Import a Car to India with Crypto | Bitmalo

India is one of the most tightly regulated car import markets globally. With steep customs duties, stringent homologation rules, and right-hand drive requirements, many prospective buyers often get deterred. However, the demand for high-end exotic and classic imports is consistently increasing. Bitmalo offers a dependable solution: you choose the car and make payments in crypto or via bank transfer, while we manage the inspection, purchase, export, shipping, customs clearance, and delivery right to your doorstep in India.


How Imports Work in India

Every imported car is mandated to undergo the clearance process by India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), with technical supervision from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Typically, vehicles are routed through Nhava Sheva (Mumbai/JNPT) or Chennai for sea freight, and Delhi IGI or Mumbai BOM for air freight.

India rigorously enforces RHD-only registration, and vehicles must comply with Indian emission standards (currently Bharat Stage VI, which is aligned with Euro 6). Non-compliant vehicles necessitate exemptions, available only for specific categories such as collector cars.


Taxes and Duties

Importing into India can be quite expensive due to its multi-layered tariff structure:

  • Basic Customs Duty (BCD) – often 100% of CIF value.
  • IGST (Integrated GST) – 18% applied after duty.
  • Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) – typically 10% of the duty.
  • Compensation Cess – for luxury/high-displacement vehicles, varies by engine size.

These duties position India as one of the most expensive destinations for imports. Bitmalo ensures you receive a clear and transparent breakdown before the shipment commences.


What’s Eligible?

  • New cars: Permitted, though duties are substantial.
  • Used cars: Restricted—they must be at least 3 years old and adhere to RHD and emission standards.
  • Collectors’ cars: Vehicles exceeding 50 years in age might qualify for heritage exemptions.

We ascertain eligibility based on your VIN prior to purchase to pre-empt any regulatory hurdles.


Shipping & Delivery

Sea freight remains the preferred and standard option, though air freight is an available alternative for time-sensitive deliveries. Transit periods typically range from 4–9 weeks for sea shipments and 5–10 days for air shipments. Bitmalo provides all-risk insurance and organises bonded terminal handling, customs clearance, and secure inland delivery via covered transporter to major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.


Why Choose Bitmalo for India?

  • Crypto payments (USDT/BTC/ETH) or USD bank transfer.
  • VIN-based feasibility assessments conducted prior to purchase.
  • End-to-end execution: managing customs, homologation documentation, and final delivery.
  • Transparency in handling duties and all associated arrival charges.

Final Word

India’s import market is indeed heavily protected, but with an adept execution partner, the entire process can be streamlined and predictable. Bitmalo meticulously manages the complete chain—from the initial inspection to the final delivery—allowing you to concentrate on selecting your desired car, rather than grappling with bureaucratic complexities.

Disclaimer: This content is purely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Bitmalo verifies eligibility, duties, and compliance for your specific VIN before the shipment takes place.