The total time to import a car from Japan can vary depending on factors like finding the right car and dealing with customs, but typically falls within a range of 6 to 8 weeks. This timeframe includes searching for and buying the vehicle, ocean transport, customs clearance, and final registration.
There is some waiting involved when you import a car from Japan
Importing a car from Japan is an exhilarating endeavor, but it comes with its fair share of waiting periods that cannot be overlooked. While the anticipation adds a thrill to the process, those seeking immediate gratification may find it prudent to explore vehicles already available in the market.
The waiting process encompasses various stages, each demanding patience and meticulous attention:
- Anticipating the availability of a suitable car for sale that meets your criteria and preferences.
- Waiting for the opportune moment when a desired vehicle is listed at a price within your budget constraints.
- Navigating the financial transactions involved, including money transfers and payment processing.
- Tackling the administrative hurdles of paperwork required for importation procedures.
- Coordinating the logistics of shipping, including scheduling and transportation arrangements.
- Allowing time for the DVLA to allocate a registration number, a crucial step for legal ownership and operation.
While the waiting period may test one’s resolve, it is an integral part of the importation journey. By understanding and preparing for these delays, importers can navigate the process more effectively, ensuring a smooth and successful acquisition of their desired vehicles from the Japanese market.
Waiting for a suitable car to come up for sale and at your target price
The length of the waiting period when importing a car from Japan is highly variable and influenced by several key factors:
1. The type of car you desire and its availability in the used car market. If there are limited examples of your preferred model for sale per week, the wait for a suitable one may be prolonged compared to models with higher availability.
2. Your specific preferences regarding specifications, color, and condition. A meticulous search for a car with particular attributes, such as a pristine bosozoku style bodykit, may extend the waiting time.
3. Your budget constraints and how tightly you adhere to them. Being at the lower end of the price range for your desired car may necessitate a longer search to find a suitable option within your budget.
4. Serendipitous factors such as luck and competition at auctions can also influence the waiting period unpredictably.
While estimating the exact duration of this wait is challenging, a timeframe of 1 to 6 weeks is generally reasonable. For a more tailored estimate, feel free to reach out via email, where we can provide personalized assistance based on your specific requirements and preferences. Additionally, thorough research and understanding of these variables can help manage expectations and streamline the importation process effectively.
Money transfers
When importing a car from Japan, transactions pose only a minor hurdle, typically resolved within a couple of days. These processes, including financial transactions and paperwork, are streamlined to ensure minimal delay. With efficient handling, importers can proceed swiftly with their plans, minimizing disruptions to the import process.
Paperwork
Upon winning the auction, the next step in importing a car from Japan involves waiting for paperwork processing, typically completed within 10 days. This essential paperwork facilitates the car’s departure from the country and is crucial for legal compliance. Despite the wait, the efficient processing of documentation ensures minimal delay in the overall importation process.Top of Form
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Shipping
Roll on roll off (RORO) boats depart from 4 major ports in Japan, offering between 3 to 6 sailings per month, contingent upon port and seasonal variations. Typically, the wait for a boat shouldn’t exceed a week, although unforeseen circumstances may lead to booking constraints. Once embarked, these vessels cover distances ranging from 11,000 to 13,000 nautical miles, with an average sailing time of approximately 6 weeks. Despite the vast distances traversed, the shipping process remains a vital component of car importation, ensuring the timely arrival of vehicles at their intended destinations.
Collection, preparation and testing
Upon arrival at the port, your car undergoes collection, preparation, and testing, which includes MOT or IVA examinations. For vehicles requiring only an MOT test, this process can be completed within a couple of days. However, if an IVA test is necessary, both the preparation and the test itself will extend the timeline accordingly. These meticulous procedures ensure that imported cars meet regulatory standards and are road-ready for their new owners.
Registration
The DVLA recommends allocating 10 days for the registration mark assignment of imported vehicles, although they often expedite the process. In my experience, the DVLA has consistently demonstrated efficiency beyond this timeframe, ensuring prompt registration for imported vehicles. This streamlined approach minimizes delays and facilitates the seamless integration of imported cars into the local automotive landscape.
Can you drive a Japanese car in America?
Thankfully, there’s a notable exemption to this regulation: any vehicle that is 25 years old or older can be imported into the United States, irrespective of its manufacturing location. Additionally, certain automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz offer left-hand drive models in Japan that closely mirror their counterparts in the domestic market, ensuring compliance with emissions and safety standards. It’s essential to be aware of these exceptions and considerations when considering importing vehicles into the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules for importing cars from Japan?
For a smooth import process, gather vital documents including the bill of sale, proof of ownership, foreign deregistration certificate, and bill of lading. Also, ensure mandatory submission of the EPA Form 3520-1 and DOT HS-7 form for successful importation. Accuracy in completing and submitting paperwork is essential for a seamless process.
How safe is it to import a car from Japan?
With an experienced shipper, cars can be bought in one country and shipped to another seamlessly, ensuring adherence to the destination’s regulations, a common practice for cars imported from Japan. Full compliance with regulations is essential for a smooth importation process.
How are new cars shipped from Japan?
New cars from Japan are typically shipped via cargo vessels, either in containerized form or aboard roll-on/roll-off (RORO) ships, to various destinations around the world.
Why do people buy Japanese import cars?
People often choose to buy Japanese import cars due to their reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and often lower price compared to domestic models.
Are new cars cheap in Japan?
New cars in Japan can vary in price depending on factors such as model, brand, and specifications. While some cars may be competitively priced, others may be more expensive due to taxes and other fees.
What are Japanese import cars called?
Japanese import cars are commonly referred to as “grey imports” or “JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) imports” in countries where they are imported from Japan.
Are Japanese cars cheap to maintain?
Japanese cars are generally known for their low maintenance costs due to their reliability and durability. However, maintenance costs can vary depending on the specific model, age of the vehicle, and availability of parts in different regions.
Conclusion
Importing cars from Japan requires careful attention to documentation and compliance with regulations. By working with experienced shippers and ensuring adherence to all necessary procedures, the importation process can proceed smoothly.
