How to import a JDM car
Our import process is made as simple as possible for our clients. Our mission is to make importing a JDM car as simplistic as ordering anything else online. No need for you to do the searching, we will curate a daily list of cars which fit exactly what you’re looking for.
These are the four steps from start to finish.
Step One
Get the process started by reaching out to us through one of the methods listed on our contact page. Provide us with the details of your needs and we’ll provide you with an estimated cost and answer any inquiries you may have. If the estimated cost fits your budget, you will then be required to sign our import agreement and make a refundable ¥70,000 deposit to demonstrate your commitment. This crucial step will allow us to proceed with your project.
Step Two
We will start the search for your desired vehicle, which may take an indefinite period, however, typically takes within a month or less. Our team will provide you with comprehensive auction sheets, including photos, videos, and detailed information of various cars available, and we’ll be here to offer our expert guidance throughout the entire process.
Step Three
Upon selecting a car of your choice, we will place a bid on your behalf. Upon winning the bid, full payment for the car, inclusive of all fees, must be made within 4 days. The car will then be transferred to our facility in Japan for thorough inspection, cleaning, and preparation for shipment to it’s destination country. The shipment process typically takes 5-9 weeks.
Step Four
Upon arrival in destination country, the car typically takes 4-5 days to clear customs. Our customs agents will thoroughly review and process the clearance, including translating and completing the necessary paperwork. Additionally, we can arrange for the pickup or logistics of the vehicle to be delivered to your desired final destination.
It is crucial to remember that the final step involves passing your country’s pre owned vehicle inspection requirements to legally operate the vehicle on the road. Most cars imported from Japan will require modifications to meet the inspection requirements. To ensure a seamless process, it is recommended to research and understand any necessary changes or additions to the car beforehand.
JDM imports frequently asked questions. FAQ.
You probably still have many questions but Don't worry, it takes time to get the hang of this. Feel free to contact us with any questions you have, and in the meantime, have a look at these commonly asked questions.
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The simple answer is yes. Several cars that go through auction will have unknown mileage though. This will always be mentioned on the auction sheet. Check on the auction sheet beside the mileage for these marks – *, #, $. Our translation will always clearly state it as well.
The seller writes half of the sheet and the auction inspector writes the other half. The seller writes the car info, sales points, and notes. The inspector writes the condition report and diagram notes. The inspector also checks the info written by the seller to make sure it’s correct.
yes you can, The auction is a third party. That means they are not affiliated with the seller. In fact, the auction gets paid whether the car sells or not. There are over 100 auctions across Japan. They are in competition with one another. If the inspections were not trust worthy at that auction, buyers would stop buying from them.
It happens from time to time when the inspector misses something on the auction report. If this happens, we can claim to the auction. Providing the auction allows for the claim, we can either be awarded a monetary refund, or the option to return the vehicle. Note that cars over 10 years old usually don’t qualify for claims on the condition of the vehicle, or the vehicle’s mechanical condition.
We will translate the sheets for you. This includes the sales points, notes, report, and the Japanese on the diagram notes. Note that Jurojin imports does full translations of the auction sheets. Most exporters only partially translate the sheets and some don’t at all.
Different auctions have slight differences in there sheets, but for the most part, this is not necessary to pay attention to in order to buy a car. The same basic formula is shared between all the major auctions.
You can buy any grade car that you like. Some people want pristine cars, some want project cars, and there are customers everywhere in between. What I have seen however is that most people buying lower grade cars end up not being completely satisfied. Unless you are an expert in building cars, it’s easy to fall into the trap of not realizing how much is involved in bringing life back into a car.
Be careful looking at the pictures of the car. The true vehicle condition is not accurately shown in the pictures. Get in the habit of reviewing the auction sheet body diagram in detail instead of looking at the pictures to gauge the quality of the vehicle. Auction sheets always describe even the smallest flaws and issues in detail, so its best to cross examine using both.