Why Guatemala suits Korean used cars
Guatemala drives on the right and permits only left-hand-drive (LHD) vehicles for import — right-hand-drive vehicles are categorically prohibited. Every Korean used car is LHD, so the fit is exact. Guatemala is one of Central America's most active used-car markets, with steady demand for durable SUVs, pickups, and vans.
Shipping from Korea
RoRo (car carrier) service from Korea is available to Guatemala. However, sailings are not regularly scheduled and rates vary — contact us and we will check the current schedule and rate for you. Container shipping is also available; container freight works on the basis of two or more vehicles per container, and for single-unit orders we check the available options and costs at the time of inquiry.
We have shipped to Puerto Quetzal on the Pacific coast — based on our recent shipments, the journey takes about 60 days. Santo Tomás de Castilla on the Atlantic side is also used for Guatemala-bound cargo.
Import rules and taxes at a glance
(Rules and rates can change — confirm the latest requirements before ordering.)
- Steering: LHD only; RHD categorically prohibited — every Korean car qualifies
- Vehicle age: a 10-year rule (from manufacture date) is widely cited, though its application is reported to vary case by case — we recommend vehicles within 10 years, and older vehicles should be confirmed with a local customs broker before ordering
- Taxes: import duty (DAI) and VAT (IVA, 12%) are assessed on CIF value; the taxable value may be set using SAT's year/model valuation tables
- Clearance: must be handled through a licensed customs broker (agente aduanero)
- EVs and hybrids: preferential treatment available (terms change — confirm when ordering)
- Documents: original B/L, original purchase invoice, original registration/de-registration papers, importer ID (or NIT), vehicle condition report
When we ship, we courier the original B/L, the Korean Export Declaration, and our inspection sheet.
Models Guatemalan buyers ask for most
- SUVs: Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sorento — durability and parts supply
- Pickups and small trucks: Kia Bongo (K2700) — commercial and delivery demand
- Vans: Hyundai Starex (H-1) — passenger and commercial use
How buying works
Our standard six steps: send your budget, vehicle type, and destination → we send photos of vehicles within your budget → choose your car and we inspect it → pay by international bank transfer (T/T) → we ship → original documents by courier. Before payment you receive the official Vehicle Performance Record plus photos and video, and we report every step in real time. Inquiries in Spanish are welcome.
Start your import
If you are considering importing a vehicle to Guatemala, tell us the model, year, and quantity you have in mind. We will quote the current RoRo and container options together. WhatsApp: +82-10-5595-9890
Considering importing a vehicle from Korea? We reply within 24 hours.
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