The Process

Step 1: Find your vehicle

Search for yourself, or have us search for you. Click here to see what ages of vehicles you can bring in to your country.

Auction search

Auctions can be a way of sourcing hard to find vehicles. The reason we sometimes avoid the auction is the uncertainty in winning the auction, and the uncertainty of the quality of the vehicle. Click here to contact us about searching the Japanese auction markets.

FSBO Search

For sale by owner (FSBO) websites do exist in Japan, but the vehicles aren't always at the standard of what you will find at the dealerships. Click here to contact us about searching the Japanese FSBO markets.

Dealership search

Dealerships in Japan often end up with the best vehicles, and unlike the auction, you get to buy without the uncertainty of bidding on a car. Click here to start your search.

Step 2: Ship your vehicle

Provide a general summary of the services you provide, highlighting key features and benefits for potential clients.

Transport paperwork

Our team in Japan will submit and gather all necessary paperwork on your behalf. We will also send you the required documents for you to receive your vehicle. Because the vehicle is sent in your name, you can avoid transfer fees and excess taxes that are required using other methods.

Shipping

Shipping typically takes about 3 to 8 weeks, depending on several factors such as the shipping route, port congestion, and customs clearance.

Pay up front

This is where you save money! By paying first you can save on storage costs and potentially even tax costs in your country.

Step 3: Receive your vehicle

Each country will have different requirements for import vehicles. Some modifications may be required to pass inspection - click here for more information.

Modifications

Modifications required to meet local vehicle safety regulations will depend on the country and state or province you will be registering the vehicle in. Click here for a guide on modifications.

Inspection

Your vehicle may require federal, provincial, and state safety inspections before you will be able to register your vehicle. Click here for a guide on inspections.

Customs clearance

Once the vehicle arrives at the port, it typically takes an additional 1 to 2 weeks for unloading, customs inspection, and clearance.