Japanese Used Cars for Solomon Islands – Import Rules & Shipping

We have not identified a current general nationwide rule that prohibits an imported used vehicle solely because it exceeds a particular age.

However, import rules and vehicle-registration requirements can change. Customers should confirm the current eligibility of the particular vehicle before bidding or purchasing in Japan.

The Solomon Islands drives on the left side of the road, making right-hand-drive Japanese vehicles suitable for normal road use.

Import duty depends on the vehicle's Customs tariff classification and the rates in force at the time of import. There is not one universal duty percentage that should be applied to every vehicle.

Imported goods are currently generally subject to 15% Goods Tax. The importer pays Goods Tax to Customs at the port of entry.

The previous fixed 10%–15% duty and 19% Goods Tax figures displayed on this page have therefore been removed. Customers should obtain a current vehicle-specific calculation from Solomon Islands Customs or their clearing agent before purchasing.

Solomon Islands Customs uses the ASYCUDA World system for Customs declarations. The correct tariff classification, Customs value and supporting documents are required for assessment and clearance.

Documentation such as permits, licences or other certificates must be provided where applicable. Importers should work with their local customs agent to confirm the current requirements before the vehicle arrives.

Used and second-hand vehicles are subject to biosecurity inspection on arrival in the Solomon Islands.

Vehicles must be free from soil, plant material and other biosecurity risk material. Biosecurity Solomon Islands recommends that vehicles are thoroughly cleaned before departure from the exporting country.

A cleanliness certificate issued by a government or accredited agent may assist the inspection process, but importers should confirm current requirements before shipment.

Vehicles operating on public roads must be properly registered and licensed in the Solomon Islands.

Current road-transport procedures include vehicle inspection and compliance checks. Inspections may be required before initial registration, during licence renewal, following an ownership transfer or where a compliance issue is identified.

Inspection checks can include brakes, steering, lights, tyres, windscreen, mirrors, safety equipment and the general structural condition of the vehicle.

The Solomon Islands Ports Authority operates the country's two main international ports: Honiara Port and Noro Port.

Kaede Trading can arrange vehicle shipping from Japan, subject to current shipping-line schedules, vessel space, vehicle type and destination.

We do not quote a fixed monthly schedule or fixed 6–8 week transit time because Pacific shipping services can change. Customers should request a current freight quotation and sailing schedule before purchasing.

Documents commonly used when importing a Japanese vehicle into the Solomon Islands include:

• Commercial or purchase invoice
• Bill of Lading
• Japanese export or deregistration certificate
• Customs declaration and valuation information
• Vehicle chassis, engine and manufacture details
• Biosecurity clearance documentation
• Permits, licences or certificates where applicable
• Other documents requested by Customs or transport authorities

Customers should confirm the latest documentation requirements with their customs agent before shipment.

Kaede Trading sources vehicles from major Japanese used-car auctions. We can provide available auction information and help customers select vehicles according to condition, budget and Solomon Islands requirements.

Where available, a third-party pre-bid inspection may also be requested for additional condition information before bidding.

We recommend confirming current Customs costs and local vehicle eligibility before bidding.

Import rules, Customs tariffs, roadworthiness procedures and shipping services can change. Please confirm current requirements before purchasing or shipping a vehicle.

Kaede Trading can assist with Japanese auction sourcing, vehicle information, export documentation and shipping arrangements from Japan to the Solomon Islands.

Last reviewed: 24 August 2026