Approval must be obtained before ordering, purchasing or arranging the shipment of any motor vehicle to Bermuda, the Transport Control Department reminded residents.

The TCD urged prospective importers — individuals and businesses — to submit the vehicle’s specifications for assessment before making any financial commitments, as not all vehicles are eligible for importation and registration.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, said: “It is important that anyone considering importing a vehicle into Bermuda understands the requirements before making a purchase or arranging shipment.

“We want to ensure that prospective importers have the necessary information and seek approval from TCD before committing significant sums of money.

“Taking this precaution can help prevent unnecessary financial loss and avoid the disappointment of purchasing a vehicle that cannot be approved for use on our roads.”

Under the Motor Car Act 1951 and its associated regulations, vehicles must satisfy the applicable legislative requirements, including those relating to vehicle classification, dimensions, specifications and other statutory criteria.

These requirements determine whether a vehicle may be imported and registered for use on the island’s roads.

TCD further cautioned that purchasing, ordering or shipping a vehicle before receiving approval is undertaken entirely at the importer’s own risk.

Payment for a vehicle, the arrangement of shipping or the vehicle’s arrival in Bermuda does not guarantee that permission will be granted for its importation or registration.

Individuals and businesses considering importing a vehicle can apply by filling in an importation and replacement application form on the Government of Bermuda website.