Quick answer
Factory value is the manufacturer's reference price; customs may adjust declared values using accepted databases and comparisons.
Explanation
Factory value refers to a manufacturer's original list price for a given model and specification, sometimes used by customs as a reference point when checking whether a declared CIF value looks understated.
When customs revalues your vehicle
If ZIMRA believes your declared value is too low compared to reference pricing — common with auction purchases bought below typical retail — they may substitute their own VDP assessment, which usually increases your duty.
If you disagree with a valuation
- Keep your original, unaltered invoice as proof of purchase price.
- Keep the auction sheet showing condition and any damage that justifies a lower price.
- Ask your clearing agent about the formal objection process before paying under protest.
Never ask a seller to under-declare an invoice to lower your VDP artificially — ZIMRA can reject the declared value and reassess using its own database, which typically costs far more than any short-term saving.
Frequently asked questions
Can ZIMRA override my actual purchase invoice?
Yes — if customs believes a declared value is understated, they can substitute their own assessed value for duty purposes, which is why keeping accurate, verifiable documentation matters.
What's the risk of under-declaring a vehicle's invoice value?
Under-declaring can lead to a much higher reassessed value, penalties, and delays — the potential fines usually far outweigh any duty saved by the misdeclaration.