Fancy getting your hands on a pristine Toyota Supra or a mint-condition Nissan Skyline? Importing a car from Japan might be your ticket to securing that dream ride.  As Japanese imports continue to grow in popularity across Australia, New Zealand and beyond, more petrolheads and everyday drivers are exploring this option. But how much does importing a car from Japan cost, and what's involved in the process? This blog post breaks it down so you have all the information you need to make a decision.

Why Choose Japanese Imports?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's address why Japanese imports are so popular in the rest of the world. Cars from Japan are renowned for their:

• Exceptional condition because of Japan's strict vehicle maintenance regulations
• Lower mileage compared to local options
• Unique specifications and models often not released elsewhere
• Generally better value for money

To summarise, many people decide to import second hand cars from Japan because these vehicles are known for their superior quality and reliability. Additionally, many Japanese cars offer features and models not available in other markets.

The Import Process Explained

Importing second-hand cars from Japan involves several key steps:

Step 1: Finding Your Vehicle

The journey begins with selecting your vehicle through a Japanese auction house or dealer. You'll need a reliable agent who can:

• Access Japanese car auctions
• Provide detailed inspection reports
• Verify the vehicle's condition
• Handle bidding on your behalf

Step 2: Understanding the Costs

When calculating how much importing a car from Japan costs, consider these components: Let's break down typical costs for a vehicle that costs roughly ¥1,000,000 (approximately AUD/NZD 10,000) landed in Australia:

• Purchase price: $3,636.50 AUD
• Shipping: $3,000 AUD (varies by port and vessel type)
• Customs/Import duties: $363.50 AUD (10% of the customs value)
• Compliance and registration: $3,000 AUD (Varies on make, model, and condition of vehicle)

Pro tip: Always budget an extra 10-15% for unexpected costs or currency fluctuations. The example above is at current rates as of February 2025, and these figures vary from month to month. 

Step 3: Compliance Requirements

Each country has specific rules for importing Japanese vehicles. Here's what you need to know for Australia:

• Vehicles must be 25+ years old or listed on the ROVER register
• Strict asbestos testing requirements for cars over 25 years old
• State-specific modification rules
• Right-hand drive vehicles only for cars under 25 years old

It is strongly recommended to speak with a knowledgeable exporter to confirm that the model you want to import is eligible.  

How Much Does Importing a Car From Japan Cost?

The most common question buyers have when deciding whether to import second hand cars from Japan is around cost. Understanding the total costs involved in importing a car from Japan is vital. It helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises. So, how much does importing a car from Japan cost? Start by considering the purchase price of the car you want. We can help you find the market rate for the car you’re looking for in Japan..  Next, add shipping fees. These can vary based on the method and distance covered; even the destination port in a country impacts price. Import duties are also a significant component. They vary by country and car type, so it really depends on your circumstances.  Another consideration is documentation fees. Securing export and import documents comes at a cost. And of course, currency exchange rates can also play a role. Fluctuations can increase or decrease your total expenses. Below is a list of potential costs involved:

• Vehicle purchase price in Japan
• Shipping and logistics fees
• Import duties and taxes
• Documentation and registration fees
• Currency exchange adjustments

Tips for Success

Choosing the ideal car from Japan involves careful research.

1. Research Thoroughly Don't rush into your first Japanese import purchase. Spend time understanding the market and specific model variations. Pinpoint your needs: model, year, and features. These factors dictate your starting point.
2. Choose the Right Agent Finding a trustworthy seller is crucial. Look for reputable exporters with strong relationships with leading auction houses. Check reviews and verify credentials to ensure reliability. Work with reputable import agents who have:
   • Proven track records
   • Clear communication channels
   • Honest representation of the vehicle
   • Transparent pricing
3. Confirm the Vehicle’s Condition Consider the car's condition thoroughly. Request auction sheet translations, detailed reports and photos. This helps confirm the vehicle's true state before committing to purchase. You can learn more about how to judge the vehicle’s condition from afar by reading our Japanese car auction sheet guide.
4. Ensure All Export and Import Requirements are Fulfilled: There are various documents, inspections, and procedures that must be done to successfully export a vehicle from Japan to Australia. Your export and import partnerts on each side of the transaction should be able to handle all of these for you. Be sure to work wtih trusted parties that have experience in sending cars to Australia to be sure that all procedures are correctly done before export. Some required procedures include the following:
   • Vehicle deregistration
   • Export customs clearance
   • Import customs clearance
   • Vehicle inspections (varies depending on model, age, and other factors)
   • Compliance paperwork
5. Understanding Shipping: Be sure to choose the right shipping options for your purchase. For example, most cars will be sent on a RORO ship, rather than a container which is much more costly. Additionally it is important to understand how to receive your vehicle on the import side, and work with a partner that can help you arrange transport from the port to your compliance partner. Considerations for shipping include:

• • • Roll-on/Roll-off vs Container shipping
    • Port-to-port vs Door-to-door delivery
    • Insurance coverage
    • Seasonal price variations

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Skipping mechanical inspections
• Underestimating compliance costs
• Choosing the cheapest agent available
• Ignoring import restrictions
• Failing to factor in compliance costs

Final Thoughts

Importing a car from Japan can be a rewarding experience when done right. While the process might seem daunting, breaking it down into manageable steps makes it more accessible. The key is thorough research, careful budgeting, and working with reliable partners. Remember that while Japanese imports can offer excellent value, they require patience and attention to detail. Take your time, do your homework, and you'll be well on your way to securing your dream vehicle. Want to learn more? Check our blog for posts on specific models and import guides for your country.