
Car Shipping Georgetown
Georgetown is the capital of Guyana and Region 4. This area is also known as the most significant urban center. It is on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean coast near the Demerara River and is called 'The Garden City of the Caribbean.'
Because it is a part of the Caribbean, Guyana is a popular tourist attraction, and people who come here enjoy staying for a while when possible. U.S. citizens have purchased property to have a place to stay when in the country. Extending your stay in Guyana may require that you bring over your vehicle from the U.S so you can have something to travel in while you are staying. Guyana has beautiful rainforests that people around the world come to observe and preserve the wildlife within it.
Shipping Methods and Transit Times
Two primary shipping methods are available when transporting a vehicle to Georgetown: roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and container shipping. RoRo is often more economical, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the vehicle's size and the departure port. Container shipping offers added protection and is suitable for high-value or non-operational vehicles, typically costing between $2,000 and $4,000. Transit times vary based on the shipping method and origin, ranging from 15 to 30 days.
Import Regulations and Documentation
Guyana has specific import regulations that must be adhered to. Only right-hand drive vehicles are permitted, and while there is no strict age limit, cars over four years old may be subject to higher taxes . Essential documentation includes the original bill of lading, commercial invoice, vehicle title, and registration. It's advisable to engage a licensed customs broker to navigate the customs clearance process efficiently.
Taxes and Duties
Importing a vehicle into Guyana incurs various taxes and duties, which are influenced by engine capacity and age factors. For cars under four, customs duties can be around 45%, with excise taxes ranging from 10% to 110%, and a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 14%. Vehicles over four years old may be subject to different tax structures, often involving flat rates or higher percentages based on engine size.
Price & Time Examples For Shifting
To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
---|---|---|---|
New York, NY to (New York port) to the Area | $275 | $2400 | 5+15 days |
Los Angeles to (California port) to the Area | $350 | $3300 | 5+22 days |
Georgetown to (California port) to Las Vegas, NV | $450 | $3300 | 5+22 days |
City Limits to (California port) to Portland, OR | $475 | $3300 | 6+22 days |
Seattle, WA to (California port) to the Area | $550 | $3300 | 6+22 days |
Local Delievry to (New York port) to Columbus, OH | $550 | $2400 | 5+15 days |
City Limits to (New York port) to Charlotte, NC | $575 | $2400 | 6+15 days |
Atlanta, GA to (New York port) to the Area | $700 | $2400 | 6+15 days |
City Limits to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $3300 | 7+22 days |
Georgetown to (New York port) to Houston, TX | $1,075 | $2400 | 7+15 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for 1 car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to haul a vehicle internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
*Using the RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and loads can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.
Requirements For Dispatching A Vehicle
When you import your vehicle from the United States, Guyana has fewer restrictions than in other countries. You must have the correct forms and proper documentation to shift without any problems. All duties and taxes for moving to it must be paid before you can have possession of your ride. The rates are very high. You will have to modify your vehicle to meet requirements for driving in the area, for example, the steering wheel must be on the right-hand side of the car. The vehicle cannot be more than five years old. The duties are less expensive on vehicles. Small trucks cannot weigh more than three tons and are under four years old.
When calculating the cost of hauling a vehicle here, it helps to consider that the customs duties are 150% with an additional 16% VAT and the range of Excise taxes is 10-110%.
Documents You Will Need To Provide
To avoid delays, having all your paperwork done and ready before your ship date will be mandatory. Some of these include:

- Driver's license.
- Passport.
- Proof of ownership of the vehicle.
- The title of the car.
- Registration of the car.
- Customs entry document.
- Temporary insurance for Guyana.
- A copy of the duty-free letter sent from the Secretary to the Treasury.
Delivery Methods To The Area
There are two different methods for shifting your vehicle to Guyana. Roll On/ Roll Off is the most preferred method because your car is rolled onto the ship and rolled off. The vehicle must be empty except for a spare tire, floor mats, and a jack.
Picking Up Your Vehicle in Georgetown
Once your car arrives at the Port of Georgetown, it will go through local customs inspection. Having all paperwork in order before pickup is crucial to avoid delays or storage fees. Most U.S. shippers recommend using a local agent in Georgetown who can help coordinate release from the port and ensure everything is cleared correctly. Before releasing your vehicle, you must also pay any remaining duties or port handling charges.
Driving Legally in Guyana
Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle complies with Guyana’s local road laws. Right-hand drive is required, and your vehicle may need a basic safety inspection. While U.S. licenses are accepted quickly, getting a temporary local permit is recommended if you stay longer. Additionally, insurance is mandatory, so arrange coverage before driving off the port. Being fully compliant ensures a smooth transition to moving in Georgetown’s urban and rural landscapes.

Container shipping is another hauling method that you may want to choose. You will have two choices in the size of containers: 20 feet or 40 feet. Your vehicle will fit into the container, and then you can move other household items. This will be a little more expensive but it will get all your items to Guyana sooner rather than later. Any household items placed inside the container must be approved by Guyana Revenue Authority. You can share your container with someone else to keep your costs down. If you need your vehicle imported very quickly, you may want to consider air cargo for your vehicle. However, it should be pointed out that this is the most expensive way to ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to ship a car to Georgetown, Guyana?
To ship a car to Georgetown, you'll need the original title, bill of sale, bill of lading, and a copy of your passport. If the vehicle was previously registered, a de-registration certificate is also necessary. Engaging a licensed customs broker can help ensure all paperwork is correctly submitted to avoid delays.
Are there restrictions on the type of vehicles I can import into Guyana?
Yes, Guyana permits only right-hand drive vehicles for importation. While there's no strict age limit, vehicles older than four years may be subject to higher taxes. It's advisable to verify the latest import regulations before shipping.
How long does it take to ship a car from the USA to Georgetown?
Shipping times vary based on the method and origin. Generally, it takes about 15–30 days via Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) or container shipping. Factors like customs clearance and port schedules can influence the exact duration.
What taxes and duties will I need to pay when importing a car into Guyana?
Importing a vehicle into Guyana involves several taxes: Customs Duty (ranging from 45% to 150% based on engine size), Excise Tax (10% to 110%), and a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 14%. The exact amount depends on the vehicle's age, engine capacity, and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value.
Can I drive my imported car immediately upon arrival in Georgetown?
After clearing customs, you'll need to register the vehicle locally and obtain insurance before driving. Additionally, securing a temporary local driving permit is recommended if you plan to stay for an extended period. Ensuring compliance with local regulations will facilitate a smooth transition to driving in Guyana.