Import Laws

[foxxx]

does anyone know if there's any restrictions on importing a car in from japan.

i understand import duties are upwards of 200-300%, but is there age restrictions? engine displacement restrictions? etc.

[dave_boo]

My understanding is the only limit is the depth of your pocket and patience.

[mdechgan]

The car has to be new and can't be used or second hand. Other than that just pay the money and taxes.

[HardenedSoul]

Didn't wanna start a new thread so I've latched on to this one as it's the most recent I could find.

I want to import an 18 year old BMW Z1 cos I'm gonna stay here for a bit.

As it's fairly rare and old, I'm wondering whether it'd be considered as a classic by the authorities and thus exempt from import duty.

I've also heard that one could theoretically import a vehicle to Malaysia and drive it to Thailand on foreign plates as long as one has a valid visa.

Edited October 28, 2008 by HardenedSoul

[BSJ]

HardenedSoul: As it's fairly rare and old, I'm wondering whether it'd be considered as a classic by the authorities and thus exempt from import duty.

Don't think so. In Thailand a classic just means it hasn't broken down as often as a new car! But if the car isn't staying forever...and you don't mind border runs.....

From the PDF at Customs (www.customs.go.th/Customs-Eng/indexEng.jsp)

A TEMPORARY IMPORT OF PERSONAL VEHICLES

A temporary import of personal vehicles for a short visit e.g. a motor vehicle, motorcycle, yacht, sports boat, or fishing vessel, etc. into Thailand by owners shall be grant tax/duty relief provided that they are to be re-exported within 1-2 months but not exceeding six months. Any persons intending to temporarily import personal vehicles e.g. a motor vehicle, motorcycle, yacht, sports boat, or fishing vessel, etc. have to closely observe the following Customs regulations and conditions:

[Carib]

http://www.customs.go.th/Customs-Eng/Perso...Nme=PersonalPer

Have fun with the official part.....which ofcourse is "bendable" (pos or neg).

[LivinLOS]

Didn't wanna start a new thread so I've latched on to this one as it's the most recent I could find.

I want to import an 18 year old BMW Z1 cos I'm gonna stay here for a bit.

As it's fairly rare and old, I'm wondering whether it'd be considered as a classic by the authorities and thus exempt from import duty.

They dont care

I've also heard that one could theoretically import a vehicle to Malaysia and drive it to Thailand on foreign plates as long as one has a valid visa.

Only if you get Malay plates and then bring cross border asean.. 'Western plates' still need a massive cash bond to be left.