Customs charges depend on the engine size, the country where the car was made, whether it is a petrol, hybrid or electric model, and on rules that the government revises. Published guides do not always agree with each other, and some give totals that do not match their own components. For a decision involving this much money, use the current figures from the Egyptian Customs Authority or a licensed customs broker.
Origin matters too. Cars from some countries and trade agreement partners are treated more favourably than others, and the rules for electric and hybrid cars have been changing.
Speak to a licensed customs broker before you buy or ship, and ask for a written estimate of the complete cost. The car’s price abroad is often only a part of the final bill.
You do not pay customs yourself, because the duty was paid when the car was imported. However, a few points are worth checking.
The last two are checks that our inspection includes, and the first needs to be asked directly. The traffic department or a legal adviser can confirm the rules for your case.
Customs and taxes are one of the main reasons cars cost more in Egypt than in many other countries. We look at the whole picture in why car prices are so high in Egypt.
A straight answer to each of these is a good sign. Vague answers are not proof of a problem, but they are a reason to ask for the papers before you ask about the price.
Two cars of the same model and year can end up with different final costs depending on how and when they were brought in, and what condition they were in on arrival. That is one reason the asking price alone is a poor guide. What you want to compare is the car you can see and the papers you can read, not the story behind the number.
We can tell you the condition of the car: the body, the paint, the engine, the gearbox, the electronics and the numbers on the chassis and engine. We can tell you whether the car looks like it has been in an accident or repainted. We cannot tell you what the customs charges should have been, and we do not give advice on import rules. For that, speak to the Egyptian Customs Authority or a customs broker.
The two checks do different jobs. The papers tell you the car entered the country properly. The inspection tells you what shape it is in. You want both before you pay.
If you are buying an imported used car, an inspection can confirm that the chassis and engine numbers match the papers and that the car’s condition matches the price you are paying. We do not advise on customs rules or handle imports, but we can tell you the condition of the car in front of you. For the details, read the pre-purchase car inspection guide.
To book, call or message us on WhatsApp at +20 122 237 3204 (01222373204). Our mobile inspection can come to the car anywhere in Cairo and Giza, and our centre is in Nasr City.
Buying a Car in Egypt 
Buying a Car in Egypt 
Buying a Car in Egypt 
Buying a Car in Egypt 
