How to Import Japanese Vehicles

The vehicle purchasing process may be a time filled with excitement and anticipation. The anticipation increases when the vehicle must be transported directly from a remote location. The vehicle import requirements are heavily influenced by the reorganization of customs practices after Sept. 11, 2001. The documentation required to successfully import a vehicle to the United States from Japan calls for detailed information on all elements of the transaction. The purchaser and the exporter share in the responsibility of eliminating any delays in the shipment process.

Instructions

1

Locate a certified Japanese auto dealer or a domestic Japanese auto auction service. Look for information on these companies on numerous import-export auto industry websites. Or visit your local public library for specific business directories. Research an organization by contacting the National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan (www.kokusen.go.jp/ncac_index_e.html).

2

Complete a pro forma invoice for customs. A seller may generate this invoice and fax it to you before the sale of the vehicle. This document should display vehicle specifications and detailed information about the transaction. You must sign this form and fax it back to the shipper.

3

Purchase your vehicle using a bank wire transfer. The preferred import-export method of payment is wire transfer transaction. You may use a direct transfer of funds from an existing bank account. You may be asked to send a small deposit before the vehicle is loaded for shipping. The balance may be requested after you receive a mailed packet containing the shipment documents for the vehicle.

4

Ship the vehicle. The dealer/auction service will place the vehicle on a commercial vessel for delivery to your location. This process is known as an FOB or Free On Board and represents the fulfillment of the shipper's obligation per the previously generated invoice. The shipper will then send a packet by mail containing the vehicle paperwork and all documents pertaining to the sale.

5

Pay the respective import duties necessary for the release of the vehicle from customs. As of 2010, the duty owed for automobiles imported into the United States is 2.5 percent of the vehicle purchase price.

6

Complete DOT form HS-7 and EPA form 3520-1 to verify compliance with U.S. emission standards. These forms must accompany the transaction invoice and vehicle documentation and will be subject to evaluation by customs officials. The information will be inspected at the vehicle point of entry. The Department of Agriculture specifies that the undercarriage of all vehicles imported into the country remain free from dirt and debris. Arrangements for cleaning or removal of debris should be made before shipment.

7

Hire a shipping agent to handle port of call/customs requirements. Contact information for shipping agent may be found on the Internet or in the local phone directory.

8

Register the vehicle with your local vehicle licensing office. These locations may be found via website or in the local phone directory. The documentation generated by the initial sale along with customs information may be needed for successful registration.