JST
Shoda Auto

Sri Lanka Vehicle Import Support

Import Vehicles from Japan to Sri Lanka

Shoda Auto helps customers source and import vehicles with warranty support from Japanese auctions and dealer networks, check manufacture-year information, request month-level support, estimate import costs and arrange export and shipping from Japan to Sri Lanka.

Plan Before You Purchase

Check the Vehicle Before You Buy

Sri Lankan import eligibility and taxes depend on details such as the vehicle category, manufacture year, manufacture month, engine capacity, fuel type and value. Use our tools to check key details before purchasing.

Check the Manufacture Year and Month

Passenger vehicles imported into Sri Lanka are generally subject to a maximum age limit of three years. Check the available manufacture-year information and request month-level support using the vehicle's frame number before bidding or purchasing.

Estimate the Import Cost

Estimate the CIF value, applicable import duties and taxes, and expected import cost using the vehicle specifications and purchase information.

Vehicle age limits differ for certain categories, and regulations may change. Calculator results are estimates and do not represent a final customs assessment.

Personal Vehicle Imports

Can You Personally Import a Vehicle?

An individual who is not registered as a motor vehicle importer may import a vehicle for personal use, subject to the applicable import regulations, banking arrangements and other requirements.

Current regulations generally permit a non-registered importer to import one vehicle within a twelve-month period.

Shoda Auto supports the Japan side of the process, including vehicle sourcing, import with warranty support, purchase or auction assistance, export documentation, inspection coordination and shipping. Customs clearance and registration in Sri Lanka should be handled by the importer and an appointed local clearing agent.

Request Personal Import Support

Before purchasing, confirm:

  • The vehicle's manufacture year, month support, and import eligibility
  • The applicable vehicle category and specifications
  • The estimated duties, taxes and destination-side costs
  • The required Letter of Credit or banking arrangements
  • Customs-clearance and registration requirements in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Import Steps

From Purchase to Clearance

A straightforward overview of purchasing and importing your vehicle from Japan to Sri Lanka.

01

Purchase Your Vehicle

Share your requirements and review suitable vehicles from Japanese auctions and dealer networks within your budget.

02

Arrange the Letter of Credit

After securing the vehicle, use the proforma invoice provided by Shoda Auto to arrange the required Letter of Credit through your bank in Sri Lanka.

03

Inspection and Shipping

Shoda Auto coordinates the required Japan-side inspection, export documentation and shipment of the vehicle to Sri Lanka.

04

Customs Clearance

Once the vehicle arrives, pay the applicable duties and complete customs clearance and registration with the relevant Sri Lankan authorities.

Understanding the Cost

What Makes Up the Import Cost?

The Japanese auction or dealer price is only one part of the total amount.

Shoda Auto can help you understand the Japan-side costs and estimate the Sri Lankan import cost using the available vehicle information. Final customs valuation, duties and local charges should be confirmed with Sri Lanka Customs and your clearing agent.

Calculate Estimated Cost

Your import estimate may include:

  • Vehicle purchase or auction price
  • Auction fees and inland transportation in Japan
  • Export documentation and inspection costs
  • Freight and marine insurance
  • Currency conversion
  • Sri Lankan import duties and taxes
  • Port, customs-clearance and registration expenses

Planning to Import a Vehicle from Japan?

Check the manufacture year, month-level details, and estimated import cost before purchasing. If you already have a vehicle, frame number or auction listing, send us the details and we'll help you review the next steps from Japan.

Import requirements, tax rates and banking procedures may change. Information on this page is provided for general guidance and is not legal, customs or financial advice. Confirm current requirements with the relevant Sri Lankan authorities, your bank and clearing agent before purchasing.