Bill of Lading (BOL): A document from the shipping company that includes details of the vehicle, such as chassis number, engine number, model, etc.
Transit Letter: A document issued by the shipping company or customs, indicating the vehicle is in transit to Panama.
Property Letter: This letter is issued by the owner of the vehicle or the seller, confirming the property details and ownership.
Certificate of Title and Registration: Original or certified copy of the certificate of title and registration from the country of origin (Japan).
Consular Document (Authorized): If applicable, a consular document that may be required for processing the vehicle's importation.
Certificate of Tax Payment: Proof of tax payment to the authorities, confirming that the duties and taxes have been paid.
Commercial / Purchase Invoice: The original invoice that includes the vehicle's purchase price, including shipping and handling costs.
Certificate of Environmental Control and Pollution Certificate: A certificate to prove that the vehicle meets environmental regulations and is free from pollutants.
Other Key Information
No Inspection Required:
Panama does not require any inspection for used cars before importing them.
Exemptions:
As mentioned earlier, diplomats, members of international organizations, retirees, and U.S. contractors are eligible for duty-free importation of one vehicle.
In short: Panama allows left-hand drive vehicles with no age restrictions. Import duties are approximately 30%, though exemptions exist for retirees and diplomats. No pre-shipment inspection is required.