Step-by-Step Guide to Clear a Truck at Lusaka Customs
Importing a Japanese used truck into Zambia is an exciting investment. However, one of the most important steps before putting your vehicle to work is customs clearance. Whether your truck arrives via Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) or Durban (South Africa), it must go through proper clearance once it reaches Lusaka Customs.
This guide will help you understand each step, required documents, and useful tips to ensure a smooth process.
Why Customs Clearance Is Important
Customs clearance ensures that all imported vehicles meet Zambia’s legal, safety, and tax requirements. Completing this process properly allows you to:
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Register the vehicle with the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA).
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Avoid penalties or fines.
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Ensure ownership and legal road use.
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Get your vehicle released quickly for operation.
A little preparation goes a long way toward avoiding unnecessary costs or delays.
Step 1: Prepare Your Import Documents
Before visiting Lusaka Customs, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. These documents include:
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Bill of Lading (B/L) – proof of shipment and ownership.
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Export Certificate (Deregistration Certificate) – issued by Japan’s authorities.
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Commercial Invoice & Packing List – shows price and shipment details.
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Pre-Export Inspection Certificate (ZABS/Intertek) – ensures compliance with Zambian standards.
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Insurance Certificate – confirms marine coverage during shipping.
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Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN) – required by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
Having all these ready will make your customs process much faster.
Step 2: Engage a Licensed Clearing Agent
It’s highly recommended to use a licensed clearing agent in Zambia. Agents understand the customs system and can handle paperwork, tax calculation, and inspections on your behalf.
A good clearing agent will:
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Submit your documents electronically through the ASYCUDA World System.
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Calculate duties and taxes based on your truck’s CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).
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Coordinate with the ZRA and port authorities for release.
Working with a professional ensures compliance with import laws and saves you from costly mistakes.
Step 3: Pay Import Duties and Taxes
Once your agent files the documents, the ZRA will assess the import duties. Common fees include:
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Import Duty: 25% of CIF value.
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Excise Duty: 20% (varies by vehicle type).
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Value Added Tax (VAT): 16%.
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Carbon Emission Fee: based on engine size.
Payments can be made through ZRA’s bank partners or digital platforms. Always keep the payment receipts safely stored for vehicle registration later.
Step 4: Physical Inspection at Lusaka Customs
After payment, the truck undergoes a physical inspection. ZRA officers verify the details of your documents against the actual vehicle.
They check:
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Chassis and engine numbers.
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Vehicle condition.
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Compliance with ZABS inspection results.
If everything matches, the truck is cleared for release.
Step 5: Obtain the Customs Clearance Certificate
Once your vehicle passes inspection and all payments are confirmed, Lusaka Customs issues a Customs Clearance Certificate (CCC). This is proof that your truck has been legally imported into Zambia.
You’ll need this certificate for registration with RTSA. Without it, you cannot obtain license plates or operate the vehicle legally.
Step 6: Delivery and Final Registration
After clearance, your clearing agent or transport company will deliver the truck to your desired location—usually Lusaka, Ndola, or Kitwe.
Then, visit RTSA with the following:
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Customs Clearance Certificate.
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Commercial Invoice and Proof of Ownership.
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Roadworthy and insurance documents.
Once registered, your vehicle will receive a Zambian number plate and official registration card, allowing you to start operations.
Useful Tips for Smooth Clearance
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Use a trusted exporter like EVERY Co. Ltd (EVERYCAR.jp) for correct documents and pre-shipment inspection.
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Confirm your clearing agent’s license through the Zambia Revenue Authority.
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Avoid false declarations—they can lead to heavy fines or confiscation.
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Keep digital copies of all import and customs documents.
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Track your shipment from Japan to Zambia for timely coordination.
Why Choose EVERY Co. Ltd (EVERYCAR.jp)?
EVERY Co. Ltd has been exporting Japanese trucks, buses, and tractors to Zambia since 2006. With over 18 years of experience, we provide:
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Accurate and complete documentation.
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Real-time shipping updates.
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Marine insurance and inspection support.
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Professional coordination with Lusaka customs agents.
Our goal is to make importing your truck simple, transparent, and stress-free.
Conclusion
Clearing your truck at Lusaka Customs is a straightforward process when you have the right documents, a reliable clearing agent, and professional exporter support.
By following these steps, you can get your Japanese used truck on Zambian roads faster and with full legal assurance.
For your next import, trust EVERY Co. Ltd (EVERYCAR.jp) — your dependable partner for quality Japanese vehicles, delivered safely and smoothly to Zambia.
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