Buying in the United States gives you more models, trims and years, from dealers, private sellers or auctions like Copart and IAAI. You buy the vehicle; IMPOCAR brings it to you. Our truck picks it up in Florida or nearby states and takes it to our yard in Davie, Florida (or you drop it off there), and from there we ship it to Costa Rica. If it is farther away in the U.S., we arrange transport directly to the nearest port.
Step by step
- Choose the vehicle and estimate the total cost, including import taxes, which are reviewed for each vehicle.
- Check that it can be imported (age and condition) and review its history by VIN.
- You buy the vehicle (directly, from a seller or at auction) and keep the bill of sale and original title.
- Land transport: we pick up the vehicle in Florida or nearby states and bring it to our yard in Davie, Florida (or you drop it off); from farther locations, directly to the nearest port.
- Ocean shipping to Costa Rica.
- Customs clearance through a customs broker in Costa Rica.
- Final steps: the vehicle technical inspection (RTV), plates and registration with the Registro Nacional.
Route and transit time
We ship your vehicle to the port of your choice in Costa Rica. Transit time depends on the carrier, departure port and sailing date; we give you an estimate with your quote.
Age and condition restrictions
Costa Rica has import restrictions based on the age and condition of the vehicle (for example, damaged vehicles or certain title types), and these rules can change. Before you buy, check that your vehicle can be imported; we are happy to review it with you when you request a quote.
Taxes in Costa Rica
Importing a vehicle into Costa Rica does involve paying taxes at customs clearance. The amount is not the same for everyone: it varies by vehicle (type, year and value, among other factors), and the regulations changed recently. That is why the exact amount should be checked for each vehicle before you buy.
IMPOCAR helps you review it when you request a quote on WhatsApp at +506 8301 0303 or through the site form, so you know the full cost before deciding.
Usual documents
Original (endorsed) title, bill of sale, bill of lading (BL) and importer ID; then the customs declaration (DUA), the RTV inspection and the registration documents.
FAQ
How much tax will I pay to import a car into Costa Rica?
It depends on each vehicle, so it must be checked case by case. Send us the car details on WhatsApp and we will help you review it with your quote.
Can I import any vehicle?
There are restrictions based on the age and condition of the vehicle. Check before you buy; we review it with you when you request a quote.
Do you buy the vehicle?
No. You buy it; we pick it up (including from auctions like Copart or IAAI) and import it.
How much does shipping cost?
Pricing for Costa Rica is by prior quote. Message us on WhatsApp at +506 8301 0303 or use the site form.