Landed cost is the total price you pay to get a vehicle from its source to your driveway, including purchase price, shipping, insurance, duties, taxes, and clearance fees. In Zimbabwe, it is significantly higher than the purchase price alone.
What Makes Up Landed Cost?
- CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) — the vehicle price plus shipping and insurance
- Customs duty — 60–80% depending on engine size (SI 54/2024 and SI 59/2026)
- Excise (surtax) — 20–40% depending on engine size
- VAT — 14.5% on the duty-inclusive value
- Interim levy — fixed fee of ~USD 250
- Clearing agent fees — USD 200–400
- Transport from port to your location in Zimbabwe
Worked Example: Toyota Corolla 1800cc
Assume CIF value of USD 10,000 for a 2016 Toyota Corolla (>1500cc petrol):
| Cost Component | Calculation | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| CIF value | Vehicle + shipping + insurance | $10,000 |
| Customs duty (80%) | 80% × $10,000 | $8,000 |
| Excise surtax (40%) | 40% × $10,000 | $4,000 |
| VAT (14.5%) | 14.5% × ($10,000 + $8,000 + $4,000) | $3,190 |
| Interim levy | Fixed | $250 |
| Clearing agent | Estimated | $300 |
| Total landed cost | $25,740 |
Note: A vehicle under 1500cc would attract 60% duty and 20% excise, resulting in a significantly lower total landed cost. Engine size makes a dramatic difference in Zimbabwe.
How to Reduce Your Landed Cost
- Choose a vehicle with engine ≤ 1500cc (60% duty instead of 80%)
- Ensure the vehicle is 10 years old or newer (SI 54/2024 age limit)
- Consider full EVs — only 25% duty + 0% excise
- Returning residents may qualify for duty suspension
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