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Shipping A Vehicle To Nicaragua

The Challenges Of Shipping A Vehicle To Nicaragua From The USA

If you’ve considered having an auto transported to Nicaragua from the United States, you’ve probably found that it’s tricky to find accurate information and, even if you do, that doesn’t ensure a smooth delivery. The U.S. Embassy often gets complaints about the process, which speaks to delays and fees that can be accrued from seemingly minor (or nonexistent) infractions related to paperwork and procdures.

If you’re just starting the process of learning how to transport a car to Nicaragua, here is a helpful overview of what’s in store and what you need to do: http://www.a1autotransport.com/ship-car-to-nicaragua.php 

Auto Transport Restrictions In Nicaragua

When shipping a motor vehicle to Nicaragua, there are restrictions as to what types of autos can and cannot be brought into the country, as well as differing taxation brackets (see below). With the exception of antiques and donations, no cars more than 10 years old can be brought into the country. Older vehicles can be brought into Nicaragua if they are donated to the Red Cross, local fire departments or a religious organization.

For more information on import/export restrictions, visit the Nicaraguan customs authority.

Shipping A Car To Nicaragua From USA – Required Documents

As with any international shipping procedure, there a host of documents that are required to bring a car into the country. The person who is named on the title must be present for customs clearance and must be able to present the following documents:

  • Passport
  • Certificate from U.S. Customs & Border Patrol
  • Bill of lading
  • Residence visa
  • Title
  • Proof of insurance
  • Vehicle info & declaration of value
  • Invoice certified by Nicaraguan consulate 

Taxation On Automobile Imports To Nicaragua From U.S.

Taxes on imported motor vehicles are assessed based on the cost of the auto, insurance and freight value. This is referred to as the selective consumption tax and the valuation tax differs depending on the size of the engine in the vehicle. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • more than 4,000 cc = 30%
  • less than 4,000 cc = 25%
  • less than 3,000 cc = 20%
  • less than 2,600 cc = 15%
  • less than 1,600 cc = 10% 

Moving A Car To Nicaragua: Other Considerations

Clearly, it’s no easy task getting a car moved to Nicaragua. It is possible to purchase a car in the country, but used cars tend to be harder to come by and usually aren’t in the best condition. Generally speaking, the amount of vehicle information and driving history aren’t consistent with what we’re used to seeing in the U.S. (e.g. don’t expect a CarFax).

Road conditions are also not the best in some parts of the country, which means that a vehicle with higher clearance is preferable in certain areas. Gas prices in Nicaragua are also on the high end, even by U.S. standards, which is a cost you should factor in to your decision.

Need help shipping your car to Nicaragua from the USA? A-1 Auto Transport  can help!

Further Reading 

U.S. Relations With Nicaragua – Find more information about U.S./Nicaragua trade relations and the laws that govern them, as well as helpful links to affiliated sources from the U.S. Department of State.

Trade Regulations – Learn about the regulations and standards for imports and trades with Nicaragua from the U.S. Embassy in Managua, Nicaragua.

Joe Webster
Director Of Marketing – TOLM.co
Email [email protected]
Office + 831-688-1425

 

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