Import a Car to Brazil with Crypto | Bitmalo

Importing a car into Brazil has long been known as one of the most challenging automotive transactions globally. The combination of strict customs regulations, multi-layered taxation, and restrictions on pre-owned vehicles often leaves buyers feeling overwhelmed. Yet demand continues to rise—Brazil’s passion for cars is unparalleled, and enthusiasts are willing to put in the extra effort for the perfect vehicle. At Bitmalo, we’ve developed a process engineered to remove that stress: you select the car, pay securely using crypto or bank transfer, and we manage everything else, from inspection and acquisition to customs clearance and doorstep delivery anywhere in the country.

How the Import Process Works

For most clients, the process begins online. Once you’ve located your desired vehicle in our Cars inventory, the initial step involves a tailored inspection. This isn't merely a brief look; we conduct a thorough VIN and variant check, verify emissions standards, and confirm the vehicle complies with Brazil’s regulatory mandates. Our Brazil-ready condition report is formulated to foresee what customs authorities and regulators will require subsequently, ensuring fewer unexpected issues once the vehicle reaches its destination.

Following the inspection, the procurement phase commences. Unlike many conventional importers, we operate on a full upfront settlement model—the buyer remits 100% in advance via USDT, BTC, ETH, or through a USD bank transfer. This provides you with a locked-in transaction, complete with full documentation (invoices and TXIDs), and enables us to serve as the buyer of record, thereby securing the title and overseeing the export process.

Subsequently, the car embarks on its journey to Brazil. Most consignments reach through Santos or Paranaguá when transported by sea, whereas São Paulo–Guarulhos (GRU) and Rio de Janeiro–Galeão (GIG) serve as the primary entry points for air freight. Upon the vehicle’s arrival, our licensed despachante aduaneiro manages the complete Receita Federal clearance. By the time the car is released from port or airport custody, you will have already been informed of its estimated doorstep arrival.

Understanding Brazil’s Import Duties

The cost of importing isn’t solely freight and handling—it primarily constitutes taxes and tariffs. Brazil implements multiple tiers of taxation that differ based on engine displacement, vehicle type, and the state of final registration. The most frequent charges comprise:

• Import Duty (II) – typically 35% for passenger cars.
• IPI (Excise Tax) – rates rise with engine size and type.
• PIS/COFINS-Import – social contributions levied on imports.
• ICMS (State VAT) – varies significantly depending on which state your car is registered in.

In addition to these, there are local port and terminal charges which encompass devanning, storage, and handling. A key advantage of Bitmalo is our commitment to transparency: we furnish an estimate that accurately mirrors the prevailing tariff schedule for your vehicle’s NCM classification, thereby offering you a realistic perspective of the total landed cost even before the car is dispatched.

Eligibility and Regulatory Essentials

A crucial aspect that many first-time importers overlook is that Brazil generally prohibits the import of pre-owned cars. The two significant exceptions are brand-new (0 km) vehicles and collector cars that are typically 30 years old or older. We verify eligibility on a per-VIN basis to prevent expensive errors.

Brazil also mandates left-hand drive (LHD) only for standard road registration. Right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are ineligible for road usage. Beyond these fundamental aspects, we ensure every file adheres to Senatran/Contran standards. In instances where emissions or safety certifications are requisite, our team organises IBAMA or INMETRO documentation and ensures precise Portuguese translations are incorporated. Customs entries are lodged via Siscomex/Portal Único, with DUIMP or import licenses (LI) submitted as and when necessary.

Shipping Options: Air vs Sea

Clients frequently inquire which mode of transport is preferable—air or sea. The reality is, it hinges on your priorities. Air freight into GRU or GIG provides expediency, with vehicles reaching their destination in as little as 5–10 days door-to-door. This choice is favoured for high-value vehicles or scenarios where promptness is paramount. Conversely, ocean freight—whether containerized or Ro-Ro—is significantly more economical, although timelines can extend to 4–9 weeks door-to-door contingent on routing and terminal congestion. Irrespective of the mode, we offer door-to-door all-risk insurance and manage every stage, including hazardous goods documentation for EVs and hybrids.

Why Buyers Choose Bitmalo for Brazil

The Brazilian import system highly values precision. A missing certificate or an inaccurately translated document can impede clearance for weeks and incur substantial storage expenses. By overseeing everything from inspection and procurement to customs and inland delivery, Bitmalo offers you a singular, accountable counterparty. Clients also appreciate our capacity to settle arrival charges through our broker and re-invoice with transparency using crypto or bank transfer, eliminating the necessity to pursue port invoices. Furthermore, our Brazil-ready registration pack, which comprises DETRAN/RENAVAM guidance and CRLV-e samples, provides a comprehensive solution that not only transports vehicles but also ensures they are legally roadworthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I import a used car to Brazil?
Not under normal circumstances. Only brand-new cars or collector cars (typically 30 years old or older) are eligible. We confirm each VIN before proceeding.

How long does shipping take?
Air freight usually arrives within 5–10 days door-to-door. Sea freight typically takes 4–9 weeks depending on origin and terminal conditions.

What taxes should I expect?
At minimum: Import Duty (II), IPI, PIS/COFINS-Import, ICMS, and port/terminal charges. We incorporate these into your initial quote.

Do you deliver outside São Paulo and Rio?
Yes. We arrange covered transport to Brasília, Salvador, Porto Alegre, Curitiba, Fortaleza, Recife, Belo Horizonte, and beyond.

Final Word

Brazil’s car import landscape is not engineered for simplicity—however, with the appropriate execution partner, it can be a seamless and foreseeable process. Bitmalo excels in bridging this complexity. Whether you’re acquiring a brand-new exotic or a classic qualifying for collector status, we offer crypto-settled, comprehensively managed imports that reach your doorstep devoid of any hassle.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information, not tax or legal advice. Import regulations vary by vehicle, model year, and destination state. Bitmalo confirms the import process and associated costs for your VIN prior to purchase.