Customs cautions vehicle buyers to verify import duties before purchasing used cars

By Prince Antwi July 20, 2026

The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has urged individuals seeking to buy imported used vehicles to confirm that all required import duties have been fully paid before completing any transaction.

The Division warned that failure to conduct proper checks could expose buyers to financial losses and the risk of having their vehicles seized by authorities.

Michel Adu Manu, a Senior Revenue Officer at the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB), Vehicle Valuation Unit, said prospective buyers should go beyond checking vehicle documents and ensure that the vehicles undergo physical verification by Customs officials.

He made the remarks at a media forum organised by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) on the theme: “Understanding Vehicle Valuation in Ghana: Customs Procedures, Duties and Importer Responsibilities.”

Mr Manu explained that buyers can begin the verification process by using the Vehicle Calculator on the External ICUMS/UNIPASS platform, where they can enter details such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), chassis number, make and model to confirm the vehicle’s duty status.

However, he stressed that online checks alone are not enough, as buyers must also visit a Customs office for physical inspection to ensure that the vehicle’s chassis number has not been altered.

“A lot of things do happen,” he said, noting that physical verification is necessary to establish the authenticity of a vehicle before purchase.

The Customs official also cautioned buyers against acquiring vehicles with foreign registration numbers that were brought into Ghana under temporary import arrangements but later sold without the payment of the required duties.

He explained that such vehicles are permitted entry into the country for a limited period and must either be exported after the approved duration or properly regularised through Customs.

Mr Manu warned that vehicles purchased without confirming their customs status could be impounded during enforcement exercises, leaving buyers to bear significant losses.

He therefore encouraged prospective vehicle owners to conduct thorough checks and verify all customs obligations before making payments to protect themselves and ensure compliance with Ghana’s import regulations.