Car Import Cost Calculator

Category: Auto
- May 22, 2025
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Calculate the total cost of importing a car to Singapore, including all applicable taxes, duties, and registration fees. This calculator helps potential car importers understand the full financial implications before making a purchase decision.

Vehicle Details

$
The price paid for the vehicle in original currency
L
Engine displacement in liters
g/km
Vehicle's carbon dioxide emissions
years
Enter 0 for brand new vehicles

Import Details

$
Cost to ship vehicle to Singapore
$
Transit insurance for shipping

Additional Options

×
Optional adjustment to LTA's OMV calculation (default 1.0)

About Car Imports to Singapore

Importing a car to Singapore involves several costs and regulatory requirements. The Singapore government imposes significant taxes and duties to control vehicle population and encourage the use of newer, more environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Key Components of Import Costs
  • Open Market Value (OMV): The customs value of the vehicle including purchase price, freight, and insurance
  • Customs Duty: 20% of the OMV for cars
  • Goods & Services Tax (GST): 9% of the sum of OMV and Customs Duty
  • Additional Registration Fee (ARF): Tiered system based on the OMV
  • Certificate of Entitlement (COE): The right to own a vehicle in Singapore for 10 years
  • Registration Fee: Basic fee to register the vehicle
ARF Tier Structure
  • First S$20,000 of OMV: 100% of OMV
  • Next S$30,000 of OMV (S$20,001 to S$50,000): 140% of incremental OMV
  • Above S$50,000 of OMV: 180% of incremental OMV
Important Notes
  • Vehicles must comply with Singapore's emissions standards and technical requirements
  • Vehicles over 3 years old may be subject to additional inspection requirements and surcharges
  • COE prices fluctuate based on supply and demand and are determined through a bidding system
  • Surcharges may apply for vehicles with high emissions under the Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES)
  • Electric vehicles may qualify for rebates under the Electric Vehicle Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI)

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current regulations and average values. Actual import costs may vary based on numerous factors, including changes in government policy, COE prices, exchange rates, and LTA's assessment of the vehicle's value. This tool is for educational purposes only and should not be solely relied upon for financial decisions. Always consult with authorized importing agents or relevant authorities for accurate information.

What Is the Car Import Cost Calculator?

The Car Import Cost Calculator is a helpful online tool for anyone planning to bring a vehicle into Singapore. It estimates the total cost involved in importing and registering a car, taking into account taxes, duties, fees, and Other key expenses. This calculator simplifies the decision-making process by giving a clear picture of potential costs before a purchase is made overseas.

How Does the Calculator Work?

Users enter details such as the purchase price, engine capacity, vehicle type, CO2 emissions, and age of the vehicle. The calculator uses current data and local regulations to generate an estimate of the full cost, including the Open Market Value (OMV), goods and services tax (GST), Additional Registration Fee (ARF), Certificate of Entitlement (COE), and more.

Key Formula Used

Total Cost = OMV + Customs Duty + GST + ARF + COE + VES Adjustment + Registration Fee

Why Use This Calculator?

Importing a vehicle into Singapore involves various charges that may not be immediately obvious. This calculator:

  • Helps users estimate the full cost of vehicle ownership before committing to a purchase
  • Supports informed Financial planning by breaking down each cost component
  • Accounts for vehicle-specific factors such as emissions and age that impact taxes
  • Displays a visual chart for a quick overview of how costs are distributed
  • Offers insights into rebates or surcharges based on the Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES)

How to Use the Calculator

  1. Enter the purchase price and select the currency of the vehicle.
  2. Fill in details like engine capacity, vehicle type, CO2 emissions, and age.
  3. Provide estimated shipping and insurance costs.
  4. Click the "Calculate Import Cost" button.
  5. Review the total cost, breakdown, and suggestions for your situation.
  6. Optionally, view detailed charts and explanations to better understand the charges.

Common Questions

What is OMV?

OMV (Open Market Value) represents the assessed value of the car, including the purchase price, freight, and insurance. It forms the base for most taxes applied during import.

Why is COE so expensive?

The Certificate of Entitlement (COE) grants the right to own a vehicle in Singapore for 10 years. Its price is set through a competitive bidding system and reflects demand.

What is the VES Adjustment?

The Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES) provides rebates or adds surcharges based on how environmentally friendly a car is. Vehicles with lower CO2 emissions may qualify for rebates.

Can I use this calculator for motorcycles and commercial vehicles?

Yes, the calculator supports different vehicle categories, including motorcycles and commercial vehicles, with appropriate calculations for each.

Does this calculator give exact prices?

The calculator provides an estimate based on current regulations and average values. Final costs may differ based on exchange rates, inspection outcomes, and government policy changes.

How This Tool Helps

Whether you're comparing the value of local versus imported vehicles or budgeting for all related costs, this tool can guide your planning. It takes key considerations—such as emission levels, vehicle age, and COE categories—into account to deliver a realistic financial outlook.

This calculator is especially useful for car buyers, import agents, and anyone interested in vehicle logistics. By using accurate financial assumptions and publicly available data, it acts as a valuable planning companion.