Importing a car from Japan is one of the most cost-effective ways to get a high-quality used vehicle. Japan exports hundreds of thousands of cars every year to over 100 countries — and buyers who go direct to verified exporters save thousands compared to buying through local dealers.
Step 1: Choose Your Vehicle
Start by deciding on the make, model, year range, and maximum mileage. Japan's domestic car market produces vehicles in excellent condition due to strict biannual inspections (shaken). Popular imported models include Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Navara, Honda CR-V, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Subaru Forester.
Right-hand drive (RHD) vs. left-hand drive (LHD) — most Japanese domestic vehicles are RHD
Engine size and fuel type (petrol, diesel, hybrid)
Year of manufacture and first registration date
Odometer reading in km
Grade and auction sheet rating where available
Step 2: Find a Verified Japanese Exporter
The most important step is working with a legitimate, verified Japanese car exporter. Avoid brokers — they add cost and reduce transparency. Japanese Auto World lists only manually reviewed exporters with verifiable contact details and track records.
Step 3: Confirm Import Regulations for Your Country
Every country has different rules for importing used vehicles from Japan. Key factors to check:
Age restrictions — some countries allow only vehicles under 5 years old; others allow classic imports
Emissions standards — Euro 4/5/6 compliance or local equivalents
Import duty and VAT — varies widely by country and vehicle value
Homologation — headlight conversion, speedometer units, etc.
Step 4: Agree on Price and Payment
Prices are quoted FOB (Free on Board) — vehicle to Japanese port. Always clarify total landed cost including freight, insurance, and destination handling. Use bank transfer (TT) to the exporter's verified business account.
Step 5: Shipping Documents You Will Receive
Export Certificate (Yushutsu Shomeisho) — proves deregistration in Japan
Bill of Lading (B/L) — shipping document from the vessel operator
Commercial Invoice — for customs clearance
Insurance Certificate
Step 6: Customs Clearance and Registration
Once the vehicle arrives at your destination port, clear it through customs by paying import duty, presenting the Export Certificate and Bill of Lading, and passing a local roadworthy inspection before registration.
Importing directly from a verified Japanese exporter gives you access to the world's best selection of quality used vehicles at competitive prices. Browse available stock on Japanese Auto World and connect with exporters today.
