Everything you need to know about importing a car from Japan: the process, the money, the paperwork. Still unsure? Message us. We're happy to help.
How do I get started?
Send us an email, WhatsApp, or Instagram message and we take it from there. The journey: Inquiry → Deposit → Vehicle Search → In-Person Inspection → Competitive Bidding → Shipping to your port.
How much does it cost?
Three simple parts: the auction invoice (what the car actually costs), our service fee (¥150,000 fixed, plus 2–5% on any value above ¥2,000,000, negotiable), and shipping. To start the search, you pay a deposit: usually 30% of your budget, minimum ¥150,000. You'll see every cost broken down before you commit.
How long does the whole process take?
Finding the right car can take days or weeks depending on how rare your spec is. Good cars come up at auction every week, and we'd rather wait for the right one than rush the wrong one. After purchase, add export paperwork (~2–3 weeks) and the sea voyage (see shipping times below).
Where do the cars come from?
Mainly Japan's dealer auctions: 120,000+ cars every week that only licensed dealers like us can access. Beyond that, dealerships and private sellers across Japan. If it exists in Japan, we can find it.
What does the in-person inspection include?
On auction day our team physically inspects the car:
~70 high-quality photos,
2–4 detailed videos (walkaround, engine start, undercarriage), and
live updates while you decide, plus a candid condition report. If a car isn't worth your money, we tell you straight.
See how the inspection works →How do Japanese auction grades work?
Every auction car comes with a graded inspection sheet. Roughly: 5 / 4.5: excellent, 4: good honest car with normal wear, 3.5: visible wear or older repairs, R / RA: accident-repair history. Interiors are graded A–C separately. We translate the sheet, decode the inspector's notes, and confirm everything with our own eyes before you bid.
What happens if we don't win the auction?
We don't overpay to win. If bidding passes your ceiling, we let it go. Your deposit stays with your search and we move to the next matching lot. The right car always comes around again.
Do the cars come with a warranty?
Auction cars are used vehicles sold as-is, with no manufacturer or dealer warranty. That's exactly why our in-person inspection exists: ~70 photos, detailed videos, and a candid condition report, so you know precisely what you're buying before you bid. What we report is what you get.
How long does shipping take?
By destination: West Coast USA ~3–5 weeks, East Coast USA ~6–8 weeks, Europe ~5–12 weeks, Australia/NZ ~3–5 weeks. Vessel schedules and customs processing can add time.
RoRo or container: which should I choose?
RoRo (roll-on, roll-off) is the economical choice with frequent sailings; the car is driven aboard and secured. Container offers maximum protection, can be shared to cut costs, and lets us pack parts with the car. We offer both, with EXW, FOB, or CIF invoicing terms, and we'll recommend the right option for your car and route.
Is my car insured during shipping?
Shipments can be fully insured for the sea voyage. Ask us about marine insurance options when we prepare your quote, and we'll include the coverage that fits your car's value.
Can you ship parts with my car?
Yes: genuine OEM and tuning parts, sourced through the same network. With container shipping we consolidate and pack parts alongside the vehicle: one container, everything sorted and accounted for.
What payment methods do you accept?
International bank transfer (TT) or Wise. The deposit comes before inspection and bidding; the balance is due after purchase and before shipping. Every payment matches a written invoice.
Are there hidden fees, and who pays import taxes?
No hidden fees: auction invoice, service fee, shipping. That's all, broken down in writing. Import duties and taxes in your country (like GST, VAT, or customs duty) are charged by your government at arrival and paid by you. We tell you upfront what to expect for your destination so there are no surprises at the port.
What documents do I receive with the car?
All necessary export documents: Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, Invoices, Auction Sheet, and a Translation where your country requires it. Country-specific extras (such as Apostille certification) are available, quoted separately.
Can I store my vehicle in Japan after purchase?
Yes. Short-term and long-term paid storage at our secure facilities until you're ready to ship. Useful if you're waiting for the 25-year mark, a shared container, or the right season. Contact us for pricing.
