shipping & Logistics

• • Main Ports: Puerto Quetzal (Western coast) and Port of Santo Tomas de Castilla (Eastern coast).
• • Shipment Details: Approximately 24–36 days via RORO.
• • Vessel Schedule: Frequency is typically less than bi-monthly.
• • Inspection: No pre-shipment inspection is required for regular vehicle imports.

Duties & Taxes

• • Import Duty: Typically ranges between 1% and 15% of the total CIF value.
• • VAT: Standard 12% rate applies to all imported vehicles.
• • Diplomatic Exemption: Members of international missions may be exempt from standard duties with a legitimate diplomatic franchise.

Clearance Requirement Highlight

• • Vehicle Condition Report: A formal report from a certified mechanic must be presented during the clearance process in Guatemala.
• • Valuation Advice: All importers are strongly advised to establish the vehicle’s customs value before initiating the shipping process.

Required Documentation

• • Original Bill of Lading (BoL) and Purchase Invoice (notarized by Guatemalan Consulate at origin).
• • Original Certificate of Title and Registration (notarized by Guatemalan Consulate at origin).
• • NIT number, Passport, and an updated copy of the registration card.
• • Mechanical Vehicle Condition Report.