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Used Car Import Rules for China

Used-vehicle imports are restricted. Check your eligibility with the destination authority before sourcing or shipping a car from Japan.

Discuss eligibility

China Import Regulations

Used-vehicle imports are restricted here. Do not purchase or arrange shipping until the importer has confirmed a lawful permit or exception.

Mainland China's published automobile trade policy prohibits imports of used cars and right-hand-drive cars through ordinary trade. Do not treat this destination as a routine used-car export market.

Check before bidding

Only proceed if the importer supplies written confirmation of a specific lawful exception from the competent Chinese authority before sourcing.

Check the official guidance Understand import costs
Documents Required
Export deregistration evidence, a commercial invoice and shipping documents are commonly needed. Destination authorities may require additional paperwork. An auction sheet is available only for auction-sourced vehicles.

This is a planning guide, not customs or legal advice. Requirements and shipping schedules can change; confirm them for the exact vehicle before committing to purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions — China

Can I import any used Japanese car to China?
Export from Japan does not guarantee import or road registration in China. Check the vehicle's age, specification, approval pathway and the importer's eligibility with the destination authority before bidding.
How long does shipping from Japan to China take?
Transit varies by departure port, shipping method, vessel schedule, transfers and destination clearance. We provide a route-specific estimate when a vehicle and port are known; it is not a guaranteed delivery date.
What is the total landed cost of importing from Japan?
Allow for the vehicle price, our agreed service fee, inland transport, any requested preparation, export documents and ocean freight. Insurance, destination taxes, port charges, inspection and registration may be separate. The written estimate identifies known items and exclusions before you approve a purchase.
Do I need to be present in Japan to buy?
You can send your requirements and approve a vehicle remotely. Available inspection depends on the vehicle and location. The destination importer remains responsible for local customs, approval and registration unless a separate local service is agreed.
How do I pay safely?
Payment instructions, currency, timing and any refund terms are confirmed in the written transaction documents. Verify the beneficiary details through an independent contact channel before sending a transfer; do not rely on a changed email alone.
What documents come with the vehicle?
The document set depends on the vehicle and route. It commonly includes export deregistration evidence, a commercial invoice and a bill of lading. Auction sheets and additional inspection records are supplied when available and agreed for that vehicle.

Other export destinations

KenyaSouth AfricaUnited KingdomUnited StatesCanadaAustraliaNew ZealandUnited Arab EmiratesThailandMalaysiaSingaporePhilippinesTaiwanHong Kong

Confirm eligibility for China first

If you have an applicable import permit or exemption, send its details and the vehicle specification for review before sourcing.

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