Importing a Vehicle to Colombia from the United States
The Colombia car import process can seem complex at first glance, but with proper knowledge, documentation, and planning, it becomes a manageable and even rewarding endeavor. Whether you’re relocating for work, retiring, or simply drawn to the practicality of bringing your own vehicle to Colombia, understanding the procedures, regulations, and associated costs is crucial for a smooth transition.
From selecting the right shipping method to navigating customs and taxes, this guide walks you through each stage of the process, helping you avoid common pitfalls and prepare for a successful import.
Confirm Vehicle Eligibility
Before anything else, confirm whether your vehicle can legally be imported into Colombia. The Colombian government maintains strict import regulations, particularly to promote environmental standards and protect local industries. Eligible vehicles include:
New cars: Most commonly approved for import, these vehicles must be factory-fresh and meet emission and safety standards.
Classic/Antique cars: Vehicles over 35 years old may be imported as collector’s items, provided you secure certification from the Colombian Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism.
Diplomatic and special-use imports: Diplomats and government officials may qualify for exceptions when bringing in used vehicles.
It is advisable to check the most current import restrictions with Colombian customs or consult with a licensed import agent.
Gather the Required Documents
Accurate documentation is the backbone of a successful import. Here’s a checklist of essential paperwork you’ll need:
Original vehicle title and registration: To prove ownership.
Commercial invoice: Details the purchase price and vehicle specifications.
Import license: Required from the Colombian Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism.
Emission compliance certificate: Must confirm compliance with Colombia’s emission standards.
Bill of Lading: Issued by the shipping company, detailing the transport of the vehicle.
Photocopies of passport and identification documents: For registration purposes.
Make sure all foreign documents are translated into Spanish and properly legalized or apostilled to avoid delays at customs.
Choose the Right Shipping Option
Colombia is well-served by several major ports, making ocean freight the preferred method for vehicle import. Two primary shipping methods are available:
Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): Vehicles are driven onto a cargo ship and secured. This is typically the most cost-effective option but does expose the car to potential damage from the environment.
Container shipping: Your car is placed in a secure container, offering added protection during transit. This option is ideal for high-value or luxury vehicles.
Popular U.S. ports for exporting cars to Colombia include Miami, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York/New Jersey. On the Colombian side, major ports such as Cartagena, Buenaventura, and Santa Marta receive international vehicle shipments.
Calculate Import Taxes and Duties
A critical factor in the car import process is understanding the full cost, which includes various taxes and fees:
Import duty: Usually around 35% of the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
Value-Added Tax (VAT): Currently set at 16%, calculated on the CIF value plus import duties.
Consumption tax: Ranges from 8% to 16%, depending on engine size and type of vehicle.
Here’s a simplified example: If your car is worth $20,000 with $2,000 in shipping/insurance, total CIF = $22,000.
- Duties (35%) = $7,700
- VAT (16%) = $3,840
- Consumption tax (say 8%) = $1,760
- Total taxes = $13,300, making your total cost around $35,300
For an up-to-date breakdown of import tariffs, you can refer to the World Trade Organization’s Tariff Database, which provides official trade and tariff data by country.
Meet Emission and Safety Standards
Environmental compliance is non-negotiable. Colombia follows Euro 6b emissions standards, ensuring all new vehicle imports meet eco-friendly guidelines. An emissions certificate from the manufacturer must be authenticated by a Colombian consulate in the U.S. and presented to customs upon arrival.
For further guidance on moving best practices and regulations, consider consulting authoritative sources such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). They provide comprehensive information on interstate moving regulations, consumer rights, and safety guidelines.
