How to Buy Japanese Used Cars From Japan

Buying Japanese used cars from Japan can take two forms: buying from an established exporter or buying directly from a supplier in Japan. The first way entails some risk of being defrauded by the exporter, the second way requires researching and ensuring the car meets U.S. regulations for importing used cars.

Through an Established Exporter

The easiest way to buy a used car from Japan is to go through an established used car importer/exporter. You will find any number of such businesses listed online. First decide if you will pay by credit card (thereby giving your purchase a little more security, but limiting the number of exporters) or by wire transfer. Also check the regulations of your country for automobiles and compare this to the model you wish to purchase: the more the model has to be modified to meet the regulations, the higher the purchase price will be. Once you've decided, contact the dealer and send a request. You will be required to complete certain paperwork and invoices.

Buying from Japan

Buying a used car from Japan on your own, without the aid of an established importer, is going to be difficult for three reasons: trust is a major business issue in Japan, language barriers complicate transactions, and the different ways of doing business in Japan will be unfamiliar. Overcome the trust issue by dealing either with a "kobushiki gaisya" or "yuugen gaisya." These two types of companies are established and publicly traded, hence their dealings are a matter of public record. Check that the company has a registration number listed with the Foreign Trade Chamber, confirming that they sell cars online. No matter who you buy from, expect to pay 100 percent up front before you get the car.

Getting the Car Home

Once you have selected the car, you will need to pay for it and get it home. How you pay for the car will depend on who you are buying from and your resources. You will need a deregistration certificate from the previous owner proving the car was sold by him. Also, contact your local government offices and get any import documentation and pay any required taxes.