Expert: Sandra - 2/22/2011

Question
Hi Sandra,  I am planning on moving to Brazil in a few years with my wife who is Brazilian.  We currently live in California.  I have been envisioning driving there when we make the move.  Not only would the trip be epic but I also know that cars in Brazil are expensive so that way we could have a nice car there.  I have been there quite a few times.  I would love to have a nice 4x4 while I am living there.  I have read that only new cars and over 30 year old classics can be imported.  How about driving a used car down there?  Would I be denied from entering the country?  Would I have to pay taxes?  I have also heard that when you move there you can ship your personal belongings import tax free.  Would this include vehicle(s)?  In this case can I ship a used car?  Ideally I would love to drive down there and not have to pay import taxes.  Is there anyway I can do this?  Also, I would have friend who wants to come along with his own vehicle and possibly sell it there.  Sounds like this is not possible, but worth a shot at asking.  Thanks in advance for your wisdom.

Answer
How do you cross the Darian Gap by car?  :-)

If you bring a new car, you will spend in taxes equal to what the value would be in Brazil i.e. 2X. You can't bring a used car unless you take it out again within 6 months (I believe) and do a lot of paperwork even for that. You can't ship anything with a motor legally, not even a golf cart or electric lawn trimmer or chainsaw, not even with your personal belongings in a move for permanent residence. (A good way to get the container/cartons with all your possessions stopped for months at customs, while being charged high storage fees, is to try this.)