For dealers and fleet buyers sourcing pickups or 4x4 SUVs from China, Kazakhstan remains a key market in Central Asia. The Khorgos Gateway, on the China–Kazakhstan border, is the main land port for vehicle imports into Kazakhstan and the wider Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). This guide outlines the practical steps for importing new China pickups and used LHD 4x4 SUVs through Khorgos, with a focus on EAEU customs procedures and EAC certification. RuggedRides Export supplies new pickups and 4x4 off-road SUVs from GWM, JAC, Foton, Dongfeng, JMC, Maxus, ZX Auto, Changan and others, and holds a physical used LHD 4x4 stock including Tank 300, Prado (2016–2019), BJ40, Land Cruiser, Patrol, Wrangler and Gladiator. All vehicles are left-hand drive; we do not supply RHD.

Why Khorgos for Kazakhstan-Bound Vehicles

Khorgos is a dry port and free economic zone that handles a large share of China's vehicle exports to Kazakhstan. It offers integrated customs and logistics facilities, reducing clearance time for compliant shipments. For importers, the main advantages are shorter transit times compared to sea routes and lower inland freight costs. The EAEU customs code, harmonized across member states, applies a common external tariff and technical regulations. In 2026, Kazakhstan continues to enforce EAEU-wide rules, including mandatory EAC certification for vehicles.

EAEU Customs Duties and Taxes

Under the EAEU common external tariff, Kazakhstan applies import duty, value-added tax (VAT) and, for certain vehicles, an excise tax based on engine size. For used vehicles, duty is calculated on the customs value, which includes the purchase price plus freight and insurance. The exact duty rate, VAT rate and any excise applicable to your shipment are confirmed by the export desk per order, as they depend on vehicle type, engine size and current EAEU regulations. The EAEU also continues to phase in stricter environmental standards, which may affect older diesel models.

To estimate your landed cost, use our landed cost calculator or contact the export desk for a personalized quote.

EAC Certification and Technical Regulations

All vehicles imported into Kazakhstan must have an EAC (Eurasian Conformity) certificate or declaration, proving compliance with EAEU technical regulations. For passenger cars, the relevant regulation is TR CU 018/2011, covering safety requirements. In 2026, the EAEU is updating this regulation to align with UNECE standards, which may affect new-energy vehicles. Obtaining EAC certification typically takes a few weeks and involves a cost per vehicle type; the export desk can arrange certification through accredited bodies in China or Kazakhstan and will confirm timelines and costs per order.

Required Documents

For each shipment, the following documents are required:

  • Commercial invoice and packing list
  • Bill of lading or railway consignment note
  • Certificate of origin (Form CT-1) to benefit from reduced duties under the EAEU's free trade agreement with China, if applicable
  • Insurance certificate (green card)
  • Power of attorney for customs broker
  • Customs transit declaration (TIR or CMR)

RuggedRides Export provides export invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin. Additional documents may be required by your customs broker in Kazakhstan.

Step-by-Step Import Process via Khorgos

  1. Vehicle selection and purchase: Browse our pickups and 4x4 SUVs. For used units, we provide stock numbers and real photos. Third-party inspection before deposit is available.
  2. Payment and contract: Sign a sales contract and arrange payment. We accept T/T bank transfer; for larger orders, a letter of credit can be arranged. Details are confirmed by the export desk.
  3. Export documentation: We prepare the export invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin.
  4. Transport to Khorgos: Vehicles are trucked or railed to Khorgos. Transit times vary by origin and mode; the export desk confirms per order.
  5. Customs clearance in Kazakhstan: Your customs broker submits the EAC certificate, transit declaration and other documents. Clearance time depends on completeness of documentation.
  6. Payment of duties and taxes: You pay import duty, VAT and any excise via bank transfer to the Kazakh customs account.
  7. Delivery to your location: After clearance, vehicles are transported to Almaty, Astana or other cities.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many importers face delays due to incomplete documentation or incorrect HS codes. In 2026, the EAEU has tightened controls on used vehicles, especially those with modified engines. To avoid problems:

  • Ensure the vehicle's VIN and engine number match the export documents.
  • Verify that the EAC certificate covers the exact make and model.
  • Use a licensed customs broker in Kazakhstan.
  • Declare the actual purchase price to avoid penalties.
  • Check if the vehicle is eligible for reduced duty under the EAEU's free trade agreement with China.

Used LHD 4x4 Stock

RuggedRides Export holds a physical used LHD 4x4 stock including Tank 300, Prado (2016–2019), BJ40, Land Cruiser, Patrol, Wrangler and Gladiator. Each unit has a stock number and real photos. Used units are price on request. Browse our used 4x4 stock or view specific models: Tank 300, BJ40, Patrol, Land Cruiser 300 / Prado 250, Land Cruiser 70, and used Prado.

New Pickups and 4x4 SUVs

We export new China pickups and 4x4 off-road SUVs from GWM, JAC, Foton, Dongfeng, JMC, Maxus, ZX Auto, Changan and others. New models have FOB ranges; contact the export desk for current pricing. All vehicles are LHD; we do not supply RHD.

Shipping and Logistics

We ship to 30 markets in Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and Latin America. For Kazakhstan, Khorgos is the primary land port. Transit times, freight costs and insurance are confirmed by the export desk per order. For CIF shipments, marine insurance is arranged with the standard CIF uplift. See our destinations page for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duty rate for pickups in Kazakhstan?

Duty rates vary by vehicle type and engine size. The export desk confirms the applicable rate per order based on current EAEU tariff.

Can you arrange EAC certification?

Yes, we can arrange EAC certification through accredited bodies. Timelines and costs are confirmed per order.

Do you supply RHD vehicles?

No, we only supply LHD vehicles.

How can I verify the condition of a used vehicle?

We provide stock numbers and real photos. Third-party inspection before deposit is available.

For personalized guidance on importing to Kazakhstan via Khorgos, contact our export desk. For general import information, see our import guide and answers pages.