Ship Car to San Jose with Trusted International Transport

Car Shipping San Jose

How to Ship Your Vehicle from the United States to San Jose, Costa Rica.

Cost & Time For Shipments

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save the ground cost by delivering to the nearest port.

*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.

Understanding Import Taxes and Fees

Importing a vehicle into Costa Rica involves taxes and fees, which vary based on the car's age and value. For instance, vehicles under three years old are subject to approximately 52.29% in taxes, while those between four and five face around 63.91%. Cars older than six years can incur taxes up to 79.03% of their value. Additionally, a 13% value-added tax applies to most imports. It's essential to factor in these costs when budgeting for your vehicle shipment.

Navigating the Customs Clearance Process

Upon arrival in Costa Rica, your vehicle will undergo a customs clearance process, which includes inspections to ensure compliance with local regulations. This process can assign your vehicle a green, yellow, or red light status, determining the level of inspection required. All necessary documentation, such as the original title, bill of lading, and proof of insurance, can facilitate a smoother clearance process.

Considering Vehicle Suitability and Maintenance

Before shipping your car, assess its suitability for Costa Rican roads and the availability of maintenance services. Some vehicles that are popular in the U.S. may be uncommon in Costa Rica, leading to challenges in finding spare parts and qualified mechanics. Opting for cars widely used in Costa Rica can ensure easier maintenance and repair services.

*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to haul internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.

*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive and allows for faster shipments. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

Whether you are in the research phases of transitioning to Costa Rica, either temporarily or permanently, there can be a lot of confusion and a lack of empathy for the stresses that can be endured when relocating to another country. The most cost-effective tool you can use is accurate and current information to avoid costly mistakes. The following information is provided to help us relocate in the best way possible.

The first thing to do is determine if you need to have your auto for over 90 days or longer. This will determine what type of permission you request for the allowance to enter the country. The second is to contact a company that provides quality moving from the U.S. to San Jose, Costa Rica. Once you have done this step, you should find that the agent can assist you and make the process much easier. The companies that provide this service are usually pretty knowledgeable. The reputable companies must routinely abide by current laws, regulations, and security. This typically provides much greater relief with less stress and less time involved.

Temporary Entry Permit- This permit is valid for 90 days. It is possible to apply for an extension if necessary. However, it is highly recommended that this permission be requested before your 90-day permit expires by contacting the Costa Rica customs authorities. This permit allows for the avoidance of taxes and importation fees. The following is needed for this type of permit.....

Required Documents:

1) Vehicle Registration Papers

2) U.S Driver's License

3) Valid Passport

IMPORTATION—If you decide on a period longer than 90 days, this is the option you would choose. This option meets Costa Rica's requirements for importing your car into the country with more permanent intentions.

Required Documents:

1) Proof of Ownership

2) A document showing proof of the VIN

3) Original Purchase Invoice

4) Current Emissions test certificate

Once it arrives in Costa Rica, the owner must retrieve it from the point of entry in San Jose, Costa Rica, for the customs clearing. If this is something you would like to avoid, it is recommended that you use a broker or clearing agent to clear your auto through the customs process. This assures that all taxes, duties, and requirements are met quickly and correctly. You can request a Clearing agent / Broker when making arrangements through your agent of choice.

Import Taxes.

Unfortunately, multiple Import taxes are due when you choose to import. However, having your vehicle can eliminate many other things that can outweigh the expenses of the alternatives. The Ministry of Finance collects taxes for all autos imported into the country. The taxes vary greatly, depending on many factors. Age of vehicle, Value, cost & insurance are all considered in determining the import taxes due. The Ministry of Finance has provided a valuable calculation tool to help you and them decide what will be required for the taxes on it. This tool and calculation, unfortunately, is not to the benefit of the importer and is very much manipulative proof in any attempt to minimize the value, hence the import taxes that will be due.

*The only way to avoid taxes is by importing an electric-powered auto. This exception is granted through the Ministry of Environment, Energy, & Telecommunications

Registering & Insuring.

Once you have cleared customs, the next step is to Insure with the minimum liability insurance required. Proof of this insurance is necessary to register in the country. You can visit www.ins-cr.com for all insurance information and options for a policy that suits you, along with calculating fees and costs to obtain your policy. To begin this process, you must provide the following.

Plan for a Smoother Experience

Shipping a car internationally is a significant decision that benefits significantly from early planning. Give yourself ample time to gather documents, understand local import rules, and compare shipping methods like RoRo or container shipping. The more time you allow to coordinate with your shipping agent and prepare your vehicle, the less likely you will encounter delays or unexpected costs once your car arrives in Costa Rica.

Your Car, Ready for Costa Rica Roads

Once your vehicle clears customs in San José, you’ll be ready to explore the country confidently. Whether navigating the city’s bustling neighborhoods or heading to the coast, having your own car can offer convenience, flexibility, and independence. Just be sure to get familiar with local driving laws and registration procedures so you can hit the road without a hitch.

Required Documents:

• Proof of Import ( this shows you have met the clearing requirements by customs)

• Passport

Note—The RTV needs to be renewed every year if your auto is over 5 years old and every 2 years if it is under 5.

Once you have registered & Insured your Vehicle.

Once you have completed obtaining your registration and insurance, the last and final step is to pay your "Marchamo." The "Marchamo" is an added annual road tax implemented by Costa Rica to be renewed/paid every year. The proof of your tax payment is a sticker that should be placed and visible on your front windshield. Failure to have this current sticker is illegal and, unfortunately, not taken lightly. In most cases, impounding with substantial fines will be implemented until the taxes are paid.

Driving Laws & Regulations.

Congratulations, you should, at this point, be in legal, lawful possession to drive in the country. You are permitted to use your original country's valid driver's license. However, it is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself in advance with the specific rules/laws, signs, customary practices ( lawful & unlawful), and road etiquette you may encounter in your travels.

Drive Safe & Pura Vida!!