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Ready to call The Bahamas home, but not sure how to bring your things with you? Or perhaps you’re looking into a business venture and need to understand the import logistics as you get started. Import duty in The Bahamas can feel complicated and sometimes overwhelming, but with the right resources on your side, you’ll be prepared for every shipment and trip through The Bahamas airports.
At MCR Bahamas, our team of knowledgeable locals—true Bahamian natives—brings unparalleled expertise and a proven track record of over $2 billion in represented property sales. We understand the ins and outs of preparing for import duties and managing the necessary paperwork to bring your belongings into The Bahamas. And trust us, the effort is well worth it when you’re finally enjoying the stunning beaches and world-class fishing this paradise has to offer.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about import duties in The Bahamas.
Table of Contents
What is Import Duty in The Bahamas?
Import duty in The Bahamas is a tax imposed on goods brought into the country. The duty rates vary significantly depending on the type of goods being imported. High duty rates can stretch up to 220%, while some item types incur 5% or less in import duty. Higher-rate items include alcohol, luxury items, and tobacco. It’s important to be aware of the specific rates for different items to better plan your imports and manage costs.
Is The Bahamas duty-free?
One fact that some are surprised to learn about The Bahamas is that it is not duty-free. While there are duty-free shops in the airport and some duty-free items, most goods imported into The Bahamas are subject to duty charges. The rates can vary from 0% to 220%, meaning the type of item you bring into The Bahamas will have a large bearing on the duty rate.
What are The Bahamas Duty Rates?
To calculate what you’ll pay at customs in The Bahamas, you’ll need the total value of your items, including shipping and insurance. From there, you can calculate the 10% VAT, the 1% processing fee, and the duty cost based on the duty rate for the specific type of item.
In some cases, duty rates vary depending on the specific item. The best way to determine the precise duty rate for your items is to describe your import in The Bahamas tariff search tool. The tool will provide the corresponding HS Code, which will allow you to view the accurate duty rate. To get an initial sense of the duty rates, you can refer to these general categories as a baseline.
General Merchandise
Items such as clothing, school supplies, and household items each have unique duty rates in The Bahamas. For example, a curling iron carries a 35% duty rate, infant care items are duty-free, artificial Christmas trees have a 45% duty rate, and outerwear carries a 20% duty rate.
Vehicles
Duty rates for vehicles depend on their type. For example, the duty rate for a new electric vehicle is vastly different from the rate for a golf cart or an old work truck.
Factors impacting the duty rate for vehicles in The Bahamas include:
- Value
- Fuel type (gas, electric, or hybrid)
- Age
- Weight
- Condition
- Intended use
- Passenger capacity
For example, new and used gas vehicles carry a duty rate of 65%, while new electric vehicles valued at $70,000 or less only have a duty rate of 10%.
Food and Beverages
The duty rate for food and beverages depends on the specific item. Rates for common items include:
- Milk and juice: Free
- Malt beverages: 55%
- Wine: 50%
- Flour: Free
- Honey: Free
- Ice cream: 20%
- Bread: Free
Tobacco Products
Duty rates and charges for tobacco products are as follows:
- Cigars: $3.00 per stick
- Cigarettes: $0.25 per stick
- Cigarillos: 300%
- Electronic cigarettes with nicotine: 300%
- Electronic cigarettes without nicotine: 100%
Other
Every item carries its own duty rate and fee, and they can be difficult to predict. Sometimes, even very similar products have different rates, such as packed dried fruit (35%) and unpacked dried fruit (5%). The Bahamas Customs & Excise Department offers a helpful brochure with a list of commonly imported items and their rates.
Things to Know About Import Duty in The Bahamas
Whether you’re retiring in The Bahamas, going for a long visit, or looking for land for sale to make The Bahamas your new home, understanding import duty will help provide a smooth transition. Import duty can impact the overall cost of shipped and imported goods, and there are a few documents and restrictions to be aware of before bringing items into The Bahamas.
1. Shipping Documents
In order to clear customs in The Bahamas, you’ll need to present several shipping documents detailing the contents of your luggage or shipment:
- A detailed packing list describing each item in the shipment
- Proof of the transport method
- A customs declaration form
- A commercial invoice showing the value of the goods imported
If you’re shipping items rather than bringing them through the airport, you can use the online Click2Clear system for a smooth experience.
2. Restrictions
Some items are not allowed to be imported into The Bahamas under any circumstances, and others require special documentation or other conditions. Prohibited items include some plants and seeds, illegal drugs, and firearms. Animals, prescription medications, and certain electronics need special permissions and documentation.
3. Various Import Duty and Taxes
Since The Bahamas does not use a flat or standard duty rate, you may need to set aside extra time to research the specific import duty system applicable to your items. You’ll also need to consider Value Added Tax (VAT) at 10% and a 1% processing fee for all items. Some items like vehicles also incur an environmental levy or excise tax.
More on Import Duty in The Bahamas
Get a full picture on import duty in The Bahamas so that you can build a life and build a home in The Bahamas stress-free!
What is the duty rate in The Bahamas?
The duty rate in The Bahamas varies based on several factors including the type of item and its intended use. Duty rates can range all the way from 0% to 220%, but most fall between 5% and 35%.
How much is custom duty in The Bahamas for cars?
Custom duty in The Bahamas for cars depends on the type of car, its age, its value, and whether it’s a gas or electric vehicle. Some cost as low as 10%, while others cost as high as 65%. Work vehicles, golf carts, and trucks also have their own duty rates.
How much is customs allowance in The Bahamas?
If you’re traveling to spend time in The Bahamas or attend a Bahamas wedding, you may be hoping to bring items into the country duty-free. Duty-free allowance for adult travelers entering The Bahamas includes one quart of spirits and one quart of wine, as well as 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars (not to exceed one pound in weight).
Residents of The Bahamas get a $500 non-transferable exemption twice per year on dutiable items. Bringing animals to The Bahamas requires additional approvals and documentation, so it’s important to plan ahead on how to bring a dog to The Bahamas for a smooth experience.
Is The Bahamas duty-free?
No, The Bahamas is not duty-free. Travelers and residents must pay duty on imports and exports.
Understand Import Duty to Navigate Life and Business in The Bahamas
While it can feel overwhelming and confusing at times, import duty is simply a part of travel and it’s important to thoroughly understand it. With the right tools and research methods, you can effectively prepare for any personal or business needs that involve bringing goods into The Bahamas.
As always, the team at MCR is more than happy to help with any questions or concerns you have about moving to The Bahamas or investing in real estate among the beautiful islands. With more than 40 years of experience and a team of locals, we’re familiar with every logistical detail behind moving to The Bahamas, shipping to The Bahamas, and making the most of life in this stunning piece of paradise!
To begin your journey in The Bahamas, find the ideal property for your dreams. Browse our listings today!