How to Import a Car from Japan: A Simple Guide

Importing a unique car from Japan like a Nissan Skyline GT-R or a Toyota Supra is exciting! By following a few easy steps, you can successfully bring a Japanese car to your own driveway. This guide explains the process, so you know exactly what to do.

How to Import a Car from Japan?

Learn how to import a car from Japan to the U.S. with this easy guide. Discover essential steps, including checking import regulations, selecting a reliable Japanese exporter, arranging shipping, paying import taxes, and completing customs clearance. Follow these steps to bring your dream JDM car, like a Nissan Skyline or Toyota Supra, to your driveway!

Step	Description
Check Import Regulations	Research the import rules in your country. In the U.S., cars must be at least 25 years old to bypass many

Check the Import Rules

To bring a car from Japan, you need to know the import rules in your country. In the United States, cars need to be 25 years old or older to be imported easily. This means classic cars from the 1990s are popular choices! By following this rule, your car may not need as many special approvals from agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Choose Your Car and Find a Reliable Exporter

Now comes the fun part—choosing your car! Japanese exporters like BE FORWARD, Japan Partner, and JDM EXPO offer a variety of cool cars. These companies specialize in exporting cars, so they’ll make sure everything is done correctly. Plus, they handle important documents like the Export Certificate and bill of sale.

For example, if you want a Nissan Skyline GT-R, you can search for one on JDM EXPO or Japan Partner to find the right car that fits your style and budget.

Arrange for a Car Inspection and Gather Documents

After picking your car, it’s a good idea to get it inspected to make sure it’s in good condition. Companies like Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center (JEVIC) and Japan Auto Appraisal Institute (JAAI) can perform inspections and send you a report. You’ll also need important documents like the original title, Export Certificate, and bill of sale to clear customs when the car arrives.

Arrange Shipping and Insurance

With the car ready to go, it’s time to arrange shipping. You can choose between Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping, where the car is driven onto the ship, or container shipping, where it’s placed in a container for added protection. Many exporters work with reliable companies like Nippon Express, which handle the entire shipping process.

It’s also smart to buy cargo insurance to protect your car during the trip. For example, if you’re shipping a Mazda RX-7, Nippon Express offers both RoRo and container options, along with tracking so you can follow the car’s journey.

Pay Import Taxes and Duties

Once your car arrives in the U.S., you’ll need to pay import taxes and duties. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) calculates these fees based on the car’s value and type. You’ll also need to submit CBP Form 7501, which is used to document the car’s arrival and help classify it under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).

For instance, if you’re importing a 1995 Toyota Land Cruiser, the CBP uses the HTS to calculate how much you’ll owe in import fees.

Complete Customs Clearance

Once the car arrives at the port, it must go through customs clearance. While you can do this yourself, many people choose to work with a customs broker. Customs brokers help with paperwork, fee payments, and the inspection process, which can make everything go faster.

For example, a customs broker could help your Nissan Silvia S15 pass through inspection smoothly by submitting all the required forms and paying fees on your behalf.

Make Modifications and Register the Car

Before driving your new car, you may need to make some adjustments to meet local safety and emission standards. Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to see what’s needed. After any adjustments are done, you can register your car with the DMV to receive your license plate.

For example, a Honda Civic Type R might need minor adjustments to the headlights or an added catalytic converter to meet EPA and DMV standards. Once it passes, you can complete registration and take your car for a spin!

Summary: Importing a 1995 Nissan Skyline GT-R

Imagine you’re importing a 1995 Nissan Skyline GT-R. Since it’s over 25 years old, it qualifies under the EPA and NHTSA exemptions. You work with JDM EXPO to buy the car and get a JEVIC inspection. You arrange for shipping with Nippon Express and prepare to pay import taxes based on the HTS classification. A customs broker helps clear customs smoothly, and you register the car after minor modifications. Now, you’re ready to enjoy driving your GT-R on U.S. roads!