Guatemala -

Import Regulations,

Laws, & Duty Taxes

Vehicle import Eligibility

Guatemala allows the importation of used and new vehicles, provided they meet local customs and environmental requirements.

Eligible Vehicle Types:

• Passenger vehicles (sedans, SUVs, vans)
• Pickup trucks
• Motorcycles
• Commercial vehicles
• Heavy machinery (with special permits)

⚠️ Age Restrictions:

Used vehicles are generally limited to 10 years or newer, depending on vehicle type and condition.

Vehicles older than this may be restricted or subject to special approval.

Duty Taxes & Fees

Vehicle import costs in Guatemala are based on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).

Approximate Estimated Charges:

• Import Duty:         10% – 15%
• Value Added Tax (IVA):     12%
• Environmental / Special Fees: May apply depending on vehicle type
• Customs Processing Fees

⚠️ Final taxes are assessed by Guatemalan customs and may vary.

"El menaje de casa"

(Returning residents)

Guatemala allows the importation of household goods (Menaje de Casa) for individuals relocating to the country.

Requirements:

• Must be for personal use
• Items must be used (not new)
• Inventory list in Spanish
• Proof of residency or immigration status
• Arrival of goods must align with residency timeline

Household goods may qualify for partial or full tax exemptions, depending on the applicant’s status.

Important notes and recommendations

To import a vehicle into Guatemala, the following documents are typically required:

• Original vehicle title
• Bill of sale or commercial invoice
• Valid passport or Guatemalan ID (DPI)
• Tax Identification Number (NIT)
• Import declaration (DUCA)
• Power of Attorney (if using a customs broker)
• Vehicle inspection and emissions compliance (if applicable)

All documents must be accurate and may need to be translated into Spanish.

🚢 Shipping Methods Available

MGR Auto Transport offers multiple shipping options to Guatemala:

• Ro/Ro (Roll-On/Roll-Off): Most economical for operable vehicles
• Container Shipping: Ideal for high-value vehicles or combined cargo
• Consolidated Containers: Cost-effective option for smaller shipments

We ship to major Guatemalan ports such as Puerto Quetzal and Santo Tomás de Castilla.

⏱️ Transit Time Estimates

U.S. East Coast to Guatemala: 2–4 weeks

U.S. West Coast to Guatemala: 4–6 weeks
(Transit times may vary based on port schedules and customs clearance.)