
Car Shipping Lima
Lima is the main city and the capital of Peru. It is located in the Chillion Valley between the Rimac and Lurin rivers, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The city forms a large urban area commonly known as the Lima Metropolitan Area.
The import of a vehicle into the city requires a well-researched procedure, which demands that you be armed with accurate and appropriate information. You should also be backed by a reliable shipping company such as A-1 Auto Transport, which will definitely reduce the effort in the process.
Peru's Vehicle Import Restrictions
When planning to ship your car to Lima, being aware of Peru's stringent import regulations is crucial. The country prohibits the importation of used vehicles older than five years or those with mileage exceeding 80,000 kilometers (approximately 49,710 miles). Additionally, vehicles must be left-hand drive and meet specific emission standards, including a carbon monoxide emission limit of 9% by volume. Diesel vehicles are generally restricted, and importing damaged or salvage-title vehicles is prohibited. Ensuring your vehicle complies with these regulations is essential to avoid complications during the import process.
Import Taxes and Duties
Importing a car into Peru involves several taxes and duties that can significantly impact the overall cost. For new vehicles, expect to pay a 9% ad valorem tax, a 19% sales tax, and an additional 10% of the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value. Used vehicles incur higher charges, including a 9% ad valorem tax, a 30% selective consumption tax, and a 19% sales tax, totaling approximately 72% of the CIF value. A perception tax of 5% also applies to both new and used vehicles. These taxes are calculated based on the vehicle's value, shipping costs, and insurance, emphasizing the importance of accurate documentation and valuation.
Choose the Right Partner for a Smooth Experience
Car shipping to Lima involves a unique set of rules, inspections, and logistics. Working with an experienced international transport company ensures you’re not navigating the process alone. From helping you meet environmental standards to managing customs paperwork, a qualified partner takes the guesswork out of the equation. With the proper support, you can enjoy a seamless shipping experience and confidently get your vehicle on the road in Lima.
Documents you will need.
National Customs Superintendency of Peru requires that you fill out a form of Unique Customs Declaration,, for which you will need:

- Identification number of the vehicle.
- Details of registration.
- Type-Approved Number.
- Invoice of purchase.
- Bill of Lading.
- Optional insurance policy.
Some additional requirements would restrict the import of cars older than 5 years and with more than 50,000 miles on them. You can expect to pay about 10% tax on new vehicles and up to 30% on older vehicles. The taxes are strictly dependent on the import value of the car, as well as the shipping and insurance charges. There are other considerations such as:
- The car must not have been involved in a significant accident or be damaged.
- The car must have a right-sided steering wheel.
- The car must pass the emission tests before being shipped.
Even though it may seem like a good idea to drive from the USA to Peru, this is physically impossible because there isn’t a road connecting Panama and Colombia. Thus, hire an experienced company such as A-1 Auto Transport, which has over two decades of expertise in shipping vehicles to South America.
You must make sure to properly steam clean your vehicle before shipping it. This would make sure that it is not going to get quarantined, and it would speed up the entire process. This is also important because the vehicle won’t be transported to a quarantine facility and a cleaning facility, which will take up a lot of time. These procedures will only slow you down, so bypassing them is pretty beneficial. You should also ensure to get rid of air-conditioning gases and refer to Title 19 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations for further information.
The Ro/Ro shipping method involves driving the car onto the actual shipping deck using the wheels. The car is then fastened to prevent any possible complications. This is the most preferred method of transportation as it is the cheapest. It is the best way to transport vehicles with wheels. The vessels are specifically equipped with ramps that will aid you in driving the car on the decks.

The other form of transportation is a container, which allows you to place your vehicle inside it. The sizes vary, but the most common ones are 20 feet and 40 feet, which are spacious enough to hold a lot of goods. Using a container to ship your vehicle has a lot of merit because you can use the leftover space for other luggage and share the container with another person to reduce the cost. It is, however, slightly more expensive.
Final Checklist Before Shipping to Lima
Before sending your vehicle to Lima, double-check that all documentation is complete and accurate. This includes your vehicle title, purchase invoice, passport, residency documents, and a detailed bill of lading. Ensure your vehicle meets Peru’s eligibility criteria and confirm all taxes and fees with customs authorities or your shipping agent. Proper preparation speeds up customs clearance and helps you avoid costly delays or rejections at the port.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from the U.S. to Lima, Peru?
Shipping a car to Lima typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,800, depending on factors like the vehicle's size, shipping method (RoRo or container), and departure port. Additional costs may include destination charges, import duties, and taxes.
What documents are required to ship a car to Lima?
Essential documents include the original vehicle title, bill of sale, valid identification (such as a passport), and a bill of lading. Additional paperwork may be necessary to comply with both U.S. export regulations and Peruvian import requirements.
What are the import taxes and VAT when shipping a car to Lima?
Importing a car into Peru typically incurs a 6% import duty and an 18% value-added tax (VAT) on the vehicle's value plus shipping costs. These rates are based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of the vehicle.
Can I ship a non-running car to Lima, and does it cost more?
Yes, non-operational vehicles can be shipped to Lima, but they require specialized equipment for loading and unloading, which can increase the shipping cost. It's essential to inform the shipping company about the vehicle's condition in advance to ensure proper arrangements and accurate pricing.