Importing Used Cars from
Japan to Iraq
Regulations and Procedures

Introduction: 

So, you've set your sights on a Japanese car, but not just any car—you're eyeing one that's almost as fresh as a newly minted coin. Well, Iraq has some specifics you'll want to jot down. First off, the car shouldn't be older; it has to be a youngster, no more than two years old.

Your car will dock at Umm Qasr after a sea voyage of about a month. The shipping boats set sail weekly, but inspection details remain a bit hazy. Now, remember, Iraq insists on left-hand driving. No exceptions!

Ah, the money talk. Prepare to part with 8-10% of your car's value in duties and taxes unless your embassy says otherwise. The shipping method? RoRo is the go-to, but containers can be arranged if you're feeling fancy.

Paperwork, of course, is the backbone of this venture. Your passport, bills, and car ownership documents are just the starter pack. If it's a corporate gig, you'll need a thumbs-up from the Ministry of Interior and your local customs office.

The Importation Process 

Importing used cars from Japan to Iraq involves several key points to consider. The designated destination port for shipment is Umm Qasr, and the typical time of shipment ranges from 29 to 34 days for container shipping. Weekly vessel schedules are available for containers.

Age Restriction and Vehicle Eligibility 

There is an age restriction on non-armored vehicles imported into Iraq (less than 2 years).

Import Duties and Taxes 

Importers are required to pay duties and taxes when importing a vehicle to Iraq. In the event that the Embassy of the sender does not give any “diplomatic protocol”, a cost consisting of duties & taxes ranging from 8-10% will be needed. The Customs value that is mentioned on the Pro-forma Invoice is what is used to calculate this cost.

Required Documentation and Fees 

To successfully import pre-owned vehicles into Iraq, certain paperwork must be provided. These include a passport photocopy, a duplicate of the initial Shipment Manifest (SM), proof of ownership, a title certificate, and a preliminary sales invoice. In situations where vehicles are being imported on behalf of a company, authorization from both the Ministry of Interior and the local customs office is mandatory.

Shipping and Customs Clearance 

Ports such as the Port of Basrah, Port of Umm Qasr and Port of Khor Al Zubair are frequently used for the transportation of imported automobiles from Japan to Iraq. Other ports may also be used. RoRo is the commonly used shipping method, but container shipment is available upon customer request for a higher cost and increased safety.

Compliance and Modifications  

Imported vehicles must comply with Iraq's regulations. Left-hand drive vehicles are permitted for importation, while temporary imports for personal use are not allowed. Clearance through customs is an ongoing process that must be completed. However, imports for the purpose of the firm are permitted to be either permanent or temporary. Certain modifications may be necessary to meet the requirements.

Registration in Iraq 

After the importation process and customs clearance, the imported vehicles need to be registered in Iraq. This involves following the registration procedures set by the relevant authorities.

Tips for a Hassle-free Importing Experience 

To ensure a hassle-free importing experience, it is advised to follow five easy steps when buying cars from Japan. Additionally, it is important to be cautious of fraudsters and verify the authenticity of dealers. 

Benefits of Importing Cars from Japan to Iraq  

Importing cars from Japan to Iraq offers several benefits. Japanese vehicles are highly regarded for their reliability, longevity, and durability. With millions of vehicles produced and exported annually, Japan caters to various countries worldwide. Online portals have made importing used vehicles easier and more efficient. Iraq, being a significant importer of used Japanese vehicles, can benefit from the wide range of high-quality options available.

Conclusion: 

Importing used cars from Japan to Iraq requires careful attention to various factors such as the importation process, age restrictions, import duties and taxes, required documentation, shipping and customs clearance procedures, compliance and modifications, and the registration process. By following the guidelines and considering these factors, individuals can have a successful and hassle-free experience in importing cars from Japan.